Business Details
21 Years
experience
Trusted Childcare Services for Early Years Development
Hopscotch Day Nurseries has been dedicated to providing exceptional childcare for over 18 years, with each of our nurseries offering uniquely designed environments tailored to meet the developmental needs of children from infancy through to school readiness. Founded in 2005 by Freya Derrick MBE, our nurseries combine personal experience as parents with professional expertise to create a nurturing space where children thrive. Our commitment to quality is evident in our home-cooked meals, carefully curated resources, and teams of dedicated professionals who prioritise both care and education.As a mother of three, Freya understands the challenges of selecting childcare, and we ensure every family feels supported through their early years journey. Our open-door policy and focus on individualised attention reflect our belief that only the best is good enough for your child. With locations across Hampshire, including Botley, Eastleigh, Fareham, and Gosport, we provide a home-from-home environment where children explore, discover, and learn with confidence.
Services
Babies Care
Toddler Development
Preschool Education
Special Educational Needs Support
Key Worker System
Baby Weaning Programs
Outdoor Learning Activities
Details
- Year established: 2005
Highlights and features
- We have over 18 years of experience in early years childcare.
- Our nurseries offer home-cooked meals and tailored learning environments.
- All nursery managers are parents with firsthand childcare experience.
- We provide school readiness programs aligned with educational standards.
- Our open-door policy ensures continuous parental support and communication.
What people say
Staff are professional and dedicated
Children love attending daily
Supportive learning environment
Excellent preparation for school
Friendly and caring teams
Services
Babies Care
Our Babies rooms provide a safe, stimulating environment for infants up to 18 months. Specially trained caregivers focus on sensory development, bonding, and establishing routines. Each space features age-appropriate resources to support early milestones in a warm, homely setting.
Preschool Education
Tailored programs prepare children for school through structured play and foundational skills. Qualified educators deliver curriculum-aligned activities focusing on literacy, numeracy, and social development. Outdoor learning spaces enhance physical coordination and imaginative play experiences.
Special Educational Needs Support
We offer individualised support for children with special educational needs. Our trained staff work closely with parents and specialists to create inclusive learning plans. Adaptable environments and small group sessions ensure every child progresses at their own pace.
Key Worker System
Each child is assigned a dedicated key worker who builds strong relationships with both child and family. This system ensures consistent care, detailed progress tracking, and regular communication about developmental milestones and daily experiences.
Outdoor Learning Activities
Our nurseries feature secure outdoor spaces designed to promote physical development and environmental exploration. Children engage in gardening, weather observation, and active play while developing risk assessment skills in supervised natural settings.
People
Freya Derrick
Founder and Managing Director
With over 18 years in childcare, Freya established Hopscotch after identifying gaps in nursery provision. As a mother of three, she combines personal experience with professional expertise to lead our nurseries' commitment to quality care and early education.
Questions
What age groups do you cater for?
We provide care for children from 6 weeks old through to school age, with dedicated rooms for Babies, Waddlers, Toddlers, and Preschoolers.
How do you support school readiness?
Our curriculum focuses on literacy, numeracy, and social skills through play-based learning, with regular transition activities to prepare children for their next educational stage.
Are meals provided?
Yes, we serve home-cooked meals daily, with menus designed to meet nutritional guidelines and accommodate dietary requirements.
How do you involve parents?
We maintain regular communication through daily updates, parent-teacher meetings, and an open-door policy, encouraging active family participation in their child's development.
What safety measures are in place?
All staff hold paediatric first aid qualifications, with secure entry systems and strict safeguarding procedures across all our nursery locations.
