Starting the year strong: How we welcome new N team members

Starting a new job is exciting yet for some, it can feel a bit daunting, too. At N, we believe that a warm welcome from day one (and even before) shapes confidence, engagement, and long-term success. That’s why we’ve built a thoughtful, supportive onboarding and induction experience designed to help every new team member feel safe, valued, and truly part of the N family.

From the moment an offer is accepted to the first months in a role, here’s how we make sure every new starter begins their journey with clarity, care, and confidence.

Getting started: feeling at home from day one

The first few weeks at N are all about getting to know who we are and what makes us N. New team members are introduced to our mission, values, and ways of working through a comprehensive onboarding programme that blends hands-on training, practical coaching in the rooms, and clear guidance around policies and expectations.

While the early days may feel structured, there’s always plenty of opportunity to ask questions, get involved, and learn by doing. For managers joining N, we also provide dedicated mentoring during induction, ensuring they have a trusted first point of contact for support, guidance, and reflection.

A supportive onboarding process

From the moment an offer is accepted, a new team member’s journey with N begins. Long before their first day, our teams work together to make sure everything is in place so new starters feel supported, informed and genuinely welcomed.

With regular check-ins and clear communication, we aim to create a smooth, reassuring experience that helps every new team member start their role feeling confident and excited to join N.

“The process before joining N was extremely smooth. I always knew where I stood during the interview process, and throughout my onboarding the team was always on hand to answer any questions I had. They made my first few weeks feel incredibly welcoming and warm. The constant check-ins to see how I was getting on reassured me that I had made the right choice.”

- Monica, Academy Trainer

When people feel welcomed, supported and truly part of a team, it makes a lasting difference. A team member who feels they belong from the outset is more likely to feel settled, confident and happy in their role and that sense of belonging helps build strong, long-term relationships at N.

The role managers play in welcoming new starters

Great onboarding is a team effort, and our managers play a vital role in setting new colleagues up for success.

Our managers love staying closely connected with new starters even before their first day. By answering questions, offering reassurance, and sharing what’s happening in the nursery, they help new team members feel engaged and supported from the very beginning. Whether it’s a welcome phone call, a friendly check-in, or an invitation for a coffee before their start date, these small, thoughtful moments help build trust and make a big difference.

Once they’ve started, managers continue to check in regularly, ensuring new team members feel supported, included, and confident as they settle into their role.

Creating a great first-day experience

On their first day, every new team member receives a welcome pack - a small but meaningful way to say “we’re glad you’re here”.

Managers are encouraged to get creative with how the welcome pack is presented, whether it’s set out in the team room, personalised with a name tag, or even signed by colleagues and children.

It’s all about making new starters feel seen, valued, and excited to be part of N. When people feel welcomed, supported and truly part of a team, it makes a lasting difference. A team member who feels they belong from the outset is more likely to feel settled, confident and happy in their role and that sense of belonging helps build strong, long-term relationships at N.

“For me, welcoming someone well is about making them feel noticed and cared for. Small touches on a first day can turn nerves into smiles and help new team members feel excited and proud to be joining N.”

- Madeleine, Development Nursery Manager

Learning, growth, and induction at N

Our structured induction programme is followed up with continued development and support across the full probation period. It’s here to build the knowledge, skills, and confidence for a great career at N.

New team members are introduced to:

• Our story, values, purpose, and what sets us apart
• Safety training to ensure it remains our north star in everything we do
• Our pedagogy and curriculum, giving strong foundations for practice
• Ongoing mentoring and guidance from experienced colleagues

By the end of induction, every team member has the tools and confidence they need to grow, thrive, and make a meaningful impact.

Learning and development through N Academy

Learning at N doesn’t stop after induction. Through N Academy, our dedicated learning and development platform, team members have ongoing access to training that supports their growth at every stage of their career. From essential foundations and role-specific learning to leadership development and progression pathways, N Academy is designed to build confidence, capability, and long-term success. Whether someone is just starting out or stepping into a leadership role, N Academy ensures everyone at N has the tools, support, and encouragement to keep learning, developing, and reaching their potential.

One team, one welcome

Starting a new role can be overwhelming, but at N, no one does it alone. We believe that warmth, kindness, and teamwork are just as important as training and structure.

A friendly face, a warm welcome, and a supportive team can make all the difference. That’s why we focus on creating an onboarding experience that feels human, thoughtful, and genuinely inclusive, because when our people feel supported, they can do their very best work.

Thinking about joining N? We’d love to welcome you. Explore careers at N.