About us
The University of St Andrews Nursery is a welcoming and inclusive early years setting where children aged 3 months to 5 years are supported to learn, grow, and thrive through high-quality care, experienced practitioners, and enriching opportunities drawn from our strong links with the University, Saints Sport, and the wider community.
Our Nursery
The University of St Andrews Nursery is a private, 44-place setting caring for children aged 3 months to 5 years. We are open year-round and provide high-quality early learning and childcare.
Our setting is staffed by a dedicated team of qualified practitioners, apprentices, and support staff.
We are part of the wider University community and maintain strong links with Saints Sport, offering unique opportunities for children to access specialist coaches and facilities.
Our Team
Our team includes Assistant Director (Children’s Servies) Nursery Manager, Deputy Manager, Chef, Administrator, Senior Practitioners, Early Years Practitioners, and Early Years Apprentices.
All staff are members of the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme and are registered with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC).
Staff-to-child ratios
Staff-to-child ratios are maintained in line with national standards:
- 0–2 years: 1 adult to 3 children
- 2–3 years: 1 adult to 5 children
- 3–5 years: 1 adult to 8 children
Our Community
We are proud of our strong community links. Children benefit from access to Saints Sport coaches, providing engaging physical activities. We also use the local parks, beach, and community spaces to enrich children’s experiences and learning. Parents are invited to engage with the nursery through events, consultations, and feedback opportunities. We work closely with the University Departments and Schools, including chaplaincy, music, museums and transitions to name a few.
We are also partners of Fife Council. We have a dedicated Early Years Development Officer to support the nursey as well as monthly visits for the Peripatetic Teacher.
As members of Early Years Scotland, they offer a number of support services and membership benefits to assist a range of professionals who work for, and on behalf of, Scotland’s youngest children.
Our Approach
Pedagogical philosophy (Waldorf Steiner, Curriculum for Excellence)
Our approach is inspired by the Waldorf Steiner philosophy, which promotes holistic, child-led learning. We follow the Curriculum for Excellence – Early Level, ensuring all children receive a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
GIRFEC framework
Our ethos is guided by GIRFEC (Getting It Right for Every Child), Scotland’s national framework for supporting wellbeing.
Forest & Beach Kindy experiences
We emphasise play-based learning both indoors and outdoors, with opportunities for Forest and Beach Kindy experiences.
Our rooms
Baby Turtles (0-2)
At the University of St Andrews Nursery, the Baby Turtle Room provides a calm, nurturing, and secure environment where our youngest children can grow and thrive. Babies are encouraged to learn through sensory exploration using a wide range of natural materials, books, toys, music, and sensory-rich experiences that support their early development.
The room’s warm and welcoming atmosphere helps children feel safe, relaxed, and comfortable. Our qualified and experienced practitioners carefully plan exciting opportunities for discovery while responding to each child’s individual needs.
Your child’s key person will work closely with you to ensure continuity between home and nursery.
Starfish (2-3)
The Starfish Room offers a stimulating and engaging environment where children are encouraged to learn through play, both indoors and in our secure outdoor garden area.
Children can freely choose where and how they play, supporting their independence, confidence, and curiosity. Our skilled practitioners understand the changing needs of toddlers and provide a balance of fun, challenge, and nurture throughout the day.
Through carefully planned experiences and responsive interactions, children are supported to develop new skills and interests. Your child’s key person will work in partnership with you to ensure continuity between home and nursery.
Dolphin (3-5)
Our Fife Council funded Dolphin Room promotes learning through play while embedding the principles of Fife Council Core Provision and supporting the outcomes of Curriculum for Excellence.
Practitioners incorporate the guidance of Realising the Ambition throughout their practice, creating a learning environment that is inclusive, creative, and responsive to children’s interests and needs.
Children are encouraged to explore, investigate, and develop problem-solving skills through meaningful experiences and positive relationships. A strong focus is placed on wellbeing, confidence, and personal achievement. Staff work closely with families to support every child’s learning journey and ongoing development.