Nursery and Pre-school

Ernesettle Community School’s Nursery and Pre-school is a high-quality, happy and caring provision that caters for children from two to four years of age.

The Nursery is the first stage of the Early Years Unit, which offers 24 places for 2-year-old children. The next phase of the Early Years Unit is the Pre-school, which is divided into two classes, offering 64 places for 3 and 4-year-old children. The wide variety of resources and activities offered are planned to suit the age group and cover all seven areas of development outlined by the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum. We focus on learning through play and carefully monitor each child’s individual needs through our ‘Key Worker’ system. Getting to know children is really important to us as this means that we will know their individual learning needs. We will always engage and work with Parents/Carers to ensure we support their learning and education.

We actively promote learning by creating enjoyable experiences. A stimulating environment is essential for children to have fun, socialise and learn. We take time to carefully consider the environment and activities to ensure they are inviting and interesting for our children. All learning and educational activities are underpinned by the aim to ensure children are well equipped with the skills and understanding needed for their first steps into Reception.

Key Workers

In order to meet the individual needs of all children, the Early Years Unit assigns a Key Worker to each child when they enter the setting.

A Key Worker will help each child to become familiar with the provision and to feel confident and safe within it. They will meet the needs of each child in their care and respond sensitively to their feelings, ideas and behaviour. The Key Worker will endeavour to make close links with the Parents/Carers of their key children to ensure that each child is being cared for appropriately and in line with the wishes of each family.

Session Details

In Nursery and Pre-school, Qualified Early Years Practitioners and Teaching and Learning Assistants, provide a tailored and professional education for all children. Children attend for fifteen funded hours per week (either 5 mornings or 5 afternoons) during school terms.

Nursery and Pre-school sessions are split into:

Morning Session: 8.30am – 11.30am

Afternoon Session: 12.15pm – 3.15pm

We also offer Parents/Carers the opportunity to purchase additional sessions should they wish to do so. In addition, Pre-school children may be eligible for 30 hours funding. If you would like more information on Early Years funding please contact the service below or our Family Support Advisor, Kelly Powell on 01752 201177.