'We've been teaching the Wolverhampton community for 60 years - this is why we are the best'

So, we thought that there is no better way to celebrate the occasion than to visit the school for our weekly School Focus feature, and see just what St Michael’s has gotten right.

The pre-school was established in 1966 by the local women’s institute, and through a range of loyal and dedicated leaders, has gone from strength to strength, educating the young and preparing the next generation of star-learners.

Now, 60 years on and under the leadership of Rose Wellsbury, manager at the pre-school, and deputy manager Nicola Kynaston-Wood, the venue is no different, with children skipping to classes each morning, excited for the day ahead.

Ms Kynaston-Wood said: “We have welcomed generations of families over the years.

“Our current manager, Rose, first had links to us when her own daughter started Playgroup in 1986. Rose then became a parent helper and has since worked her way to manager.

“Her grandchildren also attend here, and she is sadly retiring in July.

Most of our intake actually comes from recommendations from long-standing families and friends who have trusted us with the care of their children.”

Grace Wilding, Room Leader and SENCo at the school, said that the key to success is to always put the child first, saying that everything the pre-school does is child-focused and centred around what their young learners need.

She said: “Our focus is always on putting the child first. Everything we do is centred around supporting each child’s development, preparing them for their steps in life, and ensuring they feel safe, valued and inspired.

“We place a strong emphasis on child-led learning, where activities are shaped around children’s interests and experiences, creating meaningful and engaging opportunities.

Another key focus is emotional well-being. Through nurturing routines and approaches like Zones of Regulation. Finally, we prioritise early learning skills across all areas, particularly maths, communications, and literacy.”

When we asked about what has led to the school’s long success, we were met with their three core values: care, inclusion, and a belief in every child.

Ms Wilding said: “Our values are rooted in care, inclusion and a belief in every child’s potential.

“We are proud to have supported generations of families, and that sense of community is at the heart of everything we do.

“Our approach is simple; we put children first. We celebrate individuality, and we create a foundation for lifelong learning through play, curiosity, and strong relationships.”

Overall, Ms Wilding said that the school is made unique by its creative environment, where children play and laugh, all whilst learning to love education.

She said: “What makes St Michael’s truly unique is the magical and creative environment that we create for our children.

“We celebrate the art and crafts they produce, and it fills our halls with colour and gives children ownership of their space.

“Children also learn to plant and care for vegetables and flowers, and develop a sense of responsibility and real connection to nature.

“In addition to all of this, we have strong links to our local primary schools, and we support the smooth transition so that children feel confident and ready for their next stage.”

In the end, the pre-school we saw was one of love and learning, a truly community-driven establishment that many from the local area know, love, and remember with cherished memories.

It’s no surprise to us that this school has been progressing from strength to strength for the last 60 years.