Salary starting From : £59,000
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
About the Role
We are looking for an experienced, passionate, and inspiring Nursery Manager to lead a high-quality early years setting. This is an exciting opportunity for a strong leader who is committed to delivering exceptional childcare, developing a high-performing team, and creating a safe, nurturing environment where every child can flourish. As Nursery Manager, you will oversee the day-to-day running of the nursery, ensuring the highest standards of care, education, and compliance are consistently maintained. You will play a key role in supporting and developing your team while building positive relationships with children, families, and the wider community.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage the day-to-day operations of the nursery.
- Deliver outstanding early years education and care in line with the EYFS framework.
- Ensure full compliance with safeguarding procedures, Ofsted requirements, and relevant legislation.
- Lead, motivate, coach, and develop a dedicated nursery team.
- Recruit, induct, and retain high-quality staff.
- Build positive relationships with children, parents, carers, and external professionals.
- Monitor nursery occupancy and contribute to the continued growth and success of the setting.
- Manage budgets and resources effectively.
- Ensure health and safety standards are maintained at all times.
- Prepare for Ofsted inspections and drive continuous quality improvement.
- Promote an inclusive, child-centred environment where every child can thrive.
- Act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), where applicable.
About You
To be successful in this role, you will have:
- A Level 3 Early Years qualification or above (Level 5 or higher is desirable).
- Previous experience managing an early years setting.
- Strong knowledge of the EYFS, safeguarding legislation, and Ofsted requirements.
- Proven leadership and people management experience.
- Excellent communication, organisational, and problem-solving skills.
- Experience managing budgets and nursery occupancy.
- A good understanding of health and safety legislation.
- The ability to build strong working relationships with families, colleagues, and external agencies.
Desirable Qualifications & Experience
- Degree in Early Childhood Studies, Education, or a related subject.
- Experience leading a nursery to a Good or Outstanding Ofsted rating.
- Paediatric First Aid qualification.
- Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) training.
What We’re Looking For
- We’re looking for someone who is:
- Passionate about providing outstanding childcare and early education.
- An inspiring and supportive leader who brings out the best in others.
- Professional, approachable, and resilient.
- Highly organised with excellent attention to detail.
- Committed to continuous improvement and professional development.
- Child-centred, with a genuine desire to achieve the very best outcomes for every child.
Benefits
- Salary starting from £59,000 per annum
- Generous annual leave entitlement.
- Ongoing training and professional development.
- Excellent career progression opportunities.
- Company pension scheme.
- Employee wellbeing initiatives.
- Supportive and collaborative working environment.
- Employee recognition and reward programmes.
Please note: This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references, and the right to work in the UK.
