Play Away Day Nursery - Southampton City

Anderson Road, St Marys, Southampton SO14 5FE
Review Us
9.8 92 Reviews
  • Play Away Day Nursery - Southampton City, Southampton
Located in the heart of Southampton and Ofsted-rated Good (January 2023), Play Away Day Nursery provides quality, convenient day care for children from 3 months to 5 years old. Outside the nursery, there is a bus stop and parking, making drop off and pick up times quick and easy for busy families.

The nursery is purpose-built and offers bright and spacious play areas for children and dedicated areas for when peace and quiet is needed. There is also a great outdoor space where children can play and explore under the shelter of all-weather protection, meaning outdoor play isn't limited to the summer months.

The team of practitioners are experienced and friendly. They get to know the children and their families and provide children with opportunities to engage in activities which suit their development stage and likes and dislikes, ensuring that they have the very best care during their early years.

The nursery is currently engaged in the "Eco Schools" initiative and the "Southampton Healthy Early Years Award (HEYA) in Physical Activity" initiative.
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Type of Service

  • Day Nursery
  • Open all year
  • Full Day Care
  • Sessional Day Care

Group/Owner

Person in Charge

  • Lizzy Pennell (Manager)

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 16

Total Places for Children

  • 102

Age Range

  • from 0 years 3 months
  • to 5 years 0 months

Funding & Fees

  • Offer full day and half day sessions. Half day sessions priced at £43.30

Opening Times

  • Monday 08:00-18:00
    Tuesday 08:00-18:00
    Wednesday 08:00-18:00
    Thursday 08:00-18:00
    Friday 08:00-18:00

When Closed

  • Bank Holidays & 1 week at Christmas

Parking

  • Car park available.

Play Away Day Nursery - Southampton City Reviews (92)

9.8

Play Away Day Nursery - Southampton City has a Review Score of 9.8 (9.760) out of 10, based on 83 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Play Away Day Nursery - Southampton City has 92 reviews.

Overall Experience
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Date Published
  • 92
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Reviewer Connection to Play Away Day Nursery - Southampton City
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Total of 92, showing 41-60
Review from D B (Mother of Child) published on 6 February 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Exceptional childcare. My son looks forward to going into nursery each morning, knowing that he will have fun and see all of his friends. Teachers are always kind and caring. Since starting nursery at 9 months old, my son has learned so much and has developed many skills. His speech and sharing skills
are a credit to all the staff.
Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Play Away Day Nursery - Southampton City
Thank you so much for your kind words! We're so happy to hear that your son enjoys coming to nursery and has developed so many wonderful skills since joining us at 9 months old. It's fantastic to know…read more
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Review from M A (Mother of Child) published on 9 January 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I cannot praise this nursery enough! As a very nervous first-time parent, I was incredibly apprehensive about leaving my baby at nursery. However, the staff immediately put me at ease with their warm, caring, and professional approach. They took the time to reassure me, answer all my questions, and
truly understand my concerns.
The team is fantastic at working with each child individually, tailoring activities and support to their unique needs and developmental stages. It's been amazing to see how much my baby has grown in confidence and skills since starting here. Their dedication and hard work really shine through, and it's clear they genuinely care about the children and their progress.
I'm so grateful for the wonderful start they've given my baby, and I feel confident knowing he's in such safe and loving hands. I highly recommend this nursery to any parent looking for a nurturing environment that truly supports their child's development.
Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Play Away Day Nursery - Southampton City
Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We are thrilled to hear how much your baby has grown in confidence and skills. It's our priority to provide a nurturing and supportive environment and we're glad…read more
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Review from R S (Mother of Child) published on 25 October 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The staff are always considerate towards us and our daughter. She eats better than we do! The food provided is great. Always lots of activities to do for the children. The staff are always mindful of our child's specific needs when presented.
Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Play Away Day Nursery - Southampton City
Thank you so much for your lovely feedback! We're so glad to hear that your daughter is thriving and enjoying the food and activities we provide. It's wonderful to know that our staff's consideration…read more
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Review from Stacie B (Mother of Child) published on 24 October 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We have had a fantastic experience with Play Away. My son attended from 2-4 and now my daughter is here. We are very happy.
Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Play Away Day Nursery - Southampton City
Thank you so much for your kind feedback! We're thrilled to hear that both your son and daughter have had such positive experiences with Play Away. It's wonderful to know that you've been happy with…read more
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Review from M A (Mother of Child) published on 24 October 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I have found this nursery to be wonderful for my child's social development. He has made friends and learned to engage with peers. He is always happy to attend and that reassures me that he is treated well by the lovely staff.
Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Play Away Day Nursery - Southampton City
Thank you so much for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that your child has made such positive progress in their social development and has built strong friendships. It's wonderful to know that…read more
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Review from Kieran A (Father of Child) published on 24 October 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Absolutely fantastic. The progress my son has made since he has been here is fantastic. The staff are always energetic and lively and always provide detailed handovers.
Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Play Away Day Nursery - Southampton City
Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! We're thrilled to hear about the progress your son has made with us. It's fantastic to know that you appreciate the energy and dedication of our staff,…read more
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Review from H A (Mother of Child) published on 24 October 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The staff have all been amazing and supporting of my son during his first 6 months at nursery. He always enjoys spending time here and I feel relieved and comfortable dropping him off.
Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Play Away Day Nursery - Southampton City
Thank you so much for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear that your son has had such a positive experience during his first six months with us. It's wonderful to know that he enjoys his time here…read more
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Review from David H (Father of Child) published on 24 October 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
All the staff at Play Away are brilliant! My child loves his nursery and has so much fun! Thank you for making him so welcome and happy!
Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Play Away Day Nursery - Southampton City
Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! We're so happy to hear that your child loves their time at Play Away and is having so much fun. It's our pleasure to make them feel welcome and happy,…read more
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Review from N S (Mother of Child) published on 3 October 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter is 3.5 years old. She has been to Play Away Day Nursery for the last 2 years. She has learnt good things. Staff are caring, supportive and vibrant. We got help with potty training as well. The staff are quite energetic and motivating, it increased my daughter's confidence.
Reply from Sonny, Marketing at Play Away Day Nursery - Southampton City
Thank you for such a delightful review! We're thrilled that your daughter has had such a positive experience with us over the past two years. From potty training to boosting her confidence, it's been…read more
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Review from L R (Mother of Child) published on 17 September 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Every person we have met, that works at the nursery, have all been welcoming, kind and helpful. I know that my child is safe and very much looked after every day.
My child has developed so much only having been at nursery for two months. You can see how much he enjoys being there and that he also trusts
the people that look after him.
The nursery is always clean and there are so many activities for the kids. Judging by how much my little one eats, the food is great too.
Reply from Sonny, Marketing at Play Away Day Nursery - Southampton City
Thank you for your glowing feedback! It's so lovely to hear how much your little one has flourished in just two months - it sounds like he's having the best time exploring the activities and enjoying…read more
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Review from S M (Grandmother of Child) published on 6 September 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Both my grandsons attend Play Away, they both enjoy going.
The staff are very friendly and extremely caring and always have the child's best interest at heart.
We attended the Carnival of Colours day (15th June) and a great time was had by all, especially Grandad, who won prizes and was shown how
to like a social media link!
Reply from Sonny, Marketing at Play Away Day Nursery - Southampton City
Thank you for such a heart-warming review! It's wonderful to hear how much your grandsons enjoy their time at Play Away - and we love that Grandad got involved in the Carnival of Colours! Winning…read more
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Review from Courtney C (Mother of Child) published on 12 August 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son has been with Play Away from 8 months - 4 years old. Not only did every teacher welcome him and make him feel comfortable, but also me too. His learning and social skills have come such a long way. We have loved every minute of the nursery experience. It has prepared him so well for school.
Reply from Sonny, Marketing at Play Away Day Nursery - Southampton City
What a wonderful journey it's been from 8 months to 4 years old! We're over the moon to hear that both you and your son felt so welcomed and comfortable at Play Away. Watching him grow in his learning…read more
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Review from S B (Mother of Child) published on 12 August 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Very healthy and friendly environment for kids.
My daughter always super happy coming to nursery.
She is always happy with the staff working at the nursery.
Staff are very well trained. Lovely approach to kids.
We as parents were always updated about any changes at nursery, eg: phone numbers, incidents,
sickness etc.
Super happy with nursery. Place will be very missed by our daughter and us.
Reply from Sonny, Marketing at Play Away Day Nursery - Southampton City
Thank you for sharing such a lovely review! It's fantastic to hear how happy your daughter is at nursery, and knowing she's always greeted by our well-trained, friendly staff makes us smile. We're so…read more
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Review from Monika P (Mother of Child) published on 12 August 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I'm very satisfied with the nursery. They have provided an excellent learning environment for my daughter. Her emotional and cognitive development is brilliant. She really loves coming to the nursery and after the nursery, she always wants to play nursery roles with me, presenting her daily activities
to me. She really respected her nursery teachers.
Reply from Sonny, Marketing at Play Away Day Nursery - Southampton City
We're thrilled to hear how much your daughter loves nursery and how brilliantly she's developing emotionally and cognitively! It's so heartwarming to know that she enjoys playing nursery roles at home…read more
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Review from Resmin A (Mother of Child) published on 12 August 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
My child has attended Play Away for 2 years and in that time he has learnt a lot.
His speech and confidence are great.
He has learnt to feed himself, dress himself and count.
From my experience with my first child, Play Away helps children to learn, and be independent and prepares them for entry
into school.
Both children enjoyed attending Play Away. Staff are very friendly and supportive.
Reply from Sonny, Marketing at Play Away Day Nursery - Southampton City
Thank you for your glowing review! It's wonderful to hear how much your child has grown in confidence, independence, and learning during his time at Play Away. We're so proud to have helped both of…read more
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Review from Phill T (Father of Child) published on 12 August 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Excellent communication. My emails are always answered promptly. Our daughter loves attending and I feel she is very well cared for.
I am updated at each pick-up about her day, and I really enjoy the observations on the app about her learning.
The meals are interesting and it enables my child to try
different foods with her peers.
She has transitioned well to Paddington's, as some of her friends moved also.
Reply from Sonny, Marketing at Play Away Day Nursery - Southampton City
Thank you for your kind words! We're delighted to hear how much your daughter loves attending and how well she's transitioned to Paddington's. We're especially glad you enjoy the updates and…read more
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Review from V A (Mother of Child) published on 12 August 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Lovely and caring staff. Perfect location.
I'm glad my child went to this nursery.
She enjoyed and loved spending time here.
Reply from Sonny, Marketing at Play Away Day Nursery - Southampton City
We're thrilled that your child had such a wonderful experience with us! It's fantastic to hear that she enjoyed her time at the nursery and felt so loved and cared for. The perfect location is just…read more
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Review from Payam M (Mother of Child) published on 12 August 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Very helpful staff and lovely. They have helped my son so much. It's a very clean and friendly nursery.
Reply from Sonny, Marketing at Play Away Day Nursery - Southampton City
Thank you for your lovely words! We're so pleased to hear how much your son has benefited from being with us. Our team takes great pride in creating a clean, friendly, and nurturing environment, so…read more
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Review from D P (Mother of Child) published on 12 August 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
Very happy with the nursery. Both of my children love attending. The care and attention given to the children is outstanding. Attention to all their needs - nappy changes, meals and sleep times. My infant is very excited to attend this nursery every morning even though she can't speak yet. I think that
says volumes about how wonderful and content children find it here.
Reply from Sonny, Marketing at Play Away Day Nursery - Southampton City
We're absolutely delighted to hear how much your children love attending our nursery! It's amazing to know that even your little one, who can't yet speak, is so excited to join us every morning-what a…read more
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Review from Arnoldas A (Father of Child) published on 12 August 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I am very happy with the service provided by the Play Away Nursery staff.
People here are very friendly and give great care to our children.
Reply from Sonny, Marketing at Play Away Day Nursery - Southampton City
Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! We're overjoyed that you're happy with the care we provide at Play Away Nursery. Our friendly team is dedicated to giving the best possible care to every…read more
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Current Review Score: 9.8 (9.760)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.8 (9.760) out of 10 for Play Away Day Nursery - Southampton City is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  1. The Average Rating is 4.8 out of 5 from 83 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 83 positive Reviews in the last 24 months.

Detailed Breakdown of Review Score

The maximum Review Score for a Day Nursery is 10, which is made up from the Average Rating of Reviews (maximum of 5 points) and the Number of Reviews (maximum of 5 points) in the last 24 months:

  1. 5 Points are available for the Average Rating from all Reviews in the last 24 months. The Average Rating of 4.760 for Play Away Day Nursery - Southampton City is calculated as follows: ( (764 Excellents x 5) + (218 Goods x 4) + (10 Satisfactorys x 3) ) ÷ 992 Ratings = 4.76
  2. 5 Points are available for the number of Positive Reviews in the last 24 months. A Positive Review is defined as any Review with an 'Overall Experience' of '4' or '5' (out of a max rating '5'). The 5 Points relating to the number of positive Reviews for Play Away Day Nursery - Southampton City is based on 83 positive Reviews in the last 24 months and is calculated as per below:

    The 5 points available are broken down as follows:

    1. 4 points are available for the first 10 Positive Reviews in the last 24 months; 3 points for the first Positive Review, and then 0.125 Points for each of the next four Positive Reviews and then 0.1 Points for the next five Positive Reviews. (1st = 3.000, 2nd = 0.125, 3rd = 0.125, 4th = 0.125, 5th = 0.125, 6th = 0.100, 7th = 0.100, 8th = 0.100, 9th = 0.100, 10th = 0.100) 3 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 = 4
    2. 1 point is available for the number of Positive Reviews reaching 20% of the number of registered child places in the last 24 months. If this number is partially reached, then that proportion of 1 point is given. eg a Day Nursery registered for a maximum of 50 child places has to reach 10 Positive Reviews to receive 1 point, if it has 7 reviews it will receive 0.7 points. 20% of the 102 number of registered child places is 20.4, which has been reached with 83 Positive reviews. Points = 1
  3. When a Review is submitted by someone who has previously submitted a Review, only the latest Review will count towards the Review Score.
  4. If a Day Nursery does not have a review in the last 24 months, then it will not have a Review Score.

Child Vacancies

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Awards / Recognitions (3)

Meet the Team (2)

Lizzy

Lizzy Pennell

Job Title: Nursery Manager Joined: 1997

Hi, I’m Lizzy, the nursery manager at Play Away Southampton City. I have been at the nursery since 1997 and have over 25 years’ experience working in early years.


I started my career as a trainee and have worked my way up to Nursery Manager, taking on the position in 2011. The role allowed me to take on further responsibilities and grow and develop within the nursery.


I have completed a diploma in CACHE, a foundation degree, and hold a BA in childcare and education.


I am the nursery SENCO and the safeguarding lead.


I am a mum of two boys who have both been through nursery. I enjoy taekwondo, jiu jitsu, support my local football club and have a love for Formula 1.


I am incredibly passionate about my nursery and seeing the children develop in the rooms, and supporting my team in providing the best care possible. We are currently introducing the curiosity approach within the nursery, giving children the opportunity to expand on their natural interests.

Melanie

Melanie Mattocks

Job Title: Deputy Manager

I’ve spent the past 8 years working in childcare, alongside 25 years of parenting experience, including raising my own child with ADHD. I hold Level 3 and 5 CACHE Awards in Childcare and a Level 3 SENCO Award, and have worked with all age groups across the EYFS as a room leader, reception staff, deputy manager, and SENCO.


Supporting children with SEN is close to my heart, and I’ve trained in Lego-based programmes, play therapy, and schema play to help every child shine.

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