St Wystans School Information

First steps ...

When your little one first makes the giant leap to 'big school', it's not surprising if you feel a tad anxious. From the security of familiar and well-loved people and things, he or she must leave the nest and meet a new environment with strange faces and a different way of passing the day. Even meal times can present a challenge, from eating with a larger group, to trying food which may be cooked in an unfamiliar way.

A smooth transition ...

St Wystans Nursery School, in the attractive town of Repton near Derby, has many years' experience in integrating new and very young pupils into the rhythms of the school. Fully registered it takes children from two and a half to five years old. Each child is treated as an individual with unique needs and personality, while home comforts such as freshly cooked food, warm, spacious yet cosy classrooms in a self-contained building - right down to immaculately kept toilets - make the transition from life as a toddler to that of a schoolchild as seamless as possible.

In the early years ...

Early education is stimulating and fun, with opportunities for quiet creative play, outdoor games, singing and the chance to try musical instruments, as well as play-oriented learning, all in a caring and nurturing atmosphere which engenders a community spirit and consideration for others.

Later ...

With this sound foundation, the secure, positive and enthusiastic vibe generated by St Wystans is reinforced as children grow and develop. The Lower School, which includes a Kindergarten and two further years to age seven, continues to develop the children's self-confidence with its friendly and happy environment, and now begins to integrate the more formal skills of language and numeracy, especially that of reading, to which it attaches high priority. Complemented by art, music drama, IT and physical activities - including swimming - the education offered by St Wystans manages to achieve high standards almost without the children realising.

Growing up ...

With the confidence gained by their years in the nursery and lower school pupils in the Upper School are ready to take on the more academic type of work that will prepare them for the wide range of secondary education, both independent and state, that's available in Derby and its environs. Specialist teachers for French, music and PE join with the other staff to provide the highest standards achievable, based on a full range of national curriculum subjects, while continuing the emphasis on diversity, creativity and social awareness. Responsibility and leadership qualities are equally developed with the positive role models offered by a Head Boy and Girl, House and Games captains, and prefects. Fun isn't forgotten either, with residential holidays for Year 5 and 6 pupils.

The end result

By the time they leave St Wystan's, pupils will have gained an excellent all-round education, enhanced by the knowledge that each one is valued as an individual and has something to offer. With a solid core of academic subjects, complemented by clubs, concerts, spacious grounds, great food and superb pastoral care from dedicated and well-qualified staff, St Wystans provides firm foundations on which its children can build the rest of their lives.

If you'd like to experience a friendly, enthusiastic and impressive welcome from St Wystan's staff and pupils, contact the school.