Paint Pots Pre School and Nursery

About this day nursery

Paint Pots Pre-School & Nursery is a charitable social enterprise that operates 13 early years settings, including 6 full-time nurseries and 7 term-time preschools, primarily serving families in and around Southampton with a focus on areas facing social and economic challenges. The organization is deeply rooted in the community and driven by a values-led approach, aiming to enhance outcomes for children and families through high-quality early education, care, and support, ensuring children have the best possible start in life.

The ethos is broad and inclusive, resembling that of Anglican church schools, welcoming individuals of all faiths and backgrounds, and serving the entire community. As a charity, Paint Pots prioritizes children's well-being, fostering self-respect and mutual care.

They are committed to creating an environment filled with joy, care, friendship, love, laughter, and learning. The name "Paint Pots" symbolizes the unlimited possibilities that arise from a single pot of paint, reflecting the belief that every child is unique and capable of creating their own "masterpieces" in life.

The dedicated staff strives to achieve optimal outcomes for children in collaboration with parents and carers, assessing progress and planning activities to support each developmental stage. This nurturing "home-from-home" environment aims to cultivate confidence, kindness, and resilience, preparing children not only for school but for life itself.

Established in 1993 by David and Anna Wright, Paint Pots expanded from a single nursery to multiple settings, maintaining a warm, caring atmosphere. In 2022, the Anglican Diocese of Winchester, through its Launchpad Social Enterprise, took over, furthering its commitment to social mission and putting children, families, and staff first.

The organization achieved charitable status in October 2024, reinforcing its dedication to values that support the holistic development of children and young people.

Our ethos

Paint Pots Pre-School & Nursery operates with a values-led approach, inspired by Anglican church schools, prioritizing children's well-being, self-respect, and mutual care within an inclusive, community-focused environment. They foster joy, friendship, love, laughter, and learning, believing each child is unique and capable of creating their own "masterpieces." The nursery aims to cultivate confidence, kindness, and resilience, providing a nurturing "home-from-home" environment to prepare children for school and life.

What it's like

Staff welcome children with open arms and children eagerly enter the nursery. Staff have special bonds with their key children and children enjoy key-person group times. Children are happy and want to learn, progressing in their development in a warm, safe environment.