Catherine McKinnell, MP for Newcastle North and member of the House of Commons’ Education Select Committee, recently visited Newburn Manor Nursery School following an invitation from Headteacher, Kay Mills, to hear more about the education they provide.

Newburn Manor Nursery is a stand-alone Nursery School, which offers the 15 hours per week of free nursery education available to all 3 and 4-years olds, as well as additional paid-for wraparound care.

Catherine was invited by Kay Mills to discuss the unique offer of Nursery Schools, which are staffed by qualified teachers, following the recent establishment of an All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Nursery Schools and Nursery Classes to champion their work.

The Newburn Manor Nursery headteacher outlined that some 95% of Nursery Schools inspected by Ofsted have been assessed as either ‘outstanding’ or ‘good’, and discussed a number of challenges currently facing the sector during Catherine’s visit.

There are currently around 90 pupils on roll at Newburn Manor Nursery School from across the Outer West area of Newcastle, and it is one of only five stand-alone Nursery Schools in the city – and the only one in Catherine’s constituency.

Catherine said:

‘Nursery Schools like Newburn Manor clearly play a key role in ensuring that our 3 and 4-year olds are able to receive a high-quality nursery education, which gets them ready for school and helps to give them the best possible start in life.

‘But I know there’s a real danger that stand-alone Nursery Schools can sometimes be forgotten about when early years and education policies are developed, and I’m really keen to ensure that the voice of Nursery Schools like Newburn Manor is heard loud and clear.’

Kay Mills, Headteacher at Newburn Manor Nursery School, said:

‘I am pleased to have had the opportunity to meet Catherine and show her the work we do in our Nursery. Our highly qualified staff are committed to providing the highest possible educational experiences for our children.’