Kindergarten

A message from the Head of the Lower School, Mrs Emma Stanhope

Welcome to St Mary’s Kindergarten Colchester!

We are a conveniently located private Kindergarten near Colchester, Essex. The Kindergarten is part of St Mary’s school for girls and is based at our Lower School site.

We offer an outstanding all-round pre-school education, amazing facilities and flexible childcare. The Kindergarten also provides girls with a smooth transition through to our Lower School, where we continue to provide a strong academic and all-round education with outstanding pastoral care.

St Mary’s received the top rating of excellent by the Independent School Inspectorate (ISI) in February 2023.

A great introduction to learning at St Mary’s Kindergarten Colchester

Children can start at St Mary’s Kindergarten Colchester in the term they turn three. The girls can then progress to our Preparatory (Reception) Class in the September after they turn four.

During their time at the pre-school, we introduce children to learning and give them a solid preparation for starting school. This is both academically and socially, so they can make the most of all the opportunities school life brings.

We have a high ratio of staff to children. Specialist teachers run sessions such as French, Music and Ballet.

Well-rounded pre-school education at St Mary’s Kindergarten Colchester

We believe in providing a well-rounded experience. Children take part in a range of activities such as PE, Forest School, music, ballet, French, cooking and outdoor learning. All activities are included in the fees.

Children have the opportunity to go on trips, such as to the local church. They also take part in events including the Kindergarten and Infant Sports Day, Nativity performance, Prize Giving, Remembrance Day service and Mothering Sunday service.

We also hold a number of events for the whole family of those at St Mary’s to enjoy. These include Fireworks night, our Summer Fete and outdoor theatre productions.

First-class nursery facilities at St Mary’s Kindergarten Colchester

Our purpose-built Kindergarten has its own enclosed outdoor multi-sensory play area. It is the perfect place for young children to thrive in a safe environment.

Children also have access to all the Lower School facilities. For example, the Kindergarten children use the Forest School area, outdoor classroom, Library, Dance Studio, School Hall, playing fields and sports courts, all set on nine acres of land. This introduction to St Mary’s school life helps ensure the transition to the school is as smooth as possible.

Our Kindergarten is very popular and places can fill up over a year in advance. So if you’re interested in St Mary’s Kindergarten Colchester please get in touch with our Registrar as soon as you can at registrar@stmaryscolchester.org.uk or on 01206 594256.

Mrs Emma Stanhope, Head of St Mary’s Lower School