Careers at Into-Play

Join a friendly, family-run team where people love what they do and tend to stay for years.

Three smiling Into-Play team members in uniform chatting together

Working at Into-Play

We are a family-run nursery group with two settings in Gloucester, Barnwood and Gloucester Quays. Into-Play was built on word of mouth over more than two decades, and the same care we give the children runs through how we look after our team. Many of our staff have been with us for years, and that continuity is something families feel every day.

Whether you are a qualified early years practitioner, a nursery assistant, or just starting out through an apprenticeship or placement, we would love to hear from you. We take training seriously, we help people grow, and we work hard to make Into-Play somewhere you look forward to coming each day.

A smiling Into-Play team member in uniform

Training and placements

We are always glad to support people who are training towards a career in early years. We regularly offer placements to college and university students so they can gain real experience alongside our team.

Our own staff keep developing too. We support ongoing training, from paediatric first aid and safeguarding through to further early years qualifications, so the people caring for your child are always learning.

Early careers and apprenticeships

Starting out in early years? We take on apprentices most years and are always happy to hear from people at the beginning of their career. You will learn on the job, supported by an experienced team who remember starting out themselves.

  • Apprenticeship routes

    Earn while you learn towards a recognised early years qualification, with time set aside for study alongside your work in the rooms.

  • A supportive first job

    Nursery assistant roles are a great way in. You will always have a qualified key person and manager close by as you find your feet.

  • Room to grow

    Many of our team started in junior roles and moved up. We will help you work towards your Level 3 and beyond when you are ready.

Live vacancies

These are the roles we are recruiting for right now. Select a role to see the full details and apply. We recruit for these positions regularly, so do get in touch even if the one you want is not listed today.

  • Level 3 Early Years Practitioner

    Barnwood or Gloucester Quays · Full or part time · Permanent

    Work as a key person to a small group of children, planning for their learning and building close relationships with their families. A Level 3 early years qualification is required.

    View role : Level 3 Early Years Practitioner
  • Nursery Assistant

    Barnwood or Gloucester Quays · Full or part time · Permanent

    Support the room team through the day, from play and mealtimes to nappies and naps. A great first role in early years, with training towards your Level 3.

    View role : Nursery Assistant
  • Early Years Apprentice

    Gloucester · Apprenticeship · Fixed term

    Earn while you train towards a recognised early years qualification, learning on the job alongside an experienced and supportive team.

    View role : Early Years Apprentice

Employee benefits

We look after the people who look after the children. Here is some of what you can expect as part of the Into-Play team.

  • Workplace pension

    A workplace pension with employer contributions, so you can plan ahead with confidence.

  • Paid holiday

    Generous paid holiday that increases with your length of service.

  • Ongoing training and CPD

    Paid training from paediatric first aid and safeguarding to further early years qualifications.

  • Career progression

    A clear route from nursery assistant to room leader and beyond, with support at every step.

  • Childcare discount

    A discount on nursery fees for your own children at Barnwood or The Quays.

  • Uniform provided

    Your Into-Play uniform is provided, so you are ready from day one.

Useful downloads

Our recruitment policies and applicant information, ready to read before you apply.

  • Safer recruitment policy

    PDF to follow

  • Recruitment and selection policy

    PDF to follow

  • Equal opportunities policy

    PDF to follow

  • Privacy notice for applicants

    PDF to follow

What our team say

A few words from the people who make Into-Play what it is.

Photo to come

“I started at Into-Play as an apprentice and never wanted to leave. The team feels like family, and there is always someone helping you learn and take your next step.”

Team member (name to come) Early Years Practitioner, Into-Play

Come and have a look around

Ask us anything, or arrange a show round at Barnwood or The Quays. We will make you and your child very welcome.