Churchtown Primary School extends its nursery provision to 2-year-olds.

Churchtown Primary School, part of the Endeavour Learning Trust, is taking proactive steps to align with the Government's new initiative to provide free childcare for working parents of two-year-olds. In response, the school is expanding its nursery provision with a focus on supporting the needs of families in the Southport community.

As more working parents find themselves balancing work commitments and childcare, Churchtown Primary School recognises the need for accessible and high-quality childcare services. In response to this demand, the school is introducing a new nursery class, named Snowdrops, scheduled to open in September.

Snowdrops will offer year-round provision, available for 51 weeks per year. It will be specifically designed to cater to the needs of 2-year-olds and supporting parents with the new 15-hour free childcare entitlement from the Government. Additionally, parents have the option to enrol their children for top up sessions to suit their individual needs.

This initiative comes at a crucial time, as research by the Fawcett Society and Totaljobs reveals the significant challenges faced by working mothers due to childcare pressures. With many struggling to find suitable employment that accommodates their childcare needs, the Department for Education's recent announcement to extend childcare entitlements offers a glimmer of hope for working families.

Jinnie Payne, Headteacher of Churchtown Primary School, expressed her enthusiasm for the new childcare provision, stating: "By providing high-quality childcare services, we aim to alleviate the pressures faced by families and ensure that all children have the opportunity to thrive in their early years.

“We have a separate dedicated early years building, including the existing nursery room Buttercups for our 3-4 year-olds and the new Snowdrops room, ensuring a safe and stimulating environment for our youngest learners.

“Qualified nursery staff are committed to supporting our children's development and as they progress through the nursery, ensuring they are well prepared for their transition to Reception class. Over time, we've observed that our nursery pupils tend to excel when they start school, benefitting from their familiarity with the environment and our teaching.”

Churchtown Primary School aims to offer convenience to families by providing a central drop-off point with wrap-around care for nursery aged children from 7:30am - 5:30pm and from 7:30am - 6pm for children from Reception class right through to Year 6 with breakfast and after-school clubs.

The school's commitment to holistic education extends to its outdoor provision, with a beautiful outdoor area that mirrors the adjacent Botanic Gardens and park. Known as 'the school in the park,' Churchtown Primary School provides opportunities for outdoor learning and exploration, building a love for nature from a young age.