Nursery Manager

We are looking for a passionate and experienced Nursery  Manager to oversee the day-to-day management of our brand-new nursery setting. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the culture, systems and standards of the nursery from the very beginning while creating an environment where children, families and staff feel supported and valued. 

The Nursery Manager will play a key role in establishing high standards of care, education, safeguarding and operational practice, while leading the team through the opening phase and supporting the nursery’s ongoing growth and development. 

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & People Management

• Recruit, induct and develop a brand-new staff team.

• Conduct regular supervisions, appraisals and performance management.

• Lead staff meetings, training sessions and reflective practice discussions.

• Promote a positive and professional culture.

• Support staff wellbeing, development and confidence.

• Motivate the team to deliver high-quality childcare and uphold nursery values.

Curriculum, Learning & Development

• Take overall responsibility for the delivery of the EYFS.

• Ensure planning, observations and assessments are meaningful and effective.

• Monitor children's progress and support high-quality teaching and learning.

• Ensure appropriate support is in pl;ace for children with SEND, working alongside external professionals where required.

• Oversee the key person approach and promote child-centred practice throughout the nursery. 

Safeguarding & Compliance

• Act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).

• Embed a vigilant and proactive safeguarding culture where children’s welfare remains central to all practice and decision-making.

• Oversee risk assessments, health and safety procedures and regulatory compliance.

• Ensure safeguarding, health and safety and operational records are accurately maintained.

• Ensure risk assessments (daily, weekly, monthly) are completed and recorded safely.

• Ensure the nursery remains Ofsted-ready at all times.

Operations & Administration

• Manage admissions, occupancy, funding and waiting lists.

• Maintain accurate child records, accident logs and safeguarding documentation.

• Ensure compliance with GDPR and confidentiality standards.

• Support budget management, staffing ratios and resource allocation.

• Liaise with Ofsted, the local authority, external agencies  and suppliers.

Parent & Community Engagement

• Build strong and professional relationships with families.

• Lead parent tours, settling-in sessions and open days.

• Respond to feedback, queries and concerns professionally and sensitively.

• Represent the nursery within the local community and develop positive partnerships. .

What We’re Looking For

• A minimum Level 3 Early Years qualification (Level 5/6 desirable)

• Experience as a Nursery Manager or an experience Deputy Manager ready to progress

• Excellent knowledge of the EYFS and Ofsted requirements

• Strong knowledge of the EYFS and Ofsted requirements .

• A professional, approachable and child-centred approach

• Confidence managing operations, compliance and team development.

• A genuine passion for high-quality early years education and care.