Business Details
Trusted Nursery School in Larne for Early Childhood Education
St. Anthony's Nursery School has been dedicated to providing a nurturing and secure environment for early childhood education since its establishment. Our team of experienced educators focuses on holistic development through the six areas of the Northern Ireland Pre-School Curriculum, ensuring each child's social, emotional, physical, cognitive, and language needs are met. We maintain strong partnerships with local primary schools to facilitate smooth transitions to Primary One while working closely with families to create a supportive learning ecosystem. Our curriculum is delivered through engaging, play-based activities that foster independence and a lifelong love of learning. The school's commitment to safeguarding and child protection is paramount, with policies in place to ensure every child's safety and wellbeing.Our staff undergo continuous professional development to maintain high educational standards, and we actively involve parents as partners in their child's educational journey. The school's eco-friendly initiatives demonstrate our dedication to environmental awareness from an early age. With two dedicated classrooms and a team of qualified professionals, we provide structured learning sessions from 9:00am to 1:30pm. Our inclusive approach welcomes children of all faiths and backgrounds, promoting respect and understanding. The school's motto 'Shine, Smile, Succeed' reflects our aspiration for every child to thrive in our care.
Services
Nursery Education
Curriculum Activities
Transition Support
Eco Schools Program
Admissions Guidance
Highlights and features
- We provide holistic early years education through play-based learning
- Our staff maintain strong partnerships with local primary schools
- We deliver the Northern Ireland Pre-School Curriculum through engaging activities
- Our inclusive approach welcomes children of all faiths and backgrounds
- We prioritise child safety with robust safeguarding policies
Services
Nursery Education
Our nursery education program provides structured learning for children aged 2-4 through play-based activities. The curriculum focuses on developing social skills, emotional intelligence, and foundational academic concepts. Qualified educators create individualised learning plans to support each child's unique development journey.
Curriculum Activities
We deliver the six areas of the Northern Ireland Pre-School Curriculum through engaging, hands-on activities. Our program includes creative arts, physical development, literacy and numeracy foundations, and environmental awareness. Activities are designed to stimulate curiosity and foster a love of learning.
Transition Support
Our transition program prepares children for successful entry to primary education. We work closely with local schools to ensure continuity in learning and development. The program includes familiarisation visits, parent workshops, and tailored support for individual needs.
Eco Schools Program
We integrate eco-friendly practices into daily learning through our participation in the Eco Schools program. Children engage in gardening activities, recycling initiatives, and nature exploration to develop environmental awareness from an early age.
Admissions Guidance
Our admissions team provides comprehensive guidance for parents through the enrolment process. We offer open days, individual consultations, and detailed information about our curriculum, policies, and transition programs to help families make informed decisions.
People
Mrs Marie-Claire McIlroy
Principal
Experienced educational leader with extensive nursery school expertise. Oversees curriculum implementation and staff development while maintaining strong community partnerships. Committed to creating nurturing learning environments for young children.
Mrs McCormick
Teacher
Qualified nursery educator with specialist training in early years development. Focuses on creative learning approaches and individualised support for children's educational journeys.
Miss Wright
Teaching Assistant
Supports classroom activities with emphasis on child engagement and social skills development. Trained in early childhood care and educational support practices.
Mrs Gamble
Teacher
Experienced nursery professional specialising in play-based learning methodologies. Develops innovative activities that align with curriculum requirements and children's developmental needs.
Mrs O'lynn
Teaching Assistant
Supports classroom instruction with focus on individual attention and emotional wellbeing. Trained in child protection and early years safeguarding procedures.
Questions
What age range do you accept?
We accept children aged 2 to 4 years old for our full-time nursery program.
What are your operating hours?
Our nursery day runs from 9:00am to 1:30pm, Monday to Friday during term time.
How do you support transition to primary school?
We work closely with local primary schools and provide transition visits, parent workshops, and individualised support plans.
What curriculum do you follow?
We deliver the six areas of the Northern Ireland Pre-School Curriculum through play-based learning activities.
How do you involve parents?
We actively engage parents through regular communication, family events, and partnership meetings.
What safety measures are in place?
We maintain strict safeguarding policies, staffed by trained professionals with up-to-date child protection certifications.
