Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery

36 Thornbury Avenue, Shirley, Southampton SO15 5BR
Review Us
9.8 31 Reviews
  • Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery, Southampton
Based in Shirley, Southampton, Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery offers day care for children aged between 4 months and 5 years.

With focus on the individuality of each child, the nursery aims to provide continuous experiences for innovative, creative and focused play. The qualified and professional team are always on hand to offer a warm welcome, encouraging children to explore, learn and play in a way that suits their unique preferences and requirements.

Open for full day, half day, and sessional day care, Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery is committed to ensuring "the very best start for your little ray of light".

The nursery is conveniently located, with good access to public transport, making it a great option for parents and families with busy lives.

Type of Service

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

Owner

  • Ritika Agarwal
  • Privately Owned

Person in Charge

  • Simone Bull (Manager)

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 9

Total Places for Children

  • 35

Age Range

  • from 0 years 4 months
  • to 5 years 0 months

Funding & Fees

  • combination of daily rates, hourly ,and session rates. additional hours

  • Fees sheet is available on request.

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 & Christmas

Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery Reviews (31)

9.8

Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery has a Review Score of 9.8 (9.833) out of 10, based on 15 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery has 31 reviews.

Overall Experience
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Date Published
  • 31
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Reviewer Connection to Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery
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Total of 31, showing 1-20
Review from Alexandra V (Mother of Child) published on 23 October 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We couldn't have wished for a warmer or more loving place for our children than Sunshine Nursery. We came to England from Belgium for a temporary assignment, and our daughter didn't speak any English when we first arrived. From day one, she was welcomed with so much kindness and care and we could see
she instantly felt at ease. The team supported us through every stage - from potty training to helping our daughter wear her eyepatch. Nothing was ever too much to ask, and we always felt we could turn to them for advice or reassurance.
The carers were genuinely enthusiastic to see our children (and us;)) every day, and that feeling was completely mutual. The manager is also wonderful - professional, warm, and capable.
We feel incredibly grateful for everything Sunshine Nursery has done for our daughter and our little son. They have given our children such a happy and loving start in life. We will always remember this special place!
Reply from Simone Bull, Nursery Manager at Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery
Thank you so much for taking the time to submit a review, we are thrilled to read such lovely feedback. The safety and happiness of the children at Sunshine is paramount to us and the staff really do…read more
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Review from Joanna F (Mother of Child) published on 12 September 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our daughter has attended Sunshine Nursery for 3 years, during this time we have watched as the staff have helped her grow into a happy and confident child. All of the staff are wonderful, they are kind, attentive and playful. We are so pleased we chose Sunshine, we can't fault the staff or the environment.
Reply from Simone Bull, Nursery Manager at Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery
We really appreciate you taking the time to leave us some feedback. It's fantastic to hear you have had such a positive experience at Sunshine, we really strive to do our best for the children…read more
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Review from Lavinia G (Mother of Child) published on 12 September 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I am most grateful to all the staff at Sunshine for their fantastic support and teaching. Our daughter has been with them for 2 years and during this time she has learned so much and grew tremendously. A special thank you to the manager who has been very supportive to myself and her dad, and always
with a smile and a 'can do' attitude. Another special thank you to the member of staff who got all children to participate in new and interesting activities. I would also like to mention another member of staff who has been a great support for our daughter and thought her new skills and British expressions. Importantly, the food is tasty and with good variety, whilst adapting to the child's allergies but also needs and preference. Our daughter hardly ever got sick and I think this must be related to the care, food, and going outside daily.
Reply from Simone Bull, Nursery Manager at Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave us such a lovely review. I am so happy to hear how highly you speak of Sunshine and our team here, we are very proud of our setting and it is so…read more
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Review from Sadia L (Mother of Child) published on 10 September 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our daughter has been at Sunshine Nursery for 1.5 years, and we're so pleased with the care she receives. The staff are warm, attentive, and truly know each child. She's grown in confidence and learning through fun, well-planned activities.
The nursery is well-managed, with great communication and
a safe, happy environment. We're grateful to Sunshine team for the support they've given her!
Reply from Simone Bull, Nursery Manager at Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery
Thank you so much for taking the time to write a review for us, it's great to hear you speak so highly of Sunshine. Thank you for your feedback we always appreciate you taking the time to share your…read more
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Review from P T (Mother of Child) published on 10 September 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter finished her Sunshine journey to start School this September. She was with Sunshine for near 2 years and she has loved going to nursery. It is a safe, nurturing environment and the staff are very friendly and helpful. She made friends and enjoyed the activities planned for them. It was helpful
to get updates in the app about their day. It's a lovely nursery and I would like to thank Sunshine for the love and care provided to my child.
Reply from Simone Bull, Nursery Manager at Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery
Thank you so much for taking the time to write a review for us, it's wonderful to hear your family had such a great experience and you are happy with the care and support that we provided! I am super…read more
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Review from Lucy M (Mother of Child) published on 15 January 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Sunshine Nursery has been such a delightful place for my daughter for nearly one and a half years now. The manager and all the staff go above and beyond.
My daughter has had challenges with social skills, language, and comprehension. The team has been overwhelmingly supportive in enhancing her integration
including setting up a 1:1 arrangement to assist in developing her key milestones.
We can attest that the nursery has helped her to continually develop her confidence and independence. She's also picking up social cues which is such a great stride in her development.
The facilities, resources, and activities at the nursery are excellently appropriate to help the kids learn, explore and equally have fun.
Reply from Simone Bull, Nursery Manager at Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery
Thank you so much for taking the time to write this review. I am extremely proud of the team here at Sunshine and I am so happy to hear that you feel we go above and beyond. It is an absolute pleasure…read more
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Review from M E (Mother of Child) published on 12 November 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My child has been going to Sunshine Nursery for the last 5 months now and he loves it! The staff are always friendly and are always interested in my child. It is a lovely, family-orientated nursery which I would highly recommend for any child to attend.
Reply from Simone Bull, Nursery Manager at Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery
Many thanks for taking the time to leave us a review. We are all so pleased to hear you are happy with Sunshine and the care we provide, we are also over the moon to hear your little one is enjoying…read more
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Review from A P (Mother of Child) published on 11 November 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We had moved from India and were concerned about the child care - particularly language barrier for my 2 year old. Staff at Sunshine have really been kind - they proactively took all necessary steps to ensure safety, wellbeing and playfulness of my child. As a result my child loves to go there and building
great memories!
Reply from Ritika Agarwal, Nursery Owner at Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery
Thank you so much for taking the time to make this additional review, as I previously said it really is greatly appreciated. We are so happy to hear that your experience is a positive one and that you…read more
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Review from Anurag P (Father of Child) published on 11 November 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
It's a safe space that my child enjoys and feels connected to. We were worried if he would be able to settle down, but thanks to dedicated efforts from the team there - he not just settled but had great memories.
Reply from Simone Bull, Nursery Manager at Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery
Many thanks for taking the time to submit a review for us, we are so happy to hear that your child feels that Sunshine is a safe space and that he is making so many great memories here. We appreciate…read more
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Review from Rebekah M (Mother of Child) published on 1 November 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter thoroughly enjoys her days at Sunshine, the staff are attentive and caring and it has been a wonderful experience. My daughter has made friends and really enjoys playing with the other children, 100% recommend.
Reply from Simone Bull, Nursery Manager at Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery
Thank you so much for taking the time to write a review for us, it's wonderful to hear your daughter is having such a great experience and you are happy with the care and support that we provide!
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Review from A Q (Father of Child) published on 16 September 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
It was the first and the best experience ever for our little 3-year-old girl in Sunshine Nursery. She spent there almost one lovely year with amazing development and care. I would like to grab the chance and thank you Manager and Deputy Manager and everyone in the team for the great experience we had
together in Sunshine Nursery.
Reply from Simone Bull, Nursery Manager at Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery
Thank you so much for taking the time to complete this review for us. We are so happy to hear you had such a lovely experience here at Sunshine and would like to note it was also a pleasure for us to…read more
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Review from A L (Mother of Child) published on 20 August 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We love Sunshine Nursery and so does our son. We truly feel like we have made a very good decision by sending our child here. It's a small nursery with that home-from-home feeling. The Sunshine staff are friendly and caring, with communication about your little ones day as a strong point. They are happy
to keep to a routine (if you have one) and will focus on areas that your child might need extra help in, or that you are concerned with. Our Son has gone from being a very clingy baby to a confident toddler who is happy to go to any of the Sunshine staff. We also find the app helpful with the daily updates about your child, so you can see nappy changes, sleep, snacks/meals and development points. Overall, we are extremely happy with this nursery and would highly recommend it!
Reply from Simone Bull, Nursery Manager at Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave us a review. We are so happy to hear that you are having such a positive experience at Sunshine and are super proud to hear you feel we are providing a…read more
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Review from C C (Mother of Child) published on 16 August 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We love Sunshine Nursery! Our son previously went to Sunshine, and our daughter has just finished her Sunshine journey to start School in September. It's such a welcoming, family environment with lots of variety in the activities for the children. The staff are friendly, helpful and caring; they really
know the children well and how to get the best from them. The food is delicious with lots of variety. We couldn't be happier with the nursery. Thank you Sunshine!
Reply from Simone Bull, Nursery Manager at Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery
Many thanks for taking the time to leave us a review we very much appreciate it. You have been part of our Sunshine family for many years and we will miss you all very much, but we are so proud to…read more
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Review from R B (Mother of Child) published on 15 August 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The staff at Sunshine are amazing. They take the time to really get to know your child, keep you updated and most importantly make nursery fun. They always put safety first whilst still allowing the children to explore and develop, and the range of activities they put on is brilliant including external
providers putting on drama/music classes. Our daughter loves her days at Sunshine and happily runs in every morning to the staff who are always so welcoming.
Reply from Simone Bull, Nursery Manager at Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave us a review. I am extremely proud of the team here and it is wonderful to hear your experience at Sunshine has been so positive.
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Review from E D (Mother of Child) published on 27 March 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Absolutely amazing nursery! Small and very home-like vibes.
The manager and girls are absolutely amazing! My son settled without any problems and each morning he is very excited to go back.
All girls are always going above and beyond to help you.
Food for babies is absolutely delicious, my son always
has been a “foodie" and nursery is continuing with his amazing food journey.
Overall, absolutely highly recommended for babies.
Reply from Simone Bull, Nursery Manager at Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery
Thank you so much for taking the time to submit a review. We are extremely proud to hear your feedback and are so happy that your journey so far at Sunshine has been a positive one!
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Review from Erick M (Father of Child) published on 27 September 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Just a brilliant place for our little one to find his feet. They allow him to flourish to be a confident young boy.
The team always recognised his strengths and weaknesses and worked to focus on what made him unique.
Reply from Ritika Agarwal, Nursery Owner at Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery
Myself and the team are so pleased that you feel this way. As a small nursery, we pride ourselves on knowing every child really well and love to hear that your child flourished at Sunshine! Thank you…read more
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Review from May T (Mother of Child) published on 20 September 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Sunshine is a lovely little nursery where all the staff are always so friendly and warm. My boy had a really lovely relationship with all the staff members and we’ll be so sad to leave. I always got good updates on the app and from the staff and my son was always happy on pickup. I’d absolutely recommend
this nursery for the staff, but also if you'd like a smaller, more intimate setting.
Reply from Simone Bull, Nursery Manager at Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave us a review, your feedback is so important to us and we are super proud to hear how much your son has enjoyed his time at Sunshine. Thank you for your…read more
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Review from G W (Mother of Child) published on 14 September 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Sunshine Nursery isn't just a nursery, its a home from home where your children learn, grow and develop, setting strong foundations for life. Both of my girls have been to the nursery and absolutely loved it. The manager is the 'bricks and mortar' of the nursery, ensuring every child's needs are met
whether big or small. She is supportive in every way possible and runs a wonderful team of people who have the same values. The wonderful cook provides healthy and nutritional meals for the children which encouraged both of my girls to try new things and gave them a love for all food. After 7 years I am extremely sad to say goodbye. Thank you for helping me raise my girls so beautifully, I will be forever grateful.
Reply from Simone Bull, Nursery Manager at Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery
Thank you so much for taking the time to write a review for us, we really appreciate it. The girls have been a total joy to look after and have brought so much fun and laughter to Sunshine! I am so…read more
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Review from Natalie S (Mother of Child) published on 5 September 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Sunshine is a lovely nursery with lovely, caring staff! From the moment I walked in and met the manager, I knew that it was the right setting for my children and that they would be supported and cared for. It made going back to work so much easier knowing that my children would be looked after so well.
I love hearing about all the exciting things the children have done each day!
We are sadly finishing our Sunshine journey this month after 6 years and two boys as my youngest starts school. We will be very sad to leave and will miss the staff!
Reply from SIMONE BULL, Nursery Manager at Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery
Thank you so much for taking the time to write a review. It's been an absolute pleasure looking after both of your boys and getting to know you all as a family, we will miss seeing you all each week…read more
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Review from Estelle T (Mother of Child) published on 8 August 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery is a lovely and happy place for children to be. Staff are always friendly, smiling and ready to look after a child. My daughter is always clean every time I pick her up. I'm pleased with their delicate work over there.
Reply from Simone, Nursery Manager at Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery
Many thanks for your review, we are so pleased to hear your daughter is happy here at Sunshine!
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Current Review Score: 9.8 (9.833)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.8 (9.833) out of 10 for Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery 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 15 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 15 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 4.833 for Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery is calculated as follows: ( (151 Excellents x 5) + (28 Goods x 4) + (1 Satisfactorys x 3) ) ÷ 180 Ratings = 4.833
  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 Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery is based on 15 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 35 number of registered child places is 7, which has been reached with 15 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

Please contact us for latest vacancies.

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Awards / Recognitions (0)

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Meet the Team (2)

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Simone Bull

Job Title: Nursery Manager Joined: 2002

Simone is the Nursery Manager and has worked at Sunshine for over 20 years.
She has a Foundation degree In Early Years and is Sunshine's Designated Safeguarding Lead.

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Stephanie-Knott Saunders

Job Title: Deputy Manager Joined: 2023

Steph is part of the Management team - as Deputy Manager.
She is the Deputy Safeguarding officer and also Special Education Needs Co-ordinator.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery

What is the Age Range of Children that Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery accepts?

Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery accepts Children aged from 0 years 4 months to 5 years 0 months.

What Days & Hours is Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery Open?

Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery is open: 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.

How many Children does Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery have capacity for?

Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery has capacity for a total of 35 Children.

How far is Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery to the centre of Southampton?

0.7 mile(s) as the crow flies, distance by road may be significantly further.

Information on this page is displayed without responsibility for its accuracy on the part of daynurseries.co.uk. Please contact Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Sunshine Pre-School and Day Nursery has an Enhanced Service - more info.