Little Hearts Nursery at Sacred Heart School

A group welcome, time for children’s own ideas and lunch in the main school hall give Little Hearts a recognisable rhythm. This is Sacred Heart School’s on-site nursery in Wadhurst, part of an independent Catholic primary school. Its N0, N1 and N2 groups cater for children aged two, three and four respectively, with N2 the pre-Reception year.

Catholic life includes the youngest children: in June 2026, nursery children prepared the prayer focus for the Feast of Sacred Heart liturgy and led the singing. Families of any faith, or none, can join, provided they support the school’s Christian ethos and values.

At 9am, children gather for a welcome before moving between adult-directed activities and play they choose themselves. Snack comes at 10.20am; an 11.50am story closes the morning. Those staying for lunch eat in the main school hall at noon, then return to learning and play until 3.25pm. The sequence gives children regular shared moments alongside opportunities to pursue their own interests.

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) brings together language, movement and emotional development with early maths, literacy, creative expression and discovery of the world. Staff plan around each child’s development and interests, using observations during play to decide what comes next. Topics are sent home each term, giving parents something concrete to talk about with their child.

In March 2025, ISI found that early-years children gained confidence and skills through a combination of guided activities and independent play. Conversation helped them explain feelings and needs; letters and sounds supported emerging reading and writing. A garden centre role-play area brought pretend money into play. Outdoors, the nursery equipment includes bikes and trikes, adding a physical counterpoint to classroom activities.

The March 2025 inspection also recommended more consistent stretch and challenge across all subjects and year groups. That school-wide action includes the youngest year groups, so the balance between following interests and extending learning remains a useful consideration.

Every child has a key person who helps them become familiar with nursery, develops a steady relationship and works with parents on individual care. Parent and toddler sessions offer younger children a chance to become accustomed to the setting with a parent close by. This makes familiarity part of the preparation for joining.

Staffing ratios are at least one adult to eight children aged three and four, and one to five for under-threes. A qualified team supports the oversight of each session. Communication includes a Home/School Book carried in the red book bag, weekly emailed school news and a consultation each term. Parents also receive a written development check between ages two and three.

Snack is a social occasion, with adults and children sitting together. Choices include vegetables, fruit, toast and cheese, with milk or water; children can reach their water bottles throughout the day. A hot lunch from Pollen is optional. Lunch provision includes vegetarian choices, and families can discuss food intolerances with the catering team.

For children with additional needs, staff organise an individual programme with parents and, where appropriate, outside professionals. Nursery has wheelchair access and an accessible toilet. Families should discuss individual requirements before entry: admission depends on the school being able to meet the child’s needs. Where a classroom assistant is required, parents and school seek a partnership to fund that support. In March 2025, early years had a suitable complement of paediatric first aiders.

Nursery attendance gives priority for Reception places, but it does not guarantee a place or trigger automatic transfer. Parents must make a separate application to the school. The school encourages families seeking Reception entry to attend N2 from the start of the academic year, initially for four mornings each week. Treat priority and an offer as separate things.

Preparation for the move also happens through information sharing. A final-term assessment goes to parents and the Reception teacher, helping the next teacher understand the child’s development. That supports continuity of care and learning; it is separate from the admissions decision.

Monday-to-Friday mornings run from 8.30am to noon, afternoons from noon to 3.30pm. A morning can extend through lunch to 1pm, and full days run to 3.30pm. After-school care continues to 6pm Monday to Thursday and 5pm Friday, subject to demand. Sessions must be confirmed half-termly in advance, with a requested minimum of four each week.

Funded entitlement covers up to 15 or 30 hours weekly, depending on eligibility, across 36 weeks. Meals, snacks, consumables and specialised teaching carry additional charges, but these extras are optional during funded hours. Families wishing to provide their own consumables can discuss arrangements with the school. Contact the office for current charges or to arrange a visit: admin@sacredheartwadhurst.org.uk or 01892 783414.

Uniform includes a grey nursery polo shirt and red sweatshirt; outdoor clothing includes wellies. Children are handed over at the nursery side door, collected at the gate at lunchtime and from the side door at day’s end. These distinct collection points matter when arranging who will pick up.