About Us
A Small, Friendly Pre-School in the Heart of Ashford Hill
Jiminy Crickets is a warm and welcoming pre-school for children aged 2 years to school age.
We provide a safe, nurturing environment where every child can learn through play and grow in confidence at their own pace. Our qualified and experienced staff create activities that encourage curiosity, imagination and independence — all while making sure every child feels happy and secure.
Because we’re a small setting (just 20 children per session), we really get to know each family. That closeness helps children feel at home, ready for their next step into school and beyond.
Muddy boots and big smiles
Exploring the green, finding bugs, and running free in the fresh air.
Painty fingers and busy hands
Building, creating, and making sense of the world through play.
Stories, songs and laughter
Sparking imagination and confidence in every little voice.
Kindness and friendship
Learning to share, take turns, and look out for one another.
LEARNING THROUGH PLAY
Learning Happens Everywhere
At Jiminy Crickets, children learn best when they’re having fun.
Our days mix structure with freedom, full of play, laughter and discovery.
From nature walks to painting pictures, every moment helps build confidence, curiosity and creativity.
Creative Play
Painting, building, crafting and designing – children express themselves freely and proudly show what they’ve made.
Creativity helps develop fine motor skills, imagination and confidence.
Early Learning Skills
Everyday activities gently introduce early maths and literacy – counting snacks, matching shapes, spotting letters.
Learning happens naturally through fun, familiar play.
Outdoor Adventures
Our enclosed garden and countryside walks give children space to explore, climb, run and wonder.
They learn about nature, seasons and the world around them – all through play.
Stories & Imagination
From storytime circles to make-believe role play, we nurture a love of language and storytelling.
Children build vocabulary, empathy and the confidence to share their own tales.
Friendship & Feelings
Group play helps children build empathy, cooperation and kindness.
We encourage teamwork, taking turns, and celebrating each other’s successes.
Growing Independence
From pouring their own drinks to putting on coats, children are encouraged to try things for themselves.
Those small moments of “I did it!” build self-belief and readiness for school.
Our Classes
Learning, Growing and Having Fun
At Jiminy Crickets, we follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, which focuses on three prime areas of learning.
These are the foundations for everything else your child will experience, helping them communicate, move with confidence, and form positive relationships.
Communication & Language
From chatting at snack time to storytelling in circle time, children are encouraged to listen, talk and share ideas.
We help them grow their vocabulary, express themselves clearly, and enjoy the rhythm and fun of language through songs, stories and play.
Physical Development
Outdoor play, climbing, dancing, and creative activities all help children strengthen their bodies and coordination.
They develop fine motor skills through painting, threading and building, and learn self-care skills like dressing and eating independently.
Personal, Social & Emotional Development
Children learn to understand their feelings, build friendships and develop confidence in who they are.
Through group play and gentle guidance, they discover kindness, cooperation and respect – the cornerstones of happy learning and happy lives.
Why Choose Us
High Standards.
Happy Children.
Trusted Care.
Rated “Good” by Ofsted
Our most recent Ofsted inspection (June 2023) rated Jiminy Crickets as Good in every area – a reflection of our commitment to quality, safety and care.
Qualified, Experienced Staff
Our team holds recognised early years qualifications and regularly updates their training.
This ensures the care and learning we provide always meets the highest standards.
Safe, Supportive Environment
We maintain excellent child-to-staff ratios and strong safeguarding practices.
Every child is encouraged to explore, learn and grow in a setting where they feel secure and valued.
Session Times and Fees
Flexible Sessions to Suit Your Family
We’re open Monday to Friday during Hampshire school terms, offering morning, lunch, and afternoon sessions to fit around your family’s needs.
We recommend a minimum of two sessions per week to help your child settle and flourish.
From September 2025, eligible working families can access up to 15 hours of free childcare per week (over 38 weeks), for children aged from 2 years onwards.
Fees:
£8.00 per hour (ages 3–4)
£8.50 per hour (ages 2–3)
You can pay termly, half-termly or weekly – whichever works best for you.
Morning
9.00 AM – 12.00 PM
Lunch Club
12.00 PM – 1.00 PM
Afternoon
1.00 PM – 3.00 PM
Our Gallery
Life at Jiminy Crickets
Latest News
What’s Happening at Jiminy Crickets
Get In Touch
We’d Love to Hear From You!
Arrange a visit by filling out the form. We’d be delighted to show you around our pre-school and answer any questions.
You’ll find us just across the recreation ground in Ashford Hill.