Our Awards & Recognition
Recognition that reflects our values
At Hopscotch, our focus has always been clear. Children who feel safe and confident. Families who feel supported. Teams who feel valued and invested in.
When that work is recognised, it means a great deal. Not for the badge itself, but for what it represents.
Latest recognition
NMT Power List Awards 2026
We’re incredibly proud to share that two of our leaders have been named finalists in the Nursery Management Today (NMT) Power List Awards 2026.
- Freya Derrick MBE CEO of the Year (Medium Group)
- Bliss Abbott (Greenwood) HR Director of the Year
These nominations reflect the passion, innovation, and people-first leadership that shape everything we do at Hopscotch.
A year of meaningful progress
Over the past year, we’ve achieved some important milestones together:
Opening Hampshire’s first beach and nature nursery, Harbourside, creating inspiring outdoor learning experiences
Bringing our teams together through an Employee Retreat to reconnect and invest in our people
Providing every colleague with access to a dedicated mental wellbeing platform
A team effort
These recognitions belong to our whole team.
Our colleagues are the heart of Hopscotch. Their care, commitment, and energy bring our nurseries to life every day.
We’re honoured to stand alongside so many inspiring leaders in early years, and we look forward to the awards in April.
We have proudly been awarded
We're proud to have been recognised as a Top 20 Nursery Group by daynurseries.co.uk four times.
2022 · 2023 · 2024 · 2026
We are proud to have been recognised as a Top 20 Nursery Group by daynurseries.co.uk for three consecutive years.
These awards are based on parent reviews. That matters most to us. They reflect the trust families place in us, the warmth children experience each day, and the consistency our teams bring across every setting.
Portsmouth & Chichester Apprenticeship Awards 2025
Large Employer of the Year
In 2025, Hopscotch Day Nurseries was named Large Employer of the Year.
Apprenticeships are central to how we grow. We invest in structured training, mentoring, and clear progression pathways so people can build long-term careers in early years. Many of our leaders began their journey with us as apprentices. Supporting talent from the beginning strengthens our nurseries and ensures children are cared for by confident, skilled professionals.
NDNA Awards 2026
‘Awe and Wonder’ Finalist – Harbourside Nursery
Harbourside Nursery is a proud finalist in the National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) Awards 2026.
This recognition celebrates the rich outdoor experiences that shape daily life at Harbourside. Set within its coastal surroundings and on-site nature reserve, children are immersed in an environment that encourages curiosity, exploration, and connection with the natural world. The beach, harbour, and nature reserve offer ever-changing moments of discovery. No two days look the same.
What this means for families
Awards are lovely to receive. But what matters most is what sits behind them. Creating the foundation for confident children and calm parents is what we’re most proud of.
Consistent,
nurturing
relationships
Strong
communication with families
Investment in training and development
A culture where people stay, grow, and care deeply
Ready to take the first step?
Want to experience what makes Hopscotch different?