CAREERS

Where Passion Meets Purpose: Careers at School of Play

At School of Play, we provide more than childcare — we
create joyful, safe, and enriching experiences that leave a
lasting impact on children’s lives.

If you’re a passionate individual with an optimistic approach
to life and loves this line of work, join our talent pool and be
part of our journey.

Our Core Values

Safety
First

We never compromise on the wellbeing of our children.

Working Together

We thrive through teamwork, respect, and support.

Delivering with Passion

We show up with energy and heart, every single day.

Thinking Differently

We’re creative, adaptable, and always improving.

Meet our Founder, Ryan Harris

At School of Play, we provide more than childcare — we create joyful, safe, and enriching experiences that leave a lasting impact on children’s lives.

If you’re a passionate, optimistic individual who loves working with children, we invite you to explore a career with us. Join our talent pool and become part of a team that’s shaping the future, one playful moment at a time.

What do our team think? ​

Optimistic Workplace

Positivity is at the heart of everything we do. We believe that a positive mindset inspires great work, uplifts others, and spreads far beyond our workplace. We lead with optimism, knowing it creates a fun, friendly and empowering place to be.

People-First Approach

We’re proud of our positive, people-first culture. We know that the quality of our care starts with the quality of our people. That’s why we invest in our team. When we look after our staff, they’re empowered to deliver the very best for the children in our care. Here, you belong, contribute, and make a difference.

We Hire for Attitude

Qualifications matter, but attitude matters more. We are looking for talented and skilled individuals who align with our values and bring positivity in the workplace. If you are passionate about working with children and see this as more than just a job, we’d love to hear from you.

Team Reviews

The results of our latest NPS Team Happiness Survey reveal that our team genuinely enjoys being part of what we’re building.


Friendly team and they make you feel welcome. Management are approachable and check up daily and how everyone is and how the day before went.

We all work as well as a team to make sure all activities are planned to the highest content and ensure all children leave each day as happy as if they were at home.

If it was someone highly motivated and goal-driven then I would definitely recommend the job as I know they would be welcomed, challenged and rewarded.

Really good company to work for and would recommend to friends (but not always family members as I wouldn’t want to have conflict with home life, if for any reason an issue came up.)

Vacancies

Childcare Assistant Setting Lead (Manchester)

Key Info:

  • Level 3 Practitioner
  • 15 – 25 hours per week
  • £12.50 – £13.50 per hour
  • Free childcare during school holidays

Ideal Qualifications/Experience:

  • Minimum NVQ Level 3 in Childcare
  • 2+ Years Childcare Experience
  • Paediatric First Aid (training opportunities available)

Childcare Practitioner (Manchester)

Key Info:

  • Level 2 & 3 Practitioner / Playworker
  • Part-Time
  • Bank Team / School Holidays aviable
  • £11.50 – £13.50 per hour
  • Free childcare during school holidays

Ideal Qualifications/Experience:

  • Minimum NVQ Level 2 in Childcare (training opportunities available)
  • 2+ Years Childcare Experience
  • Paediatric First Aid (training opportunities available)

Childcare head of Setting (Prestbury, Macclesfield)

Key Info:

  • Level 3 Practitioner (Part or Full Time)
  • 15 – 25 hours per week / Full Time – 35 to 44 hours per week
  • £16.87 per hour / Full time – £24,000 per year
  • Free childcare during school holidays


Ideal Qualifications/Experience:

  • Minimum NVQ Level 3 in Childcare
  • 2+ Years Childcare Experience
  • Paediatric First Aid (training opportunities available)

Join our Talent Pool

Didn’t come across a role for you? Don’t worry, we’re always on the lookout for amazing people! Join our talent pool and you’ll be the first to know when new positions that match your skills and interests become available.