Nursery Manager (Maternity Cover) in Luton

Location: Quinton House School

Contract: Full Time, Fixed Term

Hours: 39 hours per week

Salary: Up to £26,600 per Annum (Includes Management Allowance)

Start Date: October 2026

About Quinton House School

At Quinton House, we are more than just a school; we are a nurturing community dedicated to shaping curious, inspired, and resilient young minds. For over 80 years, we have focused on character development, ensuring every child is prepared for the world that awaits them. Our ethos revolves around understanding our students' interests and needs, providing the support and encouragement they require to truly shine.

About the Role

This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate individual to inspire our youngest learners! As the Nursery Manager, you will lead the overall management and daily operations of our nursery, creating a safe, stimulating, and nurturing environment for children aged 2-4 years. You will ensure that our nursery aligns with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework while embodying the school’s ethos and values.

Your Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the nursery team, fostering a positive and professional working environment.
• Oversee daily operations, including staffing, rotas, and ratios.
• Ensure compliance with EYFS, safeguarding requirements, and relevant regulatory standards.
• Deliver a high-quality, play-based curriculum aligned with EYFS principles.
• Monitor children’s development through planning, assessment, and progress tracking.
• Promote inclusive practices and support children with additional needs.
• Maintain high standards of health, safety, hygiene, and safeguarding.
• Manage nursery resources, equipment, and budget effectively.
• Build strong relationships with parents and provide regular updates on children’s progress.
• Lead parent meetings, reports, and nursery events.
• Support transitions into Reception and collaborate with wider school staff.
• Contribute to inspections, school initiatives, and the wider life of the school.

What You’ll Bring

Qualifications:

• Level 3 Early Years qualification (minimum).
• Level 5 or 6 qualification (desirable).
• Paediatric First Aid (or willingness to obtain).
• Safeguarding training (DSL training desirable).

Skills:

• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent organisational and time management abilities.
• Clear and confident communication skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships with parents, staff, and external partners.
• Strong understanding of safeguarding and child welfare practices.
• Ability to inspire, motivate, and support both staff and children.

Experience:

• Significant experience working within an early years setting.
• Proven leadership or supervisory experience.
• Strong knowledge of the EYFS framework and Ofsted expectations.
• Experience in a school-based or independent nursery setting (desirable).

Why Join Quinton House School?

• A welcoming, supportive culture where both staff and students are valued as individuals.
• Small class sizes that foster meaningful connections and impactful teaching.
• Beautiful surroundings paired with modern resources.
• Strong academic outcomes and ambitious further-education pathways.
• A broad co-curricular programme designed to inspire and extend learning.
• A collaborative staff body that values creativity, innovation, and shared success.

How to Apply

If you’re ready to make a difference in the lives of our children, we encourage you to submit your application form and supporting statement via our recruitment portal. Early applications are encouraged, as we may invite strong candidates to interview before the closing date.

Quinton House School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All appointments will be subject to an enhanced DBS check, Social Media Check, and safeguarding procedures.