First Friends Day Nursery - Eastleigh

Grantham Road, Eastleigh SO50 5PU
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9.9 80 Reviews
  • First Friends Day Nursery - Eastleigh, Eastleigh
This award-winning, family-run day nursery provides premium childcare and support for children aged 3 months to pre-school. Open 51 weeks of the year, from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm, the nursery proudly accepts government-funded childcare places.

Conveniently located on Grantham Road in Eastleigh, this sought-after and highly rated setting offers a warm, nurturing environment where children thrive. With separate rooms for babies, toddlers, and pre-schoolers, and a charming garden space, the nursery has been described by families as a true home-from-home.

The team is dedicated to nurturing a lifelong love of learning in every child. Their approach balances structured activities with opportunities for free play, encouraging confidence, independence, and natural curiosity. Through both guided experiences and child-led exploration, children are supported to develop the skills they need for a smooth and happy transition to school.
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Type of Service

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

Group/Owner

Person in Charge

  • Kieron Hooper (Manager)

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 10

Total Places for Children

  • 42

Age Range

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

Funding & Fees

  • From £46.50 for a half day session to £82.00 for a full day session.

  • 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 home-cooked nutritious snacks 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 07:00-19:00
    Tuesday 07:00-19:00
    Wednesday 07:00-19:00
    Thursday 07:00-19:00
    Friday 07:00-19:00

When Closed

  • Bank Holidays & 1 week at Christmas

Parking

  • They have visitor parking available

First Friends Day Nursery - Eastleigh Reviews (80)

9.9

First Friends Day Nursery - Eastleigh has a Review Score of 9.9 (9.928) out of 10, based on 28 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time First Friends Day Nursery - Eastleigh has 80 reviews.

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Review from Jess C (Mother of Child) published on 21 November 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our son has recently started at First Friends in Eastleigh and we couldn't be happier. We have moved from Kent where he was very settled in his old nursery and we were nervous about how he would be after moving but they've been so welcoming and he has settled really well. He adores the staff and always
comes running out with the biggest smile on his face, chattering away about what he did that day. His confidence is growing and he has made new friends already.
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Review from Narelle W (Mother of Child) published on 17 November 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We are so glad we started our daughter at First Friends in January 2022. She was quite nervous as at 3 years old she had not been left with people she didn't know due to Covid. The lovely staff, smaller setting and homey feel has really helped her to settle. They have done so well to help her transition
and she has so much fun going. The staff are really good at helping her to develop and build confidence and there is great communication with them which as a first time mum leaving her little girl is really appreciated. Thank you so much for looking after our daughter so well.
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Review from B S (Mother of Child) published on 17 November 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We've been with the nursery since 2019, Both my children love the nursery and have a wonderful relationship with the staff. My eldest always runs in smiling without looking back and talks about the staff while we are at home.
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Review from N G (Mother of Child) published on 14 November 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter has been attending this nursery since she was 9months old and she's now 3. She absolutely loves it and all of the staff. It's not too big so she knows everyone and gets a more personal experience. Would definitely recommend.
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Review from C S (Mother of Child) published on 11 November 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We have had all three of our boys at First Friends and it was one the best parenting choices we ever made. From day one they have gone above and beyond to make our boy's experience with them a home away from home. All three of our boys are all so different and their care is always so personal and unique
to them. We can't thank the manager and her wonderful team for all their amazing support and care.
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Review from Chrissie N (Mother of Child) published on 11 November 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We could not be happier that our son goes to First Friends Eastleigh. From staff willingly giving video tours of the nursery during covid lockdowns to adapting to the ever-changing days our son attends, the nursery has been incredibly helpful and flexible. Both parents and children are warmly welcomed
every morning, and staff always take time to give thorough handovers at the end of the day. Our son is always so excited to go to nursery in the mornings and has made lots of friends over the year he has attended. The activities on offer are fantastic and there is always plenty of artwork that can be brought home to decorate the house!
Thank you First Friends Eastleigh for everything you do!
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Review from S B (Mother of Child) published on 11 November 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter has been attending this nursery for around six months now. She absolutely thrives here, she is always so happy to go through the doors to be greeted by her super friendly teachers! If ever she is feeling anxious to go in, the teachers are always so caring towards her and welcome her in with
open arms. I feel so lucky to have got a place here for my daughter and I couldn't imagine her attending anywhere else. Her educational needs are met to a very high standard and she is learning something new every day. The food is healthy and tasty also which she really enjoys with a wide variety which is important. My daughter is always so excited to get ready for the day to go to nursery which as a parent is so important that your child goes somewhere where she feels comfortable and I genuinely feel she is so safe here and the teachers are also so lovely on pick up and always answer any questions and give a good handover. I would recommend any child to go here!
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Review from A C (Mother of Child) published on 11 November 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My child has been attending First Friends Eastleigh for two years and looks forward to going every time. Their confidence with social situations has blossomed and they always come out at the end of the day smiling. The staff are incredibly nurturing and understanding of the children at the nursery and
provide a range of activities to suit everyone and put goals in place to help my child to continue to develop. The staff are all patient and supportive and make me as a parent feel secure and confident that my child is well cared for and encouraged to grow and learn. Thank you First Friends for being so fantastic and a staple in my child's life!
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Review from Rosie P (Mother of Child) published on 7 November 2022 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son has attended First Friends for six months now and loves it! I can't thank the staff enough for the care they provide him. The staff provide brilliant activities for his early development, which encouraged him to walk and talk. My son always goes into nursery happy and comes out happy too! He
has a lovely relationship with lots of the staff at First Friends, which I appreciate.
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Review from Lisa C (Mother of Child) published on 25 October 2022 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Where do I begin! I'm not even sure I can put into words how wonderful this nursery is. My daughter has been attending for over a year and a half and absolutely loves it there, and now my son has just started. All staff are just so caring and friendly and I feel 100% comfortable knowing my children
are safe, happy and learning. It has the feeling of a small family-run nursery, with excellent provision and opportunity for the children to learn, explore and make friends. I thank my lucky stars I found it and highly recommend to everyone I know.
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Review from C T (Mother of Child) published on 24 April 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our baby daughter has been at First Friends for nearly 3 months and we are so pleased with how the staff have helped her settle in. They could not have done more to help her with weaning (they have a cook on-site) and milk, and have been very accommodating with opening hours and last-minute changes
due to our working demands. The staff are very professional and communication with them is excellent.


The fun activities she gets up to are diverse and inspire our playtime at home too.


I would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone!

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Review from Leanne B (Mother of Child) published on 19 April 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son has attended First Friends nursery for over a year now and the staff couldn’t do more to make my son feel welcome. We are kept up to date with his progress and the activities he takes part in through out the day.
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Review from Blandine K (Mother of Child) published on 2 December 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
It is the best place for my daughter to learn and practice more activities, she was shy girl but now. She is so confident to speak and play with other kids, she developed more skills since she is there.
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Review from Amy C (Mother of Child) published on 24 May 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our daughter has been attending First Friends Eastleigh since February. She started attending at 9 months old. She settled so quickly and immediately seemed comfortable and happy attending. She bonded very quickly with all the staff and always has a lovely day. We love seeing what she's been up to on
the online journal and hearing about her day when we pick her up. The staff are all fantastic and so friendly. It feels like I'm having a chat with a friend when I collect her. I would highly recommend First Friends. It has a lovely, welcoming feel and the children get involved in so many varied activities. I am so pleased we chose to send our daughter there!
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Review from Simone B (Mother of Child) published on 13 May 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter started at nursery just a couple of weeks ago. We were really nervous about how she’d cope with the nursery as she was a lockdown baby and had limited contact with anyone over the last 11 months. However, just two weeks in and she has settled really well and is super smiley when she gets
home. The team at First Friends worked so hard to make sure she settled well right from the first settling in session. They kept my mind at ease also by sending regular updates which made leaving her so much easier. We have seen a massive difference in her personality and she’s been so much more confident when meeting up with friends and family. Thank you First Friends.
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Review from Sheena C (Mother of Child) published on 2 May 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I cannot recommend First Friends Day Nursery - Eastleigh highly enough. We had originally registered our one year old with a different nursery but switched to First Friends Day Nursery - Eastleigh who were recommended by a friend and we are so glad we did. From our initial phone calls and virtual tour,
I could tell that the staff really care and they are very professional and safety conscious. Nothing is too much trouble and communication is excellent. Our son has been attending for a month and has settled so quickly. He comes home really happy from nursery, eats and naps well there and has formed strong bonds with the staff. If you are looking for a warm, homely nursery, who will treat your child as an individual, this is the right place. The baby room has a small capacity and there is a separate sleep room which is ideal for babies who need their quiet time and who get overwhelmed easily. There are lots of fun activities too and the garden has recently been re-done which our son loves playing in.
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Review from Tabitha H (Mother of Child) published on 2 May 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son has only been going a short while, however he loves it there. He is always happy to attend and never wants to come home. The staff are really friendly and make you feel very welcome. It was a different experience being shown around via video but worked well. Although the garden is small compared
to some settings, this doesn’t effect the quality of care. The children get taken to the park regularly. My son is looking forward to starting forest school.
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Review from Zak S (Father of Child) published on 20 April 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I cannot rate First Friends Day Nursery - Eastleigh highly enough, my son has attended since he was a baby and he is now three. He may say he doesn’t like going but we know this just isn’t true when he comes out at the end of the day, he’s so excited to tell us all the things he’s been doing during
the day and he always talks about the friends he has there too. The staff are brilliant and all are so happy and welcoming in the mornings and keep us informed of what’s happened in the day, they have helped him develop is social skills along with hitting other developmental milestones.
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Review from Emma R (Mother of Child) published on 20 April 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Such a lovely and friendly team! I’m always kept up to date with my daughters development either through observations via the app or when I pick up. Communication is always fantastic whether that’s through message, email or in person, the Facebook page is also a lovely place to see pictures or videos
of my daughter playing during the day. All the staff are very enthusiastic when planning activities as well as getting involved with dressing up for Halloween or World Book Day. Such a wonderful environment for children!
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Review from Sarah T (Mother of Child) published on 4 April 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We have used First Friends Day Nursery - Eastleigh since a few months after it opened. We went to have a look around beforehand and felt a good feeling immediately, prices seemed inline with the area. We took our first child along as I was heavily pregnant with my second child and realised I would need
a bit of time with just my new addition. Our second started also attending the same hours, one full day and one half day a week a few months after. The staff are engaged with the children and we get an update of their day on collection. They have also been very accommodating when we were moving home during the pandemic and squeezed our little ones in when our childcare fell through. The socialisation and fun filled days do my children the world of good, they come home happily tired from the day. The one downside to the nursery is parking as it is very limited and can create a queue at busier times. I would certainly recommend First Friends Day Nursery - Eastleigh to anyone.
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Current Review Score: 9.9 (9.928)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.9 (9.928) out of 10 for First Friends Day Nursery - Eastleigh is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  1. The Average Rating is 4.9 out of 5 from 28 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 28 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 4.928 for First Friends Day Nursery - Eastleigh is calculated as follows: ( (311 Excellents x 5) + (21 Goods x 4) + (1 Poors x 2) ) ÷ 333 Ratings = 4.928
  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 Day Nursery - Eastleigh is based on 28 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 42 number of registered child places is 8.4, which has been reached with 28 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)

Meet the Team (1)

Kieron

Kieron Hooper

Job Title: Nursery Manager

Hi, I have been in early years since 2014, when I qualified as a Nursery Educator. Since then, I've worked across a range of settings, steadily climbing the ladder to become Nursery Manager in 2022. Alongside my hands-on experience, I also hold a degree in Early Years Childhood Studies with a 2:1.


When I'm not at nursery, you’ll find me exploring new places or cheering on my beloved Portsmouth FC.

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