Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing)

229-231 Botley Road, Sholing, Southampton SO19 0NL
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9.3 56 Reviews
Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing) nursery is situated on Botley Road in a quiet, residential area. The setting has been recently extended and refurbished and a team of warm and experienced professionals build the children's self-esteem through a child centric ethos.

The setting constantly strives to change to the adapting needs of families. Recently, they have introduced Nature Nursery sessions in local Forestry Commission maintained woodland and a vegan menu to run alongside the usual menu of freshly cooked, wholesome meals.
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Care Provided by Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing)

  • Type of Service
  • Day Nursery – Privately Owned
  • Open all year
  • Full Day Care
  • Sessional Day Care

Good to Know

  • Person in charge
  • Becky Jones (Manager)
  • Number of Childcare Staff
  • 17
  • Total Places for Children
  • 80
  • Age Range
    • from 0 years 3 months
    • to 5 years 0 months
  • Opening Times
  • Monday 07:30-18:00
    Tuesday 07:30-18:00
    Wednesday 07:30-18:00
    Thursday 07:30-18:00
    Friday 07:30-18:00
  • When Closed
  • Bank Holidays & Christmas

Funding & Fees Guide for Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing)

  • Please see website for sessions and prices.


  • Parking
  • The nursery has its own car park.


Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing) Reviews (56)

Total of 56, showing 1-20
9.3

Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing) has a Review Score of 9.3 (9.346) out of 10, based on 22 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing) has 56 reviews.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My son has been going to the nursery since he was 13 months old and he's going to be starting reception this year so we've had good experience of the nursery over the last 3 or 4 years.
The staff have always been amazing, you can tell they really care for the children, the food choices are always great
and he always has such fun when he is there. I will say that since the new manager has taken over as nursery manager it has got even better and any issues with the previous management, such as communication have gone.
I would absolutely recommend this nursery to anyone looking to send their child.

Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing)

Thank you so much for your lovely review. We're so glad to hear that you've had such a positive experience with our team and that your son has enjoyed his time with us. It's wonderful to know that the changes we've made, especially around communication, have made a difference.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

Staff are absolutely lovely. My 15 month old little boy has made friends, sleeps better after being at nursery, is well fed and his social skills have come on leaps and bounds since attending Oct 2024 until present. He rarely shows any reluctance to attend since day one and smiles when I tell him it's
nursery day. My partner also had a stroke recently and everyone was fantastic and supportive. Highly recommend!

Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing)

Thank you for your lovely review! We're so happy to hear your little boy is thriving and enjoying nursery. It means a lot to know we could support your family during a challenging time.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We have had such a wonderful experience with this nursery! The staff are incredibly caring and nurturing, making my little boy feel safe and comfortable every step of the way. They handled his transition between rooms with so much care, ensuring it was at his own pace and that he was fully ready. It's
clear that they truly prioritise the well-being and happiness of the children. I couldn't recommend this nursery enough, it's a fantastic, supportive environment!

Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing)

Thank you for your wonderful review! We're so delighted to hear that your little boy feels safe, comfortable, and well cared for at our nursery. Supporting smooth transitions and ensuring each child's well-being and happiness are our top priorities.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

Overall the nursery is really good , staff are friendly and are always willing to answer any questions and help in anyway that they can . My child has been here for the last 7/8 months and has really thrived in the environment.
The menus that are offered are healthy and home cooked and also dietary
requirements are catered if needed .
The app is very helpful with communications ,invoices and the daily diary of what your child has eaten.

Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing)

Thank you so much for your thoughtful feedback! We're delighted to hear that your child has thrived in our environment and that you've had a positive experience with our staff. It's great to know that our healthy, home-cooked menus and the app have been helpful for you.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

Me and my husband were looking at different nurseries to move our son too, then management changed and everything else seemed to change too. The weird atmosphere was gone. Staff members seemed more upbeat. The actions that have already been put in place by new management are incredible, it's amazing
what the management seem to of achieved in a short space of time.
The communication is WONDERFUL and what every child's parent wants when putting their trust into these practitioners to give my son and all the other children the highest level of care. I cannot fault the pre school team and new management whatsoever, we love them!

Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing)

"Thank you so much for your glowing feedback! We are thrilled to hear that the changes in management have made such a positive impact. We're especially happy to hear that the communication has been wonderful and that you feel confident in the care we provide.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I couldn't recommend this nursery highly enough. Both my children have attended here, my daughter from 2020-2023 and my son currently attends. My eldest has a disability and they went out of their way to help her feel included in all the activities in a safe way. Ensuring there was somebody with her
when in the play area or to encourage her speech and physio. Even now, when she joins me for pick-up, she is welcomed with open arms and a cuddle. My son loves his time here and is eager to join in which makes the drop-off process more enjoyable and stress-free. He eats a full variety of different foods. The little friendships he has made are sweet to witness and the staff are so interactive with him. Reading stories and many fun activities with sand or water. The setting is clean and hygienic and the staff are friendly and easy to speak to. There are always many staff in sight. Overall, I feel we have chosen the best nursery for our children and are very grateful for everything they do.

Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing)

Thank you so much for your heartfelt feedback! We're delighted to hear how positively both your children have experienced our nursery. It's wonderful to know that our team has been able to support your daughter's needs and ensure she feels included, while also providing a welcoming environment for your son. We're thrilled he loves his time with us and is enjoying his activities, friendships, and meals.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 1.0 out of 5

I strongly advise against sending your children to this nursery. Their food and hygiene standards are extremely poor, and the facility has been closed multiple times due to safety violations, which can be verified on the Ofsted website.

Reply from Sonny, Marketing at Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing)

We are truly sorry to hear about your recent experience at Woodberry Nursery. The safety and well-being of every child in our care is something we take very seriously, and your feedback is extremely important to us. We would greatly appreciate the opportunity to discuss this further and investigate the situation. Please reach out to us directly at customerfeedback@familyfirstnurseries.com or 0330 333 1080 so we can address your concerns.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My daughter has attended Woodberry, Sholing since she was 2 years old. She has had every support that a child needs to grow and flourish. She is starting school soon and is experiencing some changes in her home life, all staff have been fantastic in supporting her.
Particularly, the preschool room
their patience and understanding have helped me and my daughter greatly.
I highly recommend Woodberry, Sholing.

Reply from Sonny, Marketing at Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing)

Thank you so much for your heartfelt review! We're thrilled to hear that your daughter has had such a supportive experience at Woodberry, Sholing. It's wonderful that our preschool room staff's patience and understanding have made a positive impact during her transitions. We're so proud of her growth and are honoured to have been a part of her journey. Best of luck to her as she starts school!


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The team at Woodberry are truly amazing! My two daughters have both blossomed so well here and have made such lovely bonds with their key workers and other staff in the rooms. The staff are so helpful and attentive to the children. They are always happy to discuss your child’s development and are all
so friendly and approachable. Both my daughters have come on leaps and bounds with their development since attending nursery, especially their speech. The girls in Caterpillars do a brilliant job teaching the babies Makaton signs to aid their communication from a young age. The staff in pre-school are brilliant and are always doing fun and educational activities with the children. My 3-year-old is doing so well at writing the letters of her name. Woodberry Sholing is a fantastic nursery with lovely staff, I would highly recommend!

Reply from Sid, Senior Marketing Executive at Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing)

Thank you for your wonderful review! We are delighted to hear that your little one is having a lovely experience at our nursery and appreciate your kind words about the team.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We have been really happy with the care and support given to our daughter. She had a tough time when she first started, but developed a good relationship with a key worker who helped her settle. Staff are always happy to chat through how her day has been and feedback on development. We are now more
than comfortable to leave her at nursery knowing she is well cared for.

Reply from Sid, Senior Marketing Executive at Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing)

Thank you for your lovely review! We're thrilled to hear that your daughter has received such wonderful care and support at our nursery. It's heartwarming to know that she has developed a strong bond with her key worker and that you feel comfortable leaving her in our care.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Lovely nursery, staff are very friendly and put lots of fun activities on for the children.

Reply from Sid, Senior Marketing Executive at Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing)

Thank you for your lovely review! We appreciate your kind words about the nursery and the team.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

Nursery staff are very caring and patient with my child. I can see improvements in my child since he started nursery. I can see he has a good time every time in the nursery. I'm happy with Woodberry Day Nursery.

Reply from Sid, Senior Marketing Executive at Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing)

Thank you for your lovely review! We appreciate your kind words about the nursery and the team.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The team at Woodberry Day Nursery are amazing. My daughter has been attending since July '23 when she was only 5 months old.
I believe her attending this nursery has helped her flourish into the happiest little girl.
She gets along with her key person/s and other members of staff and is always excited
to come to nursery.
She has learnt so much here already, I would recommending sending any baby/child here.

Reply from Sid, Senior Marketing Executive at Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing)

Thank you for your lovely review! We appreciate your kind words about the nursery and the team.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The team in Caterpillars and Ladybirds have welcomed us and my son settled so quickly in their care.
He has a smile on his face going into nursery and I love seeing the info on the online log and his observations each week seeing all the new things that he does.

Reply from Sid, Senior Marketing Executive at Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing)

Thank you for your wonderful review! We are delighted to hear that your little one is having a lovely experience at our nursery.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

My little boy has been at Woodberry since Jan 2023. He loves the staff and always goes in with a huge smile on his face. The staff are very engaging and attentive.

Reply from Sidonega Subashan, Senior Marketing Executive at Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing)

Thank you for your lovely review! We appreciate your kind words about the nursery and the team.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My child is very happy at Woodberry Sholing and is met with warmth and cuddles when she is dropped off. She engages in fun activities and eats a lovely range of meals. She is always happy at pickup and buzzing if a little shattered from her full day!
The Early Years practitioners in the toddler room(2
year old) are friendly, fun and are approachable. My child loves them!
My eldest was in Woodberry back in 2019, until 2022 and thrived in the preschool room, they were amazing with her. Now my youngest is halfway through her journey. Many of the staff are still present from my eldest time at Woodberry. As a parent of 2, I wholly recommend Woodberry Sholing for all ages.

Reply from Sid, Senior Marketing Executive at Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing)

Thank you for your wonderful review! We are so delighted to hear that your child is having a lovely experience at the nursery and she enjoys the activities. We also appreciate the lovely feedback about the team and we will pass it on to them.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Great nursery for my daughter, the staff in the baby room are brilliant with my child, she didn’t settle straight away going to nursery but the staff have been brilliant in ensuring she had lots of cuddles and developed a bond with her.
One staff member is an exceptional key worker who I believe has
really helped with my daughter's development within the nursery.
Overall the nursery is brilliant with communication with my daughter and is always there to support her with anything needed for my daughter.

Reply from Sid, Senior Marketing Executive at Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing)

Thank you for your lovely review! It is wonderful to know that our dedicated staff in the baby room have played a key role in helping your daughter settle and develop a strong bond.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 2.0 out of 5

As of August 2023, this nursery has now been rated as "Inadequate" in all 4 areas (personal development; leadership & management, quality of education; behaviour and attitudes) by Ofsted. The Ofsted report also remarked how poor the hygiene standards were at this setting, how pre-school children were
often unsupervised, and that staff were not familiar with safeguarding principles. As a parent, when I tried to point out to the staff that the setting smelled bad, they told me that they couldn't smell it. My child got sick very often during the one year she went to this pre-school, which I have no doubt is due to the poor hygiene. It's great to see that some parents are content with the services provided based on other reviews on this webpage, but I recommend you do your due diligence before enrolling your child in this (or any) childcare setting.

Reply from Sid, Senior Marketing Executive at Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing)

Thank you for your review which is important to us, and we appreciate your feedback, please do contact us at feedback@familyfirstnurseries.com so we can discuss concerns.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Our son started nursery at 2.5 years. We are extremely proud of what he has become - an independent, confident and compassionate young man. His overall development has been wonderful, including his self-feeding, self-hygiene and social skills. All credits go to the team of Woodberry Day Nursery for
their learnings, activities and motivation. The key worker kept us informed about his progress through the nursery app which was very useful, especially on his daily meal update.
We are ever so grateful for the comforts, smiles, cuddles and bonds shared with our son. He will be starting his new school journey soon and surely, will miss you all. As parents, we appreciate all your hard work and we would like to express a heartfelt thank you to each one of you at Woodberry.

Reply from Sid, Senior Marketing Executive at Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing)

Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience with us. We're so glad to have been a part of your son's growth and development. Wishing him all the best on his new school journey!


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We have been using Woodberry Day Nursery since January 2020 and I am so thankful for all the help the staff have given us.
We now have our youngest there, she has been there since June 2022.
The staff are always so kind to our girls but also so lovely to us.
Woodberry is such a lovely nursery. Thank
you for everything you have done and continue to do. You're wonderful.

Reply from Sid, Senior Marketing Executive at Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing)

Thank you for your lovely review! We're grateful to have been a part of your journey since January 2020. It's wonderful to know that our staff has made a positive impact on your family, and we're delighted to have your youngest with us too.


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Current Review Score: 9.3 (9.346)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.3 (9.346) out of 10 for Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing) is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  • a) The Average Rating is 4.3 out of 5 from 22 Reviews in the last 24 months.

  • b) The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 19 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:

  • a) 5 Points are available for the Average Rating from all Reviews in the last 24 months.

    The Average Rating of 4.346 for Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing) is calculated as follows: ( (168 Excellents x 5) + (57 Goods x 4) + (16 Satisfactorys x 3) + (5 Poors x 2) + (17 Very Poors x 1) ) ÷ 263 Ratings = 4.346

  • b) 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 Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing) is based on 19 positive Reviews in the last 24 months and is calculated as per below:

    The 5 points available are broken down as follows:

    • i) 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

    • ii) 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 80 number of registered child places is 16, which has been reached with 19 Positive reviews. Points = 1

  • When a Review is submitted by someone who has previously submitted a Review, only the latest Review will count towards the Review Score.

  • 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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Meet the Team (2)

Becky

Becky Jones

Job Title: Nursery Manager

Joined: 2019

Becky started with us in February 2019, she has worked her way up and is now our manager for Sholing. Becky supports the staff in their development alongside the quality and development of the setting. Becky's passion is for supporting all children and staff to achieve their goals and for children to have the opportunity to learn in a creative and fun environment.

... Read more
Zoe

Zoe Becket

Job Title: Deputy Manager

Zoe has been with the setting since July 2019. She is the setting Deputy Manager and Preschool Room Lead. Zoe is passionate about supporting the children to strive and develop to the best of their ability for their transition to school. Zoe supports the setting alongside Becky to support staff in their professional development and growth.

... Read more

Frequently Asked Questions about Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing)

What is the Age Range of Children that Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing) accepts?

Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing) accepts Children aged from 0 years 3 months to 5 years 0 months.

What Days & Hours is Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing) Open?

Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing) is open: Monday 07:30-18:00, Tuesday 07:30-18:00, Wednesday 07:30-18:00, Thursday 07:30-18:00, Friday 07:30-18:00.

How many Children does Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing) have capacity for?

Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing) has capacity for a total of 80 Children.

How far is Woodberry Day Nursery (Sholing) to the centre of Southampton?

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