Business Details
Your Child's First Step in Education
Established in 1895, Horton St. Michaels First School & Nursery is a voluntary controlled Church of England institution nestled in the Staffordshire Moorlands. Our school fosters a nurturing environment where creativity, curiosity, and Christian values underpin every aspect of learning. With a focus on outdoor education, we utilise our woodland, wildlife pond, and allotment to deliver hands-on experiences that ignite a lifelong love of learning. Our team of dedicated professionals tailors teaching methods to individual needs, ensuring each child thrives academically, socially, and emotionally. As part of the Staffordshire University Academies Trust, we benefit from collaborative partnerships while maintaining our unique rural identity.Our vision, rooted in John 10:10, empowers children to live life in all its fullness through resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to stewardship. We pride ourselves on strong community ties, evidenced by our active Friends group and partnerships with local organisations. Our Ofsted-rated provision ensures high standards across early years, key stages 1 and 2, and our SEND support reflects our inclusive ethos. With a rich history and forward-looking approach, we prepare children for future academic stages while celebrating their individuality within a Christ-centred community.
Services
Nursery Education
Reception Class
Key Stage 1
Key Stage 2
Outdoor Learning
SEND Support
After-School Club
Forest School Activities
Christian Education
Residential Trips
Highlights and features
- We offer immersive outdoor learning in woodland and wildlife habitats.
- Our Christian values nurture character development alongside academic excellence.
- Experienced staff provide tailored support for individual learning needs.
- Strong community partnerships enhance educational and social opportunities.
- We prepare children for future schools through holistic, experiential teaching.
What people say
Dedicated staff
Happy children
Strong community ties
Outdoor learning
Welcoming atmosphere
Services
Nursery Education
Our nursery provision caters for children aged 3-4 years, offering structured learning through play-based activities. We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage framework while incorporating outdoor exploration and Christian values. Small class sizes ensure individual attention and smooth transition into Reception.
Outdoor Learning
Daily outdoor sessions utilise our woodland, wildlife pond, and allotment for hands-on education. Children develop practical skills through den-building, fire-lighting, and nature studies while meeting curriculum requirements in a natural setting.
SEND Support
Our dedicated SENCO provides tailored support for children with special educational needs. Individual learning plans, specialist equipment, and targeted interventions ensure all pupils access the curriculum and achieve their full potential.
After-School Club
We offer supervised after-school care until 5:30 PM, featuring structured activities and homework support. The club provides a safe environment for social development while accommodating working parents' schedules.
Residential Trips
Year 4 pupils participate in a two-night residential trip to Standon Bowers, engaging in team-building activities like caving, climbing, and archery. These trips foster independence, resilience, and peer collaboration.
People
Mrs Rebecca Walker
Executive Headteacher
Mrs Walker leads our school with over 15 years experience in primary education. She champions outdoor learning and Christian values, ensuring every child receives personalised attention within our nurturing environment.
Lesley Mellor
SENCO
As Special Educational Needs Coordinator, Lesley creates individualised support plans and oversees inclusive practices. With specialist training in SEND provision, she ensures all children access our curriculum effectively.
Questions
What age groups do you cater for?
We accept children aged 3 to 9 years, covering nursery through Year 4.
Is your curriculum faith-based?
As a Church of England school, Christian values underpin our curriculum and daily activities.
What outdoor facilities do you offer?
Our grounds include woodland, a wildlife pond, allotment, pirate ship play area, and outdoor learning spaces.
Do you offer after-school care?
Yes, our after-school club provides extended care and enrichment activities until 5:30 PM.
How do you support special educational needs?
Our SENCO provides tailored support, with individualised learning plans and specialist resources.
Are school visits allowed?
We welcome prospective families to visit at any time – please contact our office to arrange.
