Business Details
28 Years
experience
Trusted Nursery Care and Early Education in Leyland
St Catherines Nursery was established in 1998 as an independent, non-profit-making organisation dedicated to providing high-quality early years education and care. Our nursery, located in Leyland, Lancashire, operates within a primary school building while maintaining its independent status. We pride ourselves on fostering a warm, nurturing environment where children aged two to five thrive through structured learning and creative exploration. Our team of experienced professionals, with over 150 years of collective experience, ensures consistency and strong relationships that support children's confidence and self-esteem. As a registered charity, our focus remains on passion and educational excellence rather than financial gain.We maintain an 'Outstanding' Ofsted rating, reflecting our commitment to delivering exceptional care in a home-from-home setting. Regular parent partnerships and open communication channels enhance our ability to meet individual children's needs. Our curriculum integrates Forest School principles and tailored learning journals to track progress. We offer flexible attendance options, including limited free part-time places, and provide comprehensive support for children with special educational needs. Our reputation is built on decades of dedicated service to the local community, ensuring every child develops essential life skills in a safe, stimulating environment.
Services
Early Years Curriculum
Forest School
Parent Partnership
SEND Support
Home Learning
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- We are a registered charity focused on passion over profit
- Our staff have over 150 years of collective early years experience
- Rated Outstanding by Ofsted for educational quality and care standards
- We provide a home-from-home environment with consistent staff support
- Specialist SEND support and tailored learning programmes available
Associations and certifications
- Ofsted
What people say
Friendly and welcoming staff
Happy environment to learn
Excellent staff support
Child's communication improved
Creative learning opportunities
Services
Early Years Curriculum
Our structured early years curriculum follows EYFS guidelines while incorporating creative learning through play. Children engage in age-appropriate activities that develop literacy, numeracy, and social skills. Specialist teaching methods include learning journals and forest school experiences to enhance development.
Forest School
Forest School sessions promote nature-based learning in our purpose-built outdoor environment. Children develop physical coordination, risk assessment skills, and environmental awareness through hands-on activities. Qualified instructors guide exploration while encouraging independence and teamwork in natural settings.
Parent Partnership
We maintain open communication channels with parents through regular updates, home visits, and learning journals. Parents receive detailed progress reports and can participate in nursery activities. This collaborative approach ensures consistent support for each child's development both at home and in the nursery setting.
SEND Support
Our qualified SENCO provides tailored support for children with special educational needs. Individualised learning plans are developed in collaboration with parents and external specialists. The nursery environment and staff training ensure all children receive appropriate care and developmental opportunities.
Home Learning
Home learning initiatives maintain educational continuity between nursery and home environments. Parents receive guidance on supporting their child's development through everyday activities. The programme includes home visits and transition support to ensure smooth progression between different learning stages.
People
Helen Brockliss
Nursery Manager
Helen Brockliss has over 25 years of early years education experience. As Nursery Manager, she oversees daily operations and maintains Ofsted standards. Her leadership focuses on staff development and curriculum innovation.
Jane Handyside
Deputy Manager
Jane Handyside brings extensive childcare expertise as Deputy Manager. She supports curriculum delivery and staff training while maintaining strong parent relationships. Her approach prioritises individual child needs within group settings.
Emma Rawlinson
SENCO
Emma Rawlinson specialises in special educational needs as our designated SENCO. She develops individualised learning plans and coordinates support for children with additional needs. Her expertise ensures inclusive practices across all nursery activities.
Questions
What age range do you accept?
We accept children aged two to five years old.
Is your nursery Ofsted registered?
Yes, we are graded Outstanding by Ofsted since 2022.
Do you offer part-time places?
We provide limited free part-time places alongside full-day care options.
How do you support special educational needs?
Our qualified SENCO creates individualised plans with parent collaboration and specialist input when required.
Are parents involved in nursery activities?
Yes, we encourage active parent participation through regular communication and shared learning initiatives.
What outdoor learning opportunities exist?
Forest School sessions provide structured outdoor learning experiences in our purpose-built natural environment.
