Nursery Manager (Maternity Cover) Level 3 HA8

Job Description:

• Job Title: Nursery Manager (Maternity Cover)

  Location: London (HA8) 

  Job Type: Temporary (Maternity Cover)

  Start Date: November 2026

  Hours: Approximately 37 hours per week (from January 2027)

   About the Role
  
  We are looking for an experienced and passionate  Nursery Manager  to join our welcoming and established nursery in , London (HA8)  on a maternity cover contract from November 2026 to September 2027.

  This role offers a structured handover period during November and December 2026 working 2 days per week, allowing you to become familiar with the nursery, children, families, staff and daily operations before taking full responsibility from January 2027.

  There may also be an opportunity to remain within the nursery in an alternative role following the maternity cover period, subject to the needs of the setting.

   Working Hours:
  
  Full-time, approximately 37 hours per week. A flexible working pattern will apply, with a structured handover period during November and December 2026 before the full maternity cover begins in January 2027.
   Key Responsibilities
  
  As Nursery Manager, you will be responsible for the smooth day-to-day running of the nursery, ensuring children receive outstanding care and education in a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment.

  Your responsibilities will include:
  
  Leading and supporting the nursery team to deliver high-quality childcare and education.

   Ensuring the safety, welfare and wellbeing of all children at all times.

  Maintaining compliance with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and all relevant legislation.

   Promoting outstanding safeguarding practices throughout the nursery.

   Managing staffing, rotas and ratios to ensure effective daily operations.

  Supporting staff through supervision, appraisals, training and professional development.

  Building positive relationships with children, families and external professionals.

   Maintaining high standards of health, safety, hygiene and cleanliness.

  Overseeing children’s learning and development and supporting individual needs.

  Ensuring accurate nursery records and administration are maintained.

  Supporting the ongoing development and quality improvement of the nursery.

  Promoting an inclusive environment where every child can thrive.

   About You
  
  To be successful in this role, you will have:

  • A relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification or above.
  • Previous experience working within an early years or nursery setting.
  • Experience leading, supervising or managing an early years team.
  •  Strong knowledge of the EYFS and current childcare legislation.
  • Excellent safeguarding knowledge and commitment to child protection.
  • Strong leadership, communication and organisational skills.
  • The ability to motivate, support and develop a team.
  • Confidence in managing nursery operations and administration.
  • A professional, reliable and approachable manner.
  • A genuine passion for delivering outstanding childcare and early education.
  • An Enhanced DBS Check (or willingness to obtain one) and satisfactory pre-employment checks.

   What We Offer
  
  A supportive and welcoming nursery environment.

  A comprehensive handover and induction period.

  The opportunity to lead an established nursery team.

  Ongoing professional support throughout the contract.

  Potential opportunities to remain with the nursery following the maternity cover, subject to business needs.

  Apply Today
  
  If you are an experienced Early Years professional looking for an exciting leadership opportunity in London (HA8) we would love to hear from you.

  Apply today to discuss this opportunity further.
  

Job Benefits:

Job Certifications:

• Level 3