Latchford St James CofE Primary School Nursery

Puddle suits, wellies and outdoor exploration give this nursery its character. At Latchford St James CofE Primary School on Old Road in Warrington, children combine activities they choose themselves with learning guided by adults. The nursery belongs to a Church of England primary school, whose Christian ethos gives families an important part of its identity to consider.

For the September 2026 intake, children qualified by turning three by 31 August 2026. A class teacher and three teaching assistants make up the nursery team. Ofsted judged the school's early years provision Good at the inspection on 18 and 19 October 2022; that judgement covers early years within the school rather than a separately inspected nursery.

Exploration shapes the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) provision here: children start activities, learn alongside other children and adults, and take part in tasks directed by staff. The curriculum is adjusted around children's interests and needs, so their own choices have a place alongside planned teaching.

Outside learning continues through the session rather than being confined to a morning break. Children explore the outdoor environment wearing wellies and puddle suits, including in wet weather. Outdoor provision is part of the learning day, rather than simply a pause between indoor activities. The Latchford Learning Bucket List also spans Nursery and Reception, giving the two stages a shared programme of experiences.

Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised provides the daily phonics programme, beginning in Nursery. Early writing has a practical emphasis too. Since autumn 2025, the nursery focus has been on preparation for writing rather than expecting children to write their names. Children develop control of small and larger movements, coordinate hands with what they see, copy shapes and practise using both hands together, including when cutting. These are the building blocks for handling writing tools. At home, families are encouraged to share stories and books, and practise counting or spotting numbers while out and about, extending learning into everyday routines.

In October 2022, early years children enjoyed attending and became comfortable quickly in an organised setting with supportive adults. Identification of SEND was effective in early years, and children with additional needs could participate in the school's provision. Safety systems also covered the youngest children, with trained staff alert to potential harm.

Families can contact the SEND coordinator at send@latchfordstjames.co.uk. Parents can also arrange conversations with class teachers through the office about learning or behaviour, giving concerns a direct route to staff.

Snack is prepared within the nursery classroom. Children can bring a healthy snack from home, but crisps, sweets, biscuits and cakes are excluded. Families should also send a water bottle. Meals are prepared on site, while packed lunches are another option under the school's healthy food rules. Independence matters alongside eating: parents are encouraged to help children manage lunch, clothing and their belongings themselves.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate application through the normal Reception admissions process, handled by Warrington Borough Council, and meet the applicable deadline. Treat that application as a distinct step from joining the nursery.

Preparation for the change includes a New to Reception meeting and starting-school resources, including Steps to Starting School PACEY. These support families with the move; they do not secure admission.

The morning pattern runs from 8:45am to 11:45am for children attending for 15 hours. The all-day pattern runs from 8:45am to 3:20pm for the 30-hour arrangement. Parents who qualify for 30 hours of funded childcare can use the all-day pattern Monday to Friday. Eligibility is checked through Childcare Choices.

Nursery applications go to the school office or latchford_primary@sch.warrington.gov.uk. Visits can be arranged by calling 01925 634967. For nursery wraparound care, contact the office: the standard before-and-after-school offer applies from Reception onwards. Refer to the school for current charges.