Frequently Asked Questions for Families | Nursery and Preschool | St Swithun’s School, Winchester

St Swithun’s Nursery and Preschool offer a warm, inspiring and high-quality early years environment where young children are given the very best start to their educational journey. Caring for children from 9 months to 4 years, including a preschool for the three terms before Reception, our setting provides a calm and happy foundation in which children feel safe, confident and ready to learn. In safe, supportive spaces we ‘light the way’ for learning through play and discovery. Our bespoke ‘Explorers’ Cabin’ offers a unique learning environment for specialist lessons for nursery and preschool children, and extends the opportunities already provided by the spacious facilities in our Early Years rooms and adjoining courtyard.  

Rooted in the school’s core values of Caritas, Humilitas and Sinceritas, our nursery and preschool place nurture, wellbeing and positive relationships at the heart of everything we do. We believe that when children feel secure, known and valued, they thrive. 

Our Philosophy  

The early years are a vital time in shaping children’s confidence, curiosity and attitudes to learning. We gently guide children as they begin to explore the world, helping them discover what sparks their interest. We focus on:  

• Emotional wellbeing and strong, trusting relationships  

• Learning through play, exploration and discovery  

• Supporting independence, resilience and self-belief  

• Creating joyful experiences that encourage a lifelong love of learning  

Our aim is for every child to grow in confidence and curiosity, developing the skills and attitudes they need for school and beyond.  

Babies and Toddlers  

For our youngest children, nurturing care and emotional security are paramount. Our thoughtfully designed spaces are calm, welcoming and reassuring, allowing babies and toddlers to form secure attachments and explore the world at their own pace.  

• Responsive, attentive care from experienced practitioners  

• Consistent routines that support comfort and confidence  

• Sensory rich play promoting early communication, movement and curiosity  

• Time for rest, comfort and gentle interactions  

These early experiences provide the foundations for learning, communication and independence.  

Nursery and Preschool  

As children grow, we gently encourage greater independence, confidence and social awareness. Learning remains play based and exploratory, becoming more collaborative and appropriately challenging while always respecting each child’s individual development. Emotional wellbeing continues to guide our approach at every stage.  

The Preschool Year  

Our preschool offers a carefully planned transition into school life. Through age-appropriate structure, growing independence and a continued emphasis on play and discovery, children are prepared positively and confidently for Reception while retaining the joy and creativity of early childhood. Preschool runs all year round, with specialist teachers working with the children during term-time only and term-time only attendance is also possible. Working in Partnership with Families  

We value close partnerships with parents and carers and recognise them as children’s first educators. Open communication, shared observations and regular dialogue ensure continuity between home and nursery, allowing each child to be supported as an individual within a strong and caring community. Together, we walk alongside each child, offering consistent encouragement and shared guidance at every stage of their early years journey. 

Looking Forward  

St Swithun’s Nursery and Preschool provide a seamless and nurturing start to school life. Girls move up into Reception feeling secure, confident and enthusiastic about learning, ready to take their next steps as capable, curious and kind individuals.