There is a moment we see every single day, and it never gets old. A little one who once clung nervously to a parent at the door comes bounding in, coat half on, already heading straight for their favourite corner of the room. No looking back. That quiet shift, from anxious to at home, is what we work towards for every child who comes through our doors. We have been part of this community for over forty years, and that sense of belonging, for children and families alike, is what Rainbow Corner has always been about.
A Family-Run “Home from Home” Since 1983
Rainbow Corner has been a trusted part of the local community since 1983, and we are proud to still be a true family-run business today. We are not part of a corporate chain. We are a small, close-knit team who genuinely know the families we serve, housed in the same beautiful converted Victorian house on Victoria Road North that we have called home for over four decades.
We simply want every child who walks through our doors to feel safe, seen and genuinely happy to be here. We are proud to have been rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted, and after more than forty years in this community, we like to think that experience counts for something.
Three Age Groups, Gently Building on the Last
Children grow quickly, and every stage brings something new to celebrate. Our childcare rooms are purposefully designed so your little one can move through them naturally, always supported and always at their own pace:
- Grasshoppers (0 to 2 years): Our baby unit is bright, airy and homely, featuring dedicated sleep and sensory rooms. We follow your baby’s usual routine as closely as possible. Nappies, wipes, snacks, a hot lunch, and high tea are all included, and we have secure facilities for storing breast milk, too.
- Ladybirds (2 to 3 years): Here, children grow in confidence and independence. They begin making their own choices about play and developing vital self-care skills. A calm, quiet space is always available for afternoon naps when little ones need to recharge.
- Butterflies (3 years plus): Our pre-school room prepares children for Reception through a beautiful mix of child-led play and gentle adult-led activities. We build the skills and confidence they need for big school in a way that always feels like fun.
How We Help Little Ones Learn and Grow
Learning Through Play, the Free-Flow Way
We believe children learn best when they are genuinely excited about what they are doing. So, rather than directing their every move, we let them lead.
Your child gets to decide where they play, what they explore and who they play alongside. We set up rich, stimulating spaces and follow the child’s lead, with our team right alongside them, ready to seize those wonderful teaching moments and gently stretch each child’s thinking a little further.
A Curriculum Built Around Your Child
Every child at Rainbow Corner follows their own unique learning journey. We follow our own Rainbow Corner Curriculum, built around the nationally recognised Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) guidance. This allows us to track each child’s progress, celebrate what they do brilliantly, and step in with support wherever they need it.
Values That Grow With Every Child
We want children to leave us not only ready for school, but kind, curious and confident in themselves. Our core values: Respect, Resilience, Kindness, Inclusiveness, Aspiration and Confidence, guide us every single day.
To bring these to life for toddlers, we use our very own Value Heroes. Characters like Kind Kai and Confident Connie help children talk about feelings, make good choices and celebrate their own lovely moments of emotional growth.
Our Team and Your Family
A Team That Truly Cares
Each child has their own dedicated Key Person who takes personal responsibility for their learning and wellbeing, building the trusting relationship that helps little ones feel safe and settled.
Importantly, every single member of our team is trained in Paediatric First Aid, so you can relax knowing your child is in the safest possible hands. We also keep our staff ratios above the minimum requirements wherever we can, because individual attention is where the real magic happens.
(For children who need a little more support, our dedicated SENCO works closely with the whole team, families and outside professionals to ensure every child gets the best possible start).
A Real Partnership with Parents
You know your child better than anyone, and we see parents as partners in their journey. Our open-door policy keeps you closely involved, and our ParentAdmin app lets you easily follow your little one’s day – meals, naps, photos, and all – with a friendly verbal handover at the end of every session.
Come and See Us for Yourself
We would love to welcome your family to Rainbow Corner. The best way to feel whether a nursery is right for your child is simply to step inside, look around, and say hello.
To join our waiting list or arrange a personal tour of our Southsea nursery, please get in touch through our Contact Page. We cannot wait to meet you and your little one!
