Business Details
33 Years
experience
Trusted Childcare and Early Education in Southampton
Established in 1993, Paint Pots has grown from a single setting to a network of 6 nurseries and 7 pre-schools across Southampton and Hampshire. Our approach combines a nurturing environment with educational excellence, rooted in a Christian ethos that respects all faiths and none. We prioritise individualised care, ensuring each child feels valued while developing essential life skills. With highly qualified staff and a commitment to safety, we provide a home-from-home atmosphere that fosters confidence, kindness, and resilience. As part of Launchpad Social Enterprise, we continue to expand our services while maintaining the homely values that define us.Our team works closely with parents to support every stage of a child's development, preparing them for school and beyond. We believe learning should be joyful, offering stimulating activities that encourage creativity and exploration. Regular assessments ensure tailored progress plans, while our inclusive environment welcomes families from all backgrounds. Over 30 years, we have built a reputation for exceptional childcare, reflected in our multiple outstanding Ofsted ratings. Our mission remains to make a lasting positive impact on children's lives through love, laughter, and learning.
Services
Nurseries
Pre-Schools
Childcare Funding
Room Hire
Training Facilities
Details
- Year established: 1993
Highlights and features
- We have 30+ years of experience in early years education
- Our staff provide tailored learning approaches for each child
- Multiple locations across Southampton and Hampshire ensure accessibility
- Outstanding Ofsted ratings demonstrate our commitment to quality
- Christian ethos promotes respect and inclusivity for all families
What people say
Wonderful ladies
Very clean
Great play area
Lots of adventures
Positive impact
Services
Nurseries
Our nurseries provide full-day childcare for children aged 9 months and above. Each setting offers a safe, stimulating environment with qualified staff delivering tailored learning activities. With 6 locations across Southampton, we combine structured education with free play to develop social and cognitive skills in preparation for school.
Pre-Schools
Our pre-schools focus on foundational learning through play-based curricula. Children engage in creative activities that build literacy, numeracy, and motor skills. With small class sizes and experienced educators, we ensure individual attention while fostering independence and peer relationships in line with Ofsted standards.
Childcare Funding
We offer government-funded childcare places for eligible families, including 30-hour options from September 2025. Our team assists parents in navigating funding applications, ensuring accessible quality care. Flexible payment plans and direct debit options accommodate varying family needs across all our settings.
Room Hire
Our Southampton venue accommodates up to 70 people with modern facilities including AV equipment and break-out spaces. Ideal for training sessions, community meetings, or workshops, the space includes catering amenities and flexible seating arrangements. Enquire for competitive hire rates and availability.
Training Facilities
We provide training venues equipped with digital projectors, presentation tools, and refreshment facilities. These spaces support staff development programs and early years education workshops. Annual training days ensure our educators maintain high standards while complying with regulatory requirements across all nursery locations.
People
David Wright
Founder
Co-founded Paint Pots in 1993, establishing its nurturing ethos. Now serves as an ambassador, maintaining involvement in early years education while mentoring staff across the 13 settings.
Anna Wright
Founder
Co-founder instrumental in developing the charity's values. Retired in 2022 but continues as an ambassador, ensuring continuity of the 'Love, Laughter and Learning' philosophy across all nursery and pre-school locations.
Nick Ralph
Founder
Reverend Canon and founder of Launchpad Social Enterprise. Integrated Paint Pots into the charity network in 2022, expanding access to quality childcare while preserving its core values and community focus.
Questions
What childcare funding options are available?
Eligible families can access 30-hour funded places from September 2025. Contact our team for details on current funding schemes and application assistance across all settings.
Do you have nurseries in Southampton?
We operate 6 nurseries and 7 pre-schools throughout Southampton and Hampshire. Use our online map to locate the nearest setting with available spaces for your child.
Are your nurseries Ofsted registered?
All settings have outstanding Ofsted ratings. Inspection reports for each location are available on our website, demonstrating our commitment to exceeding childcare standards.
What is your educational approach?
We combine structured learning with free play in a Christian-inclusive environment. Staff create individual development plans, focusing on confidence-building, creativity, and school readiness through engaging activities.
Can I hire your training facilities?
Our Southampton venue accommodates up to 70 people with AV equipment, break-out rooms, and catering facilities. Enquire via our contact form for hire rates and availability details.
Reviews (3)
Rajas More
Nov 10, 2021
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Sue, Ace and Tei have been very friendly, flexible and co-operative about Mukta. They have cared for her like family and not just like a professional nursery. Chelsea have been very co-operative when we had few urgencies. Both me and my wife feel we took right decision by selecting Paintpots & have no regrets. We fully recommend Paintpots anyone looking for childcare
Andrew Yeates
Jul 10, 2018
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Was meant to have a trial day at this nursery for my granddaughter today 10am arrived 5 minuets early stood ringing the bell at least 6 times waited 10 mins no awnser very very poor not a good impression at all I think I will keep her in the better nursery for paint pots in harefield
Chris Exton
May 31, 2016
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My son loved his time there 10 years ago! He still comments 'that's my nursery' whenever we drive past.
