Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School Nursery

Storytelling, early writing and outdoor learning give Sacred Heart’s nursery its character. Helicopter Stories and Drawing the Write Way are named parts of its approach, with language development given a clear emphasis. This is the school’s own nursery class on Springfield Road in Wigan, within a Catholic primary setting whose curriculum connects learning with faith and respect for others.

Early learning puts communication alongside the beginnings of reading and writing. The curriculum follows the Early Years requirements; for parents, the nursery’s named priorities mean attention to vocabulary, expressing ideas and developing familiarity with written language. Helicopter Stories, Drawing the Write Way and phonics development give those priorities specific forms rather than leaving them as broad ambitions.

Choosing time includes interactive games from Phonics Play. Children therefore encounter phonics through games as well as the nursery’s wider literacy work. The class page also directs families to Book Trust and Storyline Online for stories and related activities, giving parents concrete resources for sharing an interest in books at home.

Outdoor learning continues in different weather conditions, so a suitable coat belongs in the nursery kit. Learning is not confined indoors. In March 2023, Ofsted found that early-years children were developing varied vocabulary and language, while their attentive listening and behaviour allowed learning to proceed without disruption.

Communication has a direct route: the nursery class uses nursery@sacredheart.wigan.sch.uk, while urgent messages go to enquiries@admin.sacredheart.wigan.sch.uk. Keeping those routes distinct helps families direct a routine class query or a time-sensitive message to the appropriate team. A Nursery Induction Meeting resource also appears on the class page.

Beyond the class teacher, the school’s support structure includes a Learning Mentor and Children and Families Support Workers. All staff have undertaken some Trauma Informed Schools training, with the school’s approach aimed at addressing emotional and mental health difficulties early. Parents with questions about additional needs can contact the school SENDCO; the SEND page also points families towards Wigan Council’s SEND Local Offer.

The school has its own kitchen, run by Local Kitchen, with a fortnightly menu rotation and fruit, vegetables and salad offered daily. Its meals guidance directs families to the office about dietary requirements, including medical conditions, allergies and religious needs. These are school-level arrangements to discuss when planning a child’s care.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Families must make a separate Reception application through the normal admissions process and meet its deadline. The school’s admissions page directs parents to Wigan Council’s primary admissions route. Treat that application as a separate task from joining the nursery.

School tours can be arranged for parents before admission, providing an opportunity to discuss concerns. Contact the office on 01942 231478 or at enquiries@admin.sacredheart.wigan.sch.uk for a visit or nursery enquiry.

A white polo shirt with a school jumper or sweatshirt is optional for nursery. Otherwise, clothing should suit play, with manageable fastenings and shoes children can put on independently. Label clothing clearly and send a weather-appropriate coat: these practical choices support participation outdoors and everyday independence.