Induction
The Nursery operates a staggered intake to enable the children to become familiar with their new surroundings and gradually gain confidence. We encourage parents to stay with their child for the first few days until they can settle happily. More detailed information regarding starting dates and times is sent out towards the end of June.
Uniform
For practicality and to promote a sense of belonging within the school community, the children are encouraged to wear the nursery uniform which comprises a yellow polo shirt, navy sweatshirt and navy tracksuit bottoms.
It is stocked by R Gordon & Son of 10a Green Street, Carrickfergus, Cuddy’s of Carrickfergus and Gary’s of North Street, Carrickfergus.
Nursery Fund
Each day the children are given a choice of milk, water and a variety of healthy snack options including toast, crackers, cereal and fruit. A voluntary contribution of £2.50 per week is made by parents to the nursery fund to cover this as well as enabling the purchase of items including dough and baking ingredients and small equipment. A birthday cake, car and photograph are provided for each child on his/her special day. The fund is also used to cover all costs for all visitors to the Nursery.
Children’s Belongings
Each child attending the Nursery is given a symbol which is above both his/her cloakroom peg and bathroom peg (where a bag is provided in which to keep a change of clothing). There is also a “pigeonhole” for each child with his/her symbol at the top right hand corner. This system enables parents to find and collect their child’s work easily.
Newsletters
Parents are kept informed by way of monthly newsletters. These outline the topics and areas being focussed on each month and therefore enable parents to reinforce what children are learning in school They also highlight the dates of various events/holidays taking place in the unit and the primary school.
Nursery Unit & Primary School
The Nursery, as part of Whitehead Primary School, is involved as far as possible in all aspects of school life. We attend special assemblies and events and make regular use of the PE hall, interactive whiteboards and school grounds. This ensures that children become familiar with the rest of the school and is of great benefit when they make the transition to Year 1.