
Looking to Hire
We champion the early years and the value this sector has on creating opportunities for children to thrive, by connecting the best of the early years’ community, across East Anglia and Oxfordshire, to create a legacy of shared success.
As working mums, qualified practitioners, and former nursery managers, we understand and empathise with the challenges you face in securing employees to support the children in your care flourish.
Like us, our early years staff are passionate about childcare and doing all they can to inspire children and make a positive impact at their foundation.

Why SKAT?
In everything we do, we demonstrate integrity, loyalty, and respect, consistently because we’re passionate about the people and the industry we serve.
We connect you with dedicated early years staff at all levels from assistants and practitioners to nursery deputies and managers.
- 24/7
- We take it personally
- Safety first
- Consistent customer care
- Preparation beyond the classroom
We deliver round the clock quick and efficient response, flexibility, and outstanding customer service, to reduce hiring frustrations and keep business interruption to a minimum, leaving you to focus on the amazing work you do under challenging circumstances because we understand that last minute requirements are frequent.
We see ourselves as an extension of your organisation and treat your hiring process with the respect and dedication it deserves. We take the time to get to know you and your approach to provide the best professionals to fulfil your needs, giving you the peace of mind that we’ve got you covered.
The safeguarding and security of your children is our number one priority. Our early years staff are personally interviewed, identities are vetted, work experience is referenced, and qualifications and DBS status are thoroughly checked and confirmed before they are even recommended for your nursery. All our international candidates have to provide a Police Clearance Certificate from their country of residence prior to UK and all our staff undergo Safeguarding Training.
Being consistent in what you do provides security and stability to the industry we serve. We take that to heart and deliver consistently outstanding customer care throughout our engagement and beyond. We manage expectations up front and offer personal and flexible solutions with compassion and empathy. It’s this approach that lays the foundation for the positive, lasting relationships that we cherish.
As qualified practitioners, we take staff preparation to a new level. We support our staff by giving them the ideas and skills to suit your children and their environment, so they are ready from day one to deliver the amazing care to maintain and grow your reputation. Throughout their placement with you, we continue to offer tangible ways to overcome any challenges they face. We support them support you.
How we work
Our approach starts with honesty and respect for everyone with whom we engage. Our experience in the early years, as locals and as working mums makes us relatable to our clients and candidates and every engagement is given the respect it deserves. We’ve walked in your shoes and want to the best for you, whatever your circumstances.
We pride ourselves on our consistent and committed customer service and love what we do. That’s evident in our personal approach as we endeavour to support your needs and overcome barriers to success.
We manage expectations upfront and provide clarity because we understand that uncertainly and hesitation leads to frustrations in an already challenging environment.
Upload a job spec
Are you’re an early years’ employer and considering hiring? Fill in our short form to get the ball rolling, and one of our trusted consultants will be in touch to discuss your hiring needs.
SKAT is always very accommodating. The staff are friendly and polite, and always let us know whos is coming in advance. Desi and her team have a high calibre of employees who always do a fantastic job.
Paul Baradeau-Grout – Senior Nursery Co-ordinator, Sunflower Nursery
I have been working with SKAT for several months. The way they treat their staff should be an inspiration for all other employers. I don’t think I could find a better company to work for in Cambridge.
Kyriakos – Nursery Assistant
SKAT are kind, friendly, and always go the extra mile. The staff are always professional and well informed, even with last minute changes, showing just how effective their communication is. I’d truly recommend them to any nursery.
Dalton Smither – University day nursery and Preschool
SKAT is characterized by good communication, Desi and Sohini always offer help, and give us shifts to fit our availability. Very happy to be part of this team and highly recommend SKAT!
Mama Hamidouch – Early Years Practitioner
With SKAT I worked in a variety of nurseries around Cambridge and experienced different workplace dynamics. The agency allowed me to work flexible hours, and communication with them was always straight-forward and clear.
Patricia – Early Years Practitioner
Very happy with the service provided by SKAT. Staff provided to support my team are consistent, punctual, polite and very flexible. Staff are predominately qualified to a degree level in Education. SKAT make every effort to help even at short notice.
Anita James – Manager, Crocus Early Years
Get in touch
If you are considering advancing your early years career or kick-starting your hiring process, get in touch today to speak to one of our trusted advisers.