Hythe
Nursling
Basingstoke
Southampton
Hythe
Little Shipmates @ the Crescent
At Little Shipmates @ The Crescent in Hythe, we provide a warm, nurturing and inspiring environment designed to help your child thrive - socially, emotionally and educationally. Our setting is part of the Little Shipmates Family of nurseries, known locally for bringing quality childcare and early learning to families across Hampshire.
Discover a world of play, learning and exploration with Little Shipmates @ The Crescent
Wednesday
Monday
Friday
8am - 6pm
8am - 6pm
8am - 6pm
8am - 6pm
8am - 6pm
Tuesday
Thursday
At Little Shipmates Pre-School, every day is an opportunity for children to explore, imagine and grow. Our purpose-built rooms are filled with light, colour and carefully chosen resources, while our garden invites outdoor play and hands-on learning in a safe, inspiring space.
Children enjoy hands-on activities that spark imagination and curiosity, from creative arts and sensory play to outdoor challenges and nature-based learning. These experiences are designed to help children develop problem-solving skills, independence and a love of learning, while supporting social and emotional growth.
The nursery’s experienced staff build strong, trusting relationships with each child, guiding and encouraging them in ways that feel natural and reassuring. Families are welcomed as partners in their child’s learning journey, with regular updates and open communication helping children feel secure and celebrated every day.
At Little Shipmates Pre-School, children thrive in a nurturing and stimulating environment where play, exploration and meaningful connections prepare them confidently for their next stage of learning.
Meet Our Managers
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I have worked for the Little Shipmates Family since September 2017 and started my journey as an apprentice. I qualified in April 2019 then progressed within my career as Preschool Room Leader, then as Deputy in 2022
. During this time I have had two of my own children that have been a part of the Little Shipmates Family.
Childcare is a very rewarding career and I couldn’t picture myself in a different environment. I love to work closely with parents and make a difference to not only the child, but the parents life too.
I want to support in making a strong environment in which every child can thrive in, no matter their ability.
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I joined the company in 2021, beginning my journey as Manager at Little Shipmates Day Nursery before going on to support both nursery settings in Hythe. I am now proudly and permanently based at The Crescent, where I truly love what I do.
I am passionate about developing a nurturing, inclusive setting where children can thrive, families feel supported, and our team feels valued and inspired to grow.
Monday 8am - 6pm
Tuesday 8am - 6pm
Little Shipmates @ The Crescent, Hythe, Southampton, SO45 6ET
Wednesday 8am - 6pm
Thursday 8am - 6pm
Friday 8am - 6pm
Key Highlights at Little Shipmates @ the Crescent:
Fresh, healthy menu
Named key worker
Forest School Activities
Parent Engagement
Outdoor Space
Sleep Room
A Place to Belong
Here at Shipmates, our curriculum consists of three aspirations designed to nurture confident, curious and resilient children who are well prepared for their future.
We place a strong emphasis on independence, supporting children at every stage to develop essential life skills such as self-care, making choices and taking responsibility for their routines, both at nursery and at home.
Alongside this, we foster a genuine enthusiasm to learn by creating inspiring environments, following children’s interests and building strong partnerships with families to make learning meaningful and relevant.
We are equally committed to supporting children’s emotional wellbeing, helping them to recognise, understand and regulate their feelings, develop empathy for others and build resilience when faced with challenges.
Through the guidance of dedicated key persons, children are encouraged to try, persevere and grow in a safe, supportive and exciting environment.
Ages & Funding
We welcome children from 3 months up to school age, providing care that grows with your child. We accept a range of early years funding, including two-, three- and 30-hour funding support, to help make childcare affordable.
Whether your child is beginning their first nursery experience or preparing for school, we tailor our programme to support confident, curious learners.
Ask the Nursery for a copy of our helpful Funding FAQ’s.
Parent Partnership
At Shipmates, we truly value our parent partnerships. We believe that strong relationships and open communication are key to a positive nursery experience for both children and parents.
We actively encourage parental involvement and love welcoming families into the nursery through a variety of events throughout the year, such as Mother’s and Father’s Day celebrations, Teddy Bear Picnics and more. These events give parents the opportunity to spend time in the rooms with their children, exploring activities and sharing special moments together.
Alongside this, we offer parent evening opportunities during the year to discuss your child’s development, celebrate achievements and plan next steps. From personalised feedback and daily communication to our online learning journals, we keep you closely connected to your child’s day and progress.
Our thorough newsletter keeps you up to date with exciting events and information going on within the Nursery. By sharing information clearly and consistently, we help create a smooth, reassuring routine that fits around family life and supports a calm, confident start for everyone.
Connect with Us
Follow us on Facebook to stay up to date with activities, photos and community moments:
For broader news, insights, and updates from across our wider organisation, be sure to visit our company blog on our website, where we share helpful articles, announcements, and stories that reflect our values and approach to early years education. Together, these channels are a great way to stay informed and feel connected.