Business Details
50 Years
experience
Trusted Child Care & Early Education in Southampton
St James Nursery & Pre-school has been a trusted provider of early years education and childcare in Southampton since 1976. As a family-owned establishment, we pride ourselves on creating a nurturing environment where children aged 3 months to 8 years thrive through play-based learning. Our accreditation with The Curiosity Approach ensures we foster curiosity, awe, and wonder in every child. We hold seven Healthy Early Years Awards, including the prestigious GOLD standard, and were the first setting in Southampton to achieve this recognition. Our team of experienced, qualified staff delivers tailored care and education, supported by continuous professional development.We operate 51 weeks a year, offering flexible childcare options aligned with government funding schemes. Our secure online Learning Journeys system keeps parents informed with real-time updates. Sustainability is central to our ethos, with eco-friendly practices integrated into daily activities. We maintain strong partnerships with families and professionals to support each childs unique development. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our Ofsted GOOD rating and ongoing dedication to nurturing happy, confident learners.
Services
Child Care Services
Early Education
Healthy Eating Programs
Physical Activity Programs
Online Learning Journeys
Details
- Year established: 1976
Highlights and features
- We have over 45 years of experience in early childhood education.
- Our team holds The Curiosity Approach accreditation for innovative learning.
- We pioneered the GOLD Healthy Early Years Award in Southampton.
- Our staff maintain continuous professional development and first aid qualifications.
- We offer secure online Learning Journeys for real-time parental updates.
Associations and certifications
- The Curiosity Approach
- Healthy Early Years Awards (GOLD)
- Healthy Early Years Mental Health & Well-Being Award
What people say
Loved the healthy eating awards
Secure online learning journeys
Experienced staff
Nurturing environment
Ofsted GOOD rating
Services
Child Care Services
We provide full-time and sessional childcare for children aged 3 months to 8 years in a secure, stimulating environment. Our experienced staff deliver personalized care aligned with the Early Years Foundation Stage framework. Services include flexible hours, holiday clubs, and tailored support for children with special educational needs.
Early Education
Our play-based curriculum fosters curiosity and creativity through natural resources and child-led activities. We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage standards while integrating forest school principles and eco-friendly practices. Each child receives individualized learning plans tracked via secure online platforms.
Healthy Eating Programs
A qualified cook prepares fresh, balanced meals daily, with allergen information available upon request. We promote healthy habits through structured toothbrushing, hydration, and nutrition education. Our GOLD Healthy Early Years Award recognizes our commitment to fostering lifelong healthy lifestyle choices.
Physical Activity Programs
Daily physical activities include wake-and-shake exercises, outdoor play, and structured movement sessions. Our secure garden areas support free-flow play, developing motor skills through climbing, balancing, and sports. These programs enhance coordination, confidence, and overall physical development.
Online Learning Journeys
Parents receive real-time updates via secure digital platforms featuring photos, videos, and developmental observations. This system ensures transparency in learning progress while enabling immediate feedback between staff and families to support each child's unique growth.
People
Caroline
Founder
Caroline established St James Nursery over 45 years ago, pioneering a family-centred approach to early years education. Her legacy of nurturing care continues through her daughter Natasha and the dedicated team.
Natasha
Managing Partner
Natasha leads the nursery's strategic direction, maintaining her mother's vision while integrating modern educational practices. She ensures compliance with accreditation standards and oversees staff development programs.
Lisa
Joint Manager
Lisa manages daily operations, focusing on staff training and curriculum implementation. With years of experience, she ensures consistent delivery of high-quality care across both nursery units.
Charmaine
Joint Manager
Charmaine oversees facility operations and child welfare protocols. Her expertise in early years education supports the team's adherence to Ofsted standards and continuous improvement initiatives.
Agata
Early Years Teacher
Agata leads preschool education, designing curriculum activities that align with EYFS requirements. Her qualifications ensure children receive structured learning experiences tailored to individual developmental needs.
Questions
What age groups do you cater for?
We care for children aged 3 months to 8 years across two dedicated units: Hedgehogs (0-3 years) and Owls (3-5 years).
Are you Ofsted registered?
Yes, we hold an Ofsted GOOD rating (URN: EY473572) following our February 2025 inspection.
Do you accept government funding?
We accept tax-free childcare, vouchers, and government funding schemes including 30 hours provision for eligible families.
How do you support child development?
Our Curiosity Approach curriculum combines play-based learning with structured activities, supported by individual key workers tracking progress through secure online platforms.
What safety measures are in place?
All staff hold DBS checks and first aid qualifications. Our secure premises feature supervised outdoor areas and strict GDPR-compliant data protection policies.
How do you communicate with parents?
We provide real-time updates via secure Learning Journeys and maintain open communication channels through regular meetings and feedback opportunities.
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