Nursery 2025 - 2026

Sandcastles Nursery at Redcastle Family School

Welcome to Our Nursery
Our Nursery offers both full-time and part-time places for children aged 2 to 5 years, supporting them until they move on to Reception. Sessions are available Monday to Friday during term time only, with the option of mornings (8.40am–11.40am), afternoons (12.20pm–3.20pm) or full days (8.40am–3.20pm). We have two nurturing rooms: Tiny Turtles for our 2–3 year olds and Lobsters for our 3–4 year olds, providing stimulating and caring environments where children can learn through play and exploration.

Our Nursery Team
The Nursery is overseen by our Infant Lead, Mrs Paynter, alongside our dedicated part-time teachers, Mrs Beavis and Mrs Thelwell. Our experienced Nursery team also includes Miss Bell, Miss Aust, Miss Robinson, Mrs Wakeling, Mrs Kemp, Miss Peace and Miss Millington, who work closely together to support every child’s individual needs and development.

Learning Through the EYFS
Our curriculum follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Development Matters guidance, supporting children’s learning and development across the seven areas of learning:
Communication and Language,
Physical Development,
Personal, Social and Emotional Development,
Literacy,
Mathematics,
Understanding the World,
Expressive Arts and Design

Through meaningful, child-centred experiences, children are encouraged to explore, investigate and develop key skills both independently and alongside others. We make full use of the wider school environment, including the library, music room, gym, field, mound, courtyard and Forest School areas, giving children exciting opportunities to learn both indoors and outdoors.

Key Person Support
Each child is supported by a designated Key Person who builds a strong relationship with both the child and their family, helping children to feel safe, secure and confident within the setting. This strong partnership supports children’s emotional wellbeing and individual development throughout their nursery journey.

Recording Children’s Progress
We use Tapestry, an online learning journal, to document and celebrate each child’s progress and achievements through observations, photographs and assessments. Tapestry enables parents and carers to share in their child’s learning journey and provides regular insights into their development and experiences at Nursery.

Visiting Our Nursery
We warmly welcome new children, parents and carers to visit our Nursery and experience our nurturing and engaging environment. Visits can be arranged by contacting the school office to book a viewing, where you will have the opportunity to meet our staff and explore our Nursery setting. Nursery application forms are available here or can be collected directly from the school office.