Led by a new and experienced Senior Leadership Team. Federated with Alvaston Infant and Nursery School.
Led by a new and experienced Senior Leadership Team. Federated with Alvaston Infant and Nursery School.
Welcome to Central &
Ashgate Nursery Schools
As Nursery Schools we are teacher-led, with confident practitioners ensuring
high‑quality interactions to extend learning, support communication, and build independence.
Hello!
Welcome to our two, teacher-led, Local Authority Nursery Schools, we are delighted that you are considering joining our community!
Ever since I could walk and talk, I dreamed of being a teacher! I am lucky enough to be the proud Acting Executive Headteacher of Central and Ashgate Nursery School as well as Alvaston Infant and Nursery School.
As a staff body, we are unwaveringly committed to driving standards and ensuring every child is kept safe. Whilst we have only been supporting the schools for a short while, the schools have already made many rapid improvements – great things are happening at Central and Ashgate. I can assure you that your children will be safe, loved and treasured by the staff here at Central and Ashgate Nursery Schools.
As schools, we do operate differently, with teacher led provision and high expectations. As well as having an ambitious, curriculum diet and a personal development programme for all, we are inclusive schools, who will always go the extra mile. Every day matters, every experience counts, therefore, we do expect children to attend school regularly, and on time, and look forward to working with you all so you can see the benefits that this philosophy brings. We will work across the schools to strengthen the provision and make certain that every school thrives, whilst still keeping its individual identity and in turn we will nurture every child, their talents and interests. I am a huge believer that schools are hubs of their community and feel it is a great honour to be able to work for children, families and communities.
Mrs Peach
Executive Headteacher
Hello, my name is Tracy Darby, and I have the privilege of being the Acting Head of our two wonderful nursery schools, a role I have proudly held since March 2026. My background has always been rooted in early years — in fact, I trained at Central as a Nursery Nurse back in 1983 — and my passion for giving every child the highest‑quality start in life has only grown stronger over the years.
I believe deeply that all children deserve an education that nurtures them, challenges them, and sets them up for life. Our values are simple but powerful: to be kind, to be caring, and to always do the right thing. These values shape everything we do and create an environment where children can truly grow and flourish.
We work closely with our school families and our wider community because we know that strong relationships are at the heart of successful early education. As a mum of four grown‑up children and a very proud grandmother of four, I understand the pressures of family life and the desire every parent has to give their child the very best.
I cannot wait for you to come and meet us and see what we have to offer. We are currently evolving and reshaping our provision, and there are exciting times ahead for our nurseries.
Mrs Darby
Acting Headteacher
What’s we’ve been up to around here…
Nursery School or Private Day Nursery
Which one is right for you?
Ashgate and Central
Nursery Schools
Primarily focused on early education and preparing children for school.
Including an ambitious, inclusive curriculum for all. Meticulously monitored, to ensure children acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to prepare them for the next stage of learning.Attendance is key. Every day matters, every experience counts.
We expect your child to attend every agreed session.Supported by the Local Authority.
Cater for children aged 2–5 years.
Open term-time, 8am - 6pm
Led by qualified teachers and early years specialists.
Funded sessions. See our criteria for more information.
Private Day Nurseries
and Childminders
Provide childcare alongside early years education.
Privately owned and funded mainly through parent fees.
Accept children from infancy through to school age.
Often remain open throughout the year, including most school holidays.
Staff are nursery practitioners, rather than teachers or teaching assistants.