General Information

The Academy Nursery School (formerly Londonderry Nursery School) was the first nursery school in the city and is part of a provision extending over half a century.

The school relocated in 2003 to a new purpose built building that is centrally located on Academy Road. The design of the building has incorporated many new features such as disability access, good parking facilities as well as a door security system and an enclosed site which ensures a safe and secure environment for the children in our care. The opening of a new building provided the opportunity to update and renew our resources and also to develop an exciting and stimulating play environment both indoors and outdoors.

In 2012 the school was further upgraded by the addition of an extension. This included the addition of a multi-purpose room which has provided additional opportunities for physical development, staff development, parent workshops and courses. The addition of an interactive whiteboard has also helped to promote the preschool curriculum through the use of ICT. The extension also added additional hall space, a separate office and staff room as well as a utility room and a disabled bathroom. In 2015 we replaced our outdoor safety surface and added new static physical play equipment. We also added a garden area, digging area and outdoor play house.

Our qualified and experienced staff consists of two teachers and three nursery assistants, a secretary, dining attendant and a building supervisor. We seek to promote a friendly, welcoming attitude to all the children and their parents in the wide area which we serve.

The school aims to provide a bright, stimulating learning environment, and together with parents, help each child to reach his/her maximum potential in every area of his/her growth. This is achieved through the careful planning and organisation of quality educational experiences that take into account a child’s level of development as well as interests. The nursery school curriculum is based upon the areas of development outlined in The Department of Education’s Documents entitled “The Northern Ireland Preschool Curriculum” and is in line with those that the children will follow through primary school.

As an Education Authority School, we welcome all applicants regardless of culture or religious belief.