At St James the Great CofE Primary School & Nursery, we are delighted to offer a warm, nurturing and stimulating Nursery environment that supports children as they begin their educational journey. Our provision is designed to help children grow in confidence, curiosity and independence through high‑quality early years experiences.

Our Nursery Offer

Who Can Attend?

• Children aged 3 and 4 years old
• Both funded and fee‑paying places are available

Session Times

We offer flexible sessions to support family needs:

• Morning Session: 08:30 – 11:30
• Lunch Session: 11:30 – 12:30
• Afternoon Session: 12:30 – 15:30
• All‑day Sessions: 08:30 – 15:30

Funding and Fees

We offer a range of funding options:

Depending on your child’s date of birth and your family circumstances, you may be entitled to receive 15- or 30-hours funding per week for 38 weeks a year. The following offers are available in Essex:

15 Hours Free Childcare for All 3‑ and 4‑Year‑Olds

All children aged 3 and 4 can receive 15 funded hours per week, starting the term after their third birthday. You do not need to apply separately — your childcare provider will arrange this for you.

30 Hours Free Childcare for Working Parents

Some working parents may be eligible for up to 30 hours per week for all eligible 3‑ and 4‑year‑olds

Parents must apply in advance through Best Start in Life, and eligibility codes must be renewed every three months.

Additional Sessions

Families can purchase extra sessions if additional hours are needed, subject to availability.
The hourly costs are:

• £6.00 per hour for 3 and 4 year olds

Our Nursery Curriculum

Our curriculum is based on the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and supports learning through purposeful play, exploration and positive relationships.

We focus on:

• Communication and language
• Physical development
• Personal, social and emotional development
• Early literacy and numeracy
• Creative and imaginative play
• Outdoor learning and exploration

Children learn through a balance of adult‑led and child‑initiated activities, supported by skilled practitioners who understand early development and wellbeing.

What Makes Our Nursery Special?

• A caring, Christian ethos that nurtures every child
• Experienced early years staff who know each child as an individual
• A bright, welcoming indoor space with high‑quality resources
• Secure outdoor learning areas
• Strong transition into Reception
• Close partnerships with parents and carers
• Access to whole‑school facilities and experiences

Snacks, Lunch & Practical Information

• Children attending morning sessions will receive a healthy snack.
• All‑day children may bring a packed lunch or book a school meal through Arbor.
• Children will need:
  • A named water bottle
  • Spare clothes
  • Appropriate outdoor clothing (coat, wellies, sunhat depending on season)

How to Apply

Parents can register their child for a Nursery place at any time.

To request an admission form please click here or arrange a visit please contact the school office.