At Hopscotch, we’re passionate about giving people the support they need to reach their potential – not just the children in our care, but the people who care for them every day.
Work That Shapes Futures
Early years work is often underestimated. In reality, it’s some of the most influential work there is. The relationships you build, the confidence you help grow, and the care you bring to everyday moments can shape how a child sees themselves – and how ready they feel for the world ahead.
Working at Hopscotch means being part of a community that takes that responsibility seriously: warm, professional, and deeply intentional. You’ll be supported to grow – while helping children build the confidence, curiosity, and independence that lasts long after nursery.
Early years work is many things – sometimes all in one day. If you’re someone who brings warmth, energy, and care into a room, you’ll fit right in here.
You won’t just support children today. You’ll help shape who they become tomorrow – through the routines, relationships, language, and encouragement that build lasting confidence.
Across our nurseries and support teams, there are opportunities to build a long-term career – whether you’re just starting out or ready for your next step.
Roles at Hopscotch
We have roles across early years and across the wider support group.
Children thrive when home and nursery feel connected – we build belonging through trusted relationships, clear communication, and real partnership with families.
Career Development
Clear pathways
(so you can see what the “next step” looks like)
Internal promotions
(we love seeing our people thrive)
Training, CPD, and qualifications
Mentoring, support, and regular review
Key Features
When you join Hopscotch, you join a team that takes care seriously – including taking care of our people.
Benefits include:
A day off during your birthday month
Lunch on us
Christmas period closure
Designated inset days
20% off at The Harbourside Cafe
Uniform provided
50% off childcare for permanent contracts
Up to 33 days holiday (full time equivalent)
Recognition and awards
Free access to Open up, a wellbeing service available to you and 3 family members
Access to free training and development opportunities
Cycle to work scheme
Access to all level apprenticeship opportunities
We also offer a refer-a-friend scheme (conditions apply, reach out to our team to learn more).
What it’s like to work here
Our Head of People & Training started with us in 2007 as an apprentice. Here’s how she describes Hopscotch:
“The family approach has always been a critical pillar that makes Hopscotch stand out. Our team is always coming up with new ideas to enrich our nurseries for the children, so we never stand still for long… Our success metric is: ‘Are our children happy and thriving?’ If we can answer ‘Yes!’ then we’ve done an excellent job.”
“Hopscotch’s belief in me… is what has kept me here all these years. I’ve always set out to make a difference to all who join us, providing them with the best support and encouragement – which mirrors what I received from my line managers at Hopscotch.
Bliss Greenwood
Vacancies
Explore live roles across our nurseries and wider support teams.
You’ll also see clear progression routes – from apprentice to leadership – so you can picture where this could take you, not just what you’ll do next.
We aim to keep the process clear, respectful, and supportive – so you always know what’s happening next.
Apply online
Submit your application through our careers site.
Application review
Applications are reviewed in line with safer recruitment practice.
Interview and assessment
If shortlisted, you’ll be invited to an interview which includes a play interview – a chance to see you engaging with children, and for you to experience the nursery in real life.
Offer and checks
Offers are subject to pre-employment checks (including enhanced DBS, references, and right-to-work verification).
Induction and onboarding
We’ll support you through a structured induction so you feel confident and settled in your role.
FAQ’s
You’ll receive a comprehensive handbook when you join, covering pay, shifts, holidays, and company policies. In the meantime, here are a few common questions.
What is the probation period?
Your probation period is set out in your contract. You’ll have regular check-ins to review your induction plan and how you’re settling into the role.
When do you get paid?
Pay is monthly. You’ll receive access to our HR system during onboarding so you can view payslips and employment details directly.
Do you offer a pension?
Yes – pension details are shared during onboarding.
What holiday entitlement do you offer?
Holiday entitlement is set out in your contract and shown in our HR system.
What training and development is available?
We invest heavily in learning and development, including on-the-job support, regular reviews, access to CPD, and apprenticeship opportunities where relevant.
What safeguarding checks are required?
All roles follow safer recruitment practice, including DBS checks and other checks required for early years settings.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
We want Hopscotch to be a place where people feel they belong.
Do you offer company sick pay?
Your entitlement to company sick pay and arrangements for absence will be outlined in your contract.
