First Friends Nursery School - Basingstoke

The Scout Hut, Hanmore Road, Chineham, Basingstoke RG24 8PJ
Review Us
9.7 65 Reviews
  • First Friends Nursery School - Basingstoke, Basingstoke
This highly-rated and much-loved nursery school in Chineham, Basingstoke, provides premium childcare and early education for children aged 12 months to five years. Open during term time from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm, Monday to Friday, the nursery proudly offers government-funded childcare places.

Conveniently located near local schools, the nursery is ideal for families with older siblings, making the morning and afternoon school runs easier. For those travelling by car, a spacious on-site car park ensures smooth and stress-free drop-offs and pick-ups.

The nursery’s approach combines structured learning with opportunities for free play, supporting each child's development through both guided activities and independent exploration. This balanced method encourages confidence, curiosity, and readiness for school.

The dedicated team brings years of experience in early childhood education, providing a warm, welcoming, and engaging environment where children can truly thrive.

Families can choose from a variety of flexible booking options, including:

Breakfast Club: 8:30 am – 9:00 am

Morning Session: 9:00 am – 12:00 noon (snack provided)

Afternoon Session: 12:00 noon – 3:00 pm (lunch provided)

Full Day: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm (lunch and snack provided). Minimum book pattern per week is either one full day or two half-day sessions.
This nursery school offers a nurturing start to a lifelong love of learning.
Show First Friends Nursery School - Basingstoke on the Map

Type of Service

  • Nursery School
  • Open term time
  • Sessional Day Care

Group/Owner

Person in Charge

  • Faye Griffiths (Manager)

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 10

Total Places for Children

  • 40

Age Range

  • from 1 years 0 months
  • to 5 years 0 months

Funding & Fees

  • From £21.50 for a half-day session to £44 for a full day session (9am-3pm). Includes snacks and lunch.
    We also have a breakfast club from 8.30am-9am for £5.

  • Our prices include:


    Enhanced Curriculum:
    High-quality, trained educators, Movement & Mindfulness sessions, Earth Explorers sessions, Home learning, Makaton , Family events & celebrations, High-quality learning resources.


    Fuel for Learning:
    Fresh snacks and lunch tailored to each child's dietary, allergy, & cultural preferences


    Everyday Essentials:
    Summer hats, Sun cream, Toothbrush, Nappies & wipes, and T-Shirts for enhanced curriculum sessions.

Opening Times

  • Monday 08:30-15:00
    Tuesday 08:30-15:00
    Wednesday 08:30-15:00
    Thursday 08:30-15:00
    Friday 08:30-15:00

When Closed

  • School Holidays

Parking

  • They have ample parking on the grounds of the nursery.

First Friends Nursery School - Basingstoke Reviews (65)

9.7

First Friends Nursery School - Basingstoke has a Review Score of 9.7 (9.654) out of 10, based on 16 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time First Friends Nursery School - Basingstoke has 65 reviews.

Overall Experience
  • 55
  • 9
  • 1
  • 0
  • 0
Date Published
  • 65
  • 3
  • 9
  • 16
  • 49
Reviewer Connection to First Friends Nursery School - Basingstoke
  • 56
  • 7
  • 1
  • 1
Total of 65, showing 1-20
Review from M U (Grandmother of Child) published on 15 October 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
This nursery is outstanding. The care and attention each member of staff give the children is fantastic. You could not find a more safe, fun and caring nursery to leave your child. The staff form a great relationship with the children, and are very hands on. The children get plenty tof fresh air playing
outside and the security is excellent. Daily feedback is consistant and they are always keen to tell you the highlights of your childs day when you collect them.
Highly recommend.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Benedicta C (Mother of Child) published on 12 September 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 3.0 out of 5
I am genuinely happy with my child's progress so far. But I wish there would be a better way of giving information about what to expect and what is going on. I always check the the app to find out when school starts for September 2025 session and couldn't find any information. I had to call the school
and I was advised to check social media. What if I am not on social media?
I sincerely wish information is shared either in a messaging group app for parents or the app.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Derya T (Mother of Child) published on 17 June 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter has started there when she was 21 months old. She has settled within 1 week. All teacher and management are amazing. They always smiley and helpful. My daughter is happy to go there. Of course I am happy as a mum. Thank you for supporting to our kids
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Rekha A (Mother of Child) published on 7 May 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I'm absolutely delighted with First Friends Nursery - it's been a game-changer for my little one! The staff are like family, always warm and welcoming. They've helped my child grow in ways I never thought possible, and I love seeing the excitement in their eyes when they talk about their day. The nursery
environment is clean, safe, and stimulating, with engaging activities that foster learning and creativity. The staff are attentive, patient, and genuinely invested in each child's well-being. I appreciate the regular updates and communication, keeping me informed about my child's progress. What impresses me most is the nursery's ability to make my child feel loved, supported, and confident. I feel so grateful to have found such a wonderful place. I wholeheartedly recommend First Friends Nursery to anyone looking for a nurturing and supportive environment for their child. The staff's dedication, passion, and love for childcare shine through in everything they do.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Sanath R (Father of Child) published on 27 February 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
First Friends Nursery School - Basingstoke is a happy place for my child. He always looks forward to going to school even at weekends he is asking to go to school. My son always sings the songs they do in school and many many things he learns every day. We can see his improvement day by day. We are
very happy that my son is in safe hands and well looked after. Lots of love from our family to the team.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from I Y (Mother of Child) published on 27 February 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We are so happy with all the staff. My daughter started more than one year ago in the little room. My daughter was 2 years old when she started and the first week was so difficult for her but with her key worker and other staff members, she soon everything was perfect! She loves to go to First Friends
Nursery School.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from M O (Mother of Child) published on 13 January 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
First friend nursery is a happy place for my children. They always look forward to each day at school. They are always happy when they get back home. Always have something to say about how their day went. The songs they sang, what they were taught and about how they played with their friends. My daughter
talks about how she made her auntie's hair, this makes me laugh always. My son talks about his aunty cuddling him whenever he feels sleepy and how she feeds him whenever he wants to eat. He talks about how his aunty help him change his nappies as well. They also talk about the snacks they give to them and how they love it and wants me to get it for them. I am very happy that my children are in safe hands and well looked after. Well done to the entire team. Much love from my family to the team.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from B Q (Mother of Child) published on 20 December 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
My daughter has been attending First Friends for the past year. She thoroughly enjoys it and has made a lot of friends. She is very into crafts and drawing and the preschool has so many activities like this that she loves to do. She is learning every day how to control her emotions and the staff handle
her very well.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Amy J (Mother of Child) published on 20 December 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I love First Friends. From the day my child started there, I knew it was a safe, loving and fun environment for him to learn and develop. He is constantly monitored and encouraged to learn new skills and he is also kept under excellent care. They have a good ratio of staff to children so I know my child
is always kept safe and looked after.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from C B (Mother of Child) published on 3 December 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
Our boy started this September and was the youngest one. It was daunting for us parents leaving our only child with daycare but the nursery has been very reassuring and has updated us whenever our boy cries when dropping him off.
We are very happy with the nursery and our boy seems to be enjoying
it there Always comes out with a smile every time we collect him. Thank you for all your hard work.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from I B (Mother of Child) published on 3 December 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Friendly Staff, you can rest assure your child is always well protected and looked after by the way they are always on top of the details by informing you before and after pick up on important information about your child. They offer extra support for parents. Always giving great ideas for development
at home.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Rachael T (Mother of Child) published on 22 November 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Amazing nursery highly recommends it. There is one lady who is incredible in Explorers, communication is amazing, couldn't be more grateful. All the staff are lovely and very honest and amazing with the children. Lots of activities for the children to do, lots of variety.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from J T (Mother of Child) published on 5 August 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
First friends Basingstoke has been great with my little girl. Only thing I would say is the new nursery manager isn't very great at responding to emails. My little girls speech has coke in leaps and bounds since coming to friends first
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from R C (Mother of Child) published on 19 February 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Such a lovely home away from home style nursery. Staff are always helpful and kind and show genuine care for the children with them.
I wouldn't hesitate to recommend the nursery to others. My child is happy here.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from K T (Mother of Child) published on 5 December 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter has attended First Friends Nursery in Basingstoke for just over a year. I have nothing bad to say about it at all. She is doing amazingly and has come so far since starting. My eldest also attended and did great there too.
The staff are very friendly and couldn’t be any more helpful. It’s
a brilliant nursery.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Joanne F (Mother of Child) published on 5 December 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Both my children have attended First Friends Basingstoke, one is there currently. We absolutely love the nursery and its dedicated staff, it’s such a warm nurturing environment. You get a real sense that the staff love their job and go the extra mile for the children.
So glad I chose First Friends!
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Adam B (Father of Child) published on 1 December 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our daughter has been attending First Friends Chineham nursery for over a year and she absolutely loves it.
What makes this nursery so special is the staff. They really care and bond with the children, engaging with them on all levels.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Juliet I (Mother of Child) published on 1 December 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The nursery consistently upholds high standards by fostering an environment where children thrive in independent activities while prioritizing their safety. The dedication of the staff is commendable, as they not only provide assistance but also offer valuable support. The impact of this nurturing environment
is evident in my daughter's enthusiasm and continuous praise for the guidance and care she receives. The nursery's commitment to creating a supportive and engaging atmosphere reflects its effectiveness in nurturing children's development and fostering a positive and memorable experience for both children and their families.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from A D (Mother of Child) published on 13 November 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Very pleased with the nursery. The staff are all very polite, understanding and helpful whenever we have a question. My child loves going there and he loves spending time with the teachers. The activities during the day are very interesting and the children seem to be having lots of fun. We love the
daily pictures on the social media page and can't wait to see them each day.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Emma B (Mother of Child) published on 18 October 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Even though my child has only been going to this preschool since September, they are very happy there and come out smiling every time I pick them up. All staff I have spoken to have been very friendly, easy to talk to and caring over my child. My child comes out with things they have learnt already,
and it makes me so happy they are taking it all in and learning at the same time. I’m so pleased we have picked this preschool for them and pleased they will spend their time here before they start school.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Current Review Score: 9.7 (9.654)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.7 (9.654) out of 10 for First Friends Nursery School - Basingstoke is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  1. The Average Rating is 4.7 out of 5 from 16 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 4.654 for First Friends Nursery School - Basingstoke is calculated as follows: ( (138 Excellents x 5) + (36 Goods x 4) + (13 Satisfactorys x 3) + (1 Poors x 2) ) ÷ 188 Ratings = 4.654
  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 First Friends Nursery School - Basingstoke 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 40 number of registered child places is 8, 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.

Loading

Loading Loading

Loading

Loading

Awards / Recognitions (0)

Meet the Team (1)

Faye

Faye Griffiths

Job Title: Nursery Manager

With a background in childcare spanning over two decades, I'm proud to lead our beloved nursery in Eastleigh. I've been an integral part of the First Friends family, starting my journey as a nursery manager at our Basingstoke branch.


My commitment to excellence led me to temporarily manage our nursery in Barford St Martin for a fulfilling six-month stint. Qualified with an NNEB in 1994, I'm passionate about nurturing movement skills in children.


I believe these skills not only enhance cognitive abilities but also boost self-esteem and resilience.

Frequently Asked Questions about First Friends Nursery School - Basingstoke

What is the Age Range of Children that First Friends Nursery School - Basingstoke accepts?

First Friends Nursery School - Basingstoke accepts Children aged from 1 year 0 months to 5 years 0 months.

What Days & Hours is First Friends Nursery School - Basingstoke Open?

First Friends Nursery School - Basingstoke is open: Monday 08:30-15:00, Tuesday 08:30-15:00, Wednesday 08:30-15:00, Thursday 08:30-15:00, Friday 08:30-15:00.

How many Children does First Friends Nursery School - Basingstoke have capacity for?

First Friends Nursery School - Basingstoke has capacity for a total of 40 Children.

How far is First Friends Nursery School - Basingstoke to the centre of Basingstoke?

2.5 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 First Friends Nursery School - Basingstoke to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. First Friends Nursery School - Basingstoke has an Enhanced Service - more info.