OUR MISSION

To provide children with the tools they need to be successful and foster a love of learning early on.

OUR PHILOSOPHY

Our mission is supported by a team of dedicated, educated, and thoughtful teachers who understand the importance of a play-based learning model that is balanced with a well-rounded educational curriculum. One where children can learn through books, art, science, cooking, music, sensory play, yoga, etc. There are so many different ways that we can learn! SPNS provides numerous creative learning experiences throughout our day with flexibility in mind—a necessity when dealing with children at this stage of development.

OUR VALUES

We attach importance to building a strong foundation to set children up for success, with an early childhood education experience that is dedicated to making school a fun and positive experience for all who attend. Our thoughtfully planned curriculum is one that will help our students grow and develop numerous skills that are essential to their success in the years to come. At SPNS, we provide an environment where children can play, express their creativity, problem solve, explore, and understand the world in their own unique way, as well as at their own developmental level.

A squigle shape with kids on a slide inside. A badge with "Over 50 Years" is in the corner.

OUR CURRICULUM

Our philosophy is supported by a team of dedicated, educated, and thoughtful teachers who understand the importance of a play-based learning model that is balanced with a well-rounded educational curriculum. One where children can learn through books, art, science, cooking, music, sensory play, yoga, etc. There are so many different ways that we can learn! SPNS provides numerous creative learning experiences throughout our day with flexibility in mind—a necessity when dealing with children at this stage of development.

OUR CLASSROOMS

A painting of kids flying through the night sky by Peter H. Reynolds for Saint Paul's Nursery School.

STARS

The Stars classroom is located upstairs and hosts our youngest friends at SPNS with children eligible to enroll starting at age 2.9 years old. Since this is typically most children’s first school experience, we start by working on the transition from home to school to make it as smooth and comfortable as possible. We also place a big emphasis on setting the foundation for their social-emotional learning journey. Sharing, problem solving, using our words, and working together are just some of the things we will work on throughout the school year. Our Stars friends get used to following a daily routine and work on their self-help and independence skills, with ample teacher support and guidance. The Stars will also begin to be exposed to the alphabet with weekly workbook activities, letter, and name recognition, and strengthening their fine motor skills through various activities.

A painting of kids and rocket ships flying through outer space by Peter H. Reynolds for Saint Paul's Nursery School.

ROCKETS

The Rockets classroom is located downstairs and is considered our “Pre-K” class. This classroom continues to build on the foundation that was set in the Stars classroom to ensure that all of our Rockets are ready when it comes time to enter Kindergarten. By strengthening their social-emotional skills through play and group discussions, building on letter recognition and phonemic awareness, and participating in pre-writing and math activities we are confident in all our graduates entering elementary school. Throughout the year, the Rockets work on weekly letter themed activities, complete monthly journal entries and self-portraits, explore thematic sensory bins, work on original class books, and spending time in our writing center…and so much more!

Enrollment Open

SPNS is accepting applications for the 2024-2025 year! Check out our FAQ and contacts us for a brochure or tour.

About Our School

St. Paul’s Nursery School (SPNS), a small community preschool located in the heart of historic Dedham.

About Our Teachers

We all strive to make SPNS an environment filled with  fun, learning, and a sense of community.