St James Nursery opened in September 2019 with places for 2, 3 and 4 year olds.

The Nursery (Caterpillars) operates from our new, purpose built facilities, offering a light, airy and spacious learning environment with free flow access to secure, supervised outdoor areas.

We aim to inspire awe and wonder in our little learners. We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum - a child centred play-based approach to learning.

Children benefit from high staff:child ratios and a caring, nurturing, secure and stimulating environment which recognises the unique talents of every child. Where possible, we take our learning outdoors so children will always need a good pair of wellies!

Opening Hours

The nursery operates from 9am - 3pm on weekdays during school term time.

Families that require longer hours can use our wraparound care which runs before and after school by a quality assured external provider, FISH.  For further details about FISH, please go to our tab on Breakfast Club and After School Club facilities.

To Apply

We are currently considering applications for our Nursery for September 2023.  Parents/Carers have until 2nd May 2023 to send in their completed application and we will notify all parents by 16th June 2023 if your child has successfully obtained a place.

To apply, please download, complete and submit an application form to nursery@dmatschools.org.uk

All applications will be processed in accordance with our Nursery Admissions Policy, a copy of which can be viewed below.

More Information

For more information, please see our nursery information pack and the documents listed below.

Please be aware that if your child attends our Nursery and you decide you no longer require their place, you are required to give us one months notice in writing.  Many thanks

Government Funding Information

When are children eligible?

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3 and 4-year-olds

All 3 and 4-year-olds are eligible for the Early Years Funding from the start of the funding period following their third birthday until they start school (usually at statutory school age – the term following their fifth birthday).

Extended Entitlement for 3 and 4 year olds

A 3 or 4-year-old can get the extended entitlement of up to 1140 hours of funded childcare (30 hours per week, term time) if both parents or lone parent:

• earns at least £115 a week or works more than 16 hours at the National Living Wage (unless you became self-employed less than 12 months ago), or expect to earn at least £111 a week or work more than 16 hours at the National Minimum Wage (unless you became self-employed less than 12 months ago).
• expect to earn at least £61.92 a week if you’re under 18, £84.80 a week if you’re aged 18-20 or £52.80 a week if you’re an apprentice (either under 19 or in the first year of your apprenticeship)