Heaton Dene

Heaton Dene Nursery School and School’s Out first opened in September 1994. The buildings were rebuilt from farm building which had previously housed cattle and other farm implements. It was a great achievement getting planning permission which took 2 ½ years.

The premises are purpose built and consist of three detached buildings which are located on the border of Westhoughton and Blackrod with immediate access to the A6. The nursery is secluded and can be reached by a private drive. There are also parking facilities and disability access.

The nursery itself makes use of four playrooms with another self contained building being used for the out of school club. A large hall provides space for all children to participate in a number of additional activities including dance, drama, P.E. music and children’s productions which take place twice a year.

Our outdoor area is wonderful with a playground, separate soft floor play area for the little ones, climbing frame, slide and swings, balancing beam, football field, planting area and a quiet garden where the children can just sit and relax.

The Ethos & Philosophy of the Nursery

To respect each child as an individual with individual needs
To provide a happy environment where social skills are encouraged and developed
To provide a secure, comfortable and stimulating atmosphere to fulfil the physical, emotional and social needs of each child
To foster a “family atmosphere”, giving each child a “home from home”
To provide a wide range of equipment to cover all aspects of play and activities on a “learning through play” basis
To share children’s achievements both in and out of nursery
To promote ownership and responsibility for each other’s learning; developing life skills and gaining independence
Learning through first-hand experience, discovering the joys of education
To encourage non-violent co-operative play between children
To provide an anti-racist/anti-sexist environment. Encouraging and showing concern for each other and the wider community through a strong sense of Christian values
To develop mutual respect and responsibility between parents and nursery, working together sharing information
To nurture links between nursery, home, church, schools and the local community
To develop each child’s potential by implements an early year’s curriculum, aiming high to achieve each child’s full potential in all aspects of life
To operate an “open door” policy.