St Mary's Childcare Centre was established by the University in 1990 for children of students, university staff and the local community. We have a Customer Service Excellence award in conjunction with the University.
We were awarded a good with outstanding features at our last inspection by Ofsted. A copy can be viewed on our website. We achieved the healthy Early Years award and pride ourselves on continuing to promote a healthy lifestyle.
We have robust policies and procedures in place to ensure all children feel safe and secure and are able to play and learn in a stimulating, welcoming and caring environment. We follow the 'Special Educational Needs and Disability Code of Practice' (SEND) which identifies four broad areas of Special Educational Needs and Disability - Communication and interaction, Cognitive and Learning, Social, Emotional and Mental Health Difficulties and Sensory and/or Physical Needs. We use the Graduated Person Centred Approach.
All our staff are experienced and professionally qualified with some holding degree level qualifications. We have two Early Years Teachers who lead the curriculum - the Early Years Foundation Stage. Each child has a key-worker, who will build excellent relationships with the child and their parents/carers. Parents are encouraged to share information and be actively involved in nursery life. Through daily discussions, parents are able to share any aspects of their child’s development. We also offer 2 parents’ evenings throughout the year.
This setting is registered for Tax Free Childcare.
Who is the service provider
St Mary's Childcare Centre
Where
Address
University of Sunderland
Chester Road
Sunderland
Tyne & Wear
SR1 3SD
There is a drop-off area in front of the University. Public transport is available via Park Lane Bus Station, Railway Station and University Metro Station stop close by.
Accessibility & Inclusion Information
Wheelchair Access - No
There are ramps at entrance and in building, wide doors and disabled toilets, fire exits on level ground and ramps out.
Special Needs - No
We have two Special Educational Needs Coordinators Trudy Burton and Kayleigh Arnett. Trudy and Kayleigh's role involves ensuring the nursery and staff are up to date with changes to legislation and best practise regarding children with SEN, liaising with other professionals or agencies, supporting children and families in every aspect of child development and advising and supporting colleagues.
Dietary Needs - No
We have an on-site kitchen and our dedicated catering staff provide nutritious, varied home cooked meals and caters for all dietary requirements.
Cultural Provisions - No
We provide an inclusive environment. Multicultural dolls, jigsaws, books, dressing-up clothes, etc. Equal Opportunity Policy and Co-ordinator.
