Nursery at Wootton St Peter's – Robin Class
Our Nursery and Reception classes are taught in the same setting. Known collectively as 'Robin', they are are the heart of our school, offering a happy, secure and stimulating place where your child can grow, explore and thrive.
Starting in our Nursery means your child has time to settle into school life early. They make friends, get to know their teachers and feel at home in their classroom and outdoor spaces. When it’s time for Reception, they simply carry on their journey in a familiar environment, surrounded by familiar faces – ready to learn with confidence and enthusiasm.
Our Nursery sessions are Monday to Friday; morning sessions run from 8.30am to 11.30am and afternoon sessions are from 11.30am to 2.30pm. This depends whether your child is entitled to 15 or 30 hours funding. Any additional hours are charged at £5.00 per hour. If nappies and wipes aren't supplied by parents there will be a weekly charge of £4.50.
A school meal currently cost £2.90 per day for nursery children, they may choose to bring-in their own packed lunch. They are welcome to have a combination of school or packed lunches if they wish, we just ask that school meals are paid for in advance.
Our highly skilled teachers, Michaela Hicks and Dr Alex Mirrington, and our exceptional teaching assistant, Joe Martin, provide engaging, play-based learning that sparks curiosity and creativity. From early literacy and number skills to building independence and resilience, we nurture every child’s unique talents and help them flourish.
We believe strong relationships with parents and carers are key. From your first visit to our open classroom events, you’ll feel part of our friendly, supportive school community.
With compassion, courage and perseverance at the heart of all we do, your child will leave Little Gems happy, confident and ready for the exciting years ahead.
The practical details
- The Government has just introduced new arrangements around the number of hours children are entitled to and how these are paid for. More information on this will appear here soon.
- You apply to the school for a place at Nursery (this is different to applying for a place in Reception, which is done through the county council).
Why send your child to Nursery?
Sending your child to Nursery offers a strong foundation for their future learning and development. Socially, children benefit from daily interaction with peers, learning essential skills such as sharing, turn-taking, cooperation and empathy. These early friendships not only boost confidence but also create a sense of belonging, making the transition to Reception smoother and less daunting.
Physically, Nursery provides a safe and stimulating environment where children develop both fine and gross motor skills. Through activities like outdoor play, creative arts and hands-on learning, they build coordination, balance, and strength while also fostering healthy habits for active living.
Intellectually, children are introduced to early literacy, numeracy and problem-solving through engaging, play-based activities. They begin to develop curiosity, concentration and resilience, all of which are vital for later academic success. Being in a school-based Nursery also familiarises them with routines, expectations and the physical environment of the school.
When they progress to Reception, they already know the teachers, the layout and many of their classmates. This familiarity allows them to 'hit the ground running', starting school with confidence, enthusiasm and a ready-to-learn mindset.