Nursery Manager

Join a nursery that puts children, community, and ethical practice at the heart of everything we do.

We’re excited to be looking for a new Nursery Manager to lead our lovely 24‑place setting in Deanshanger—Acorn’s newest nursery and a much‑loved space that has supported local families for many years. Tucked beside the community centre in the former Deanshanger Pre‑School building, our nursery specialises in care and education for under‑threes. With a beautiful garden, a strong outdoor ethos, and a nurturing, homely feel, it’s a place where babies and toddlers can explore, discover and flourish—whatever the weather.

And as a little thank‑you… £1,000 welcome bonus after successful completion of your 3‑month probation.

Who We’re Looking For

We’re not just recruiting a manager—we’re looking for a leader who is:

• ethical, dedicated and genuinely child‑centred
• passionate about outstanding care and education for babies and toddlers
• a champion of outdoor learning and hands‑on experiences
• committed to strong relationships with parents and the community
• excited about supporting and developing a talented staff team
• driven by values, not profit

At Acorn, we’re a not‑for‑profit social enterprise. That means our decisions start and end with what children need—not shareholders. We invest heavily in our people, our pedagogy and nature‑based practice, and we’re proud to be recognised as a Top 20 DayNurseries Group.

If you want to lead a small, specialist nursery where love, laughter and learning come first—this is the role for you.

What You’ll Be Doing

As Nursery Manager, you’ll:

• Lead high‑quality practice across the EYFS with a focus on under‑threes
• Safeguard and promote the wellbeing of every child and every team member
• Build strong, trusting relationships with parents and carers
• Oversee the daily running of the nursery
• Work confidently with the Local Authority, Ofsted and other partners
• Drive occupancy and community engagement
• Manage budgets and ensure resources are used effectively
• Support, develop and mentor your team—creating a culture of learning and excellence

What You’ll Bring

We’d love you to have:

• A minimum Level 3 Early Years qualification (Level 6 preferred)
• At least 3 years in a senior/management role
• Experience working specifically with babies and toddlers
• A proven commitment to exceptional early years practice
• Strong leadership and communication skills
• An ethical, positive and wholehearted approach to working with children

Why Choose Acorn?

Working for Acorn means joining an organisation built on care, integrity and professional growth. We offer:

• A competitive salary
• Excellent training and progression opportunities
• Enhanced pension contributions
• 65% childcare discount
• A values‑driven, not‑for‑profit culture
• A supportive team with 35+ years of childcare expertise

The Practical Bits

• Full‑time, 40 hours per week
• A mix of early (from 7:15am) and late shifts (until 6:15pm)
• Right‑to‑work and DBS checks required

Acorn is committed to safeguarding children and promoting the welfare of children, we expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. CCTV is in place throughout the nursery to help maintain a safe environment

If you’re ready to make a real difference, lead a wonderful team, and help shape the futures of our youngest learners, we’d love to hear from you.

Why Choose Acorn?

Working for Acorn means joining an organisation built on care, integrity and professional growth. We offer:

• A competitive salary
• Excellent training and progression opportunities
• Enhanced pension contributions
• 65% childcare discount
• A values‑driven, not‑for‑profit culture
• A supportive team with 35+ years of childcare expertise