At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire nursery teams to deliver exceptional care and education.
- Company: Join Childbase Partnership, a supportive and inclusive employer.
- Benefits: Enjoy up to 50 days off, a company car, and childcare discounts.
- Other info: Flexible field-based role with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while shaping nursery success.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Early Years qualification and strong leadership experience required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
This job is with Childbase Partnership, an inclusive employer and a member of myGwork – the largest global platform for the LGBTQ+ business community.
Be part of something truly special. At Childbase Partnership, we believe that childhood is something to be cherished — a time for curiosity, creativity and growing confidence. Behind every wonderful nursery experience is a strong, supportive leader… and that’s where you come in.
We are looking for a passionate and inspiring Area Manager to support our nurseries across Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire, helping our teams to deliver exceptional care, education, and experiences for every child, every day.
Why choose Childbase Partnership? Because we care about you, just as much as we care about the children in our nurseries. When you join us, you’ll benefit from:
- Up to 50 paid days off each year – because work-life balance truly matters
- Company car for your field-based role
- Competitive salary + discretionary bonus
- 75% childcare discount for your children (40% for grandchildren)
- Private medical care, mental health support & Employee Assistance Programme
- A genuine sense of belonging in an employee-owned partnership
What you’ll be doing: As an Area Manager, you’ll play a vital role in shaping the success of our nurseries and the experiences of our children and teams. You will:
- Support and inspire nursery managers to lead confident, happy, high-performing teams
- Champion outstanding care and education, underpinned by the EYFS
- Help your nurseries thrive by delivering against key goals such as occupancy, team wellbeing and retention
- Work closely with your Regional Director and colleagues to overcome challenges and drive improvement
- Build strong, positive relationships with teams, families, and external partners
- Be a visible, approachable leader who makes a real difference across your region
About you: You are someone who leads with warmth, motivates with purpose, and genuinely cares. You will:
- Hold a Level 3 (or above) Early Years qualification
- Have strong leadership experience in a nursery or multi-site setting
- Bring a solid understanding of the EYFS and statutory frameworks
- Be confident in coaching, supporting and developing others
- Enjoy being out in the field, building relationships and making an impact
- Have a natural ability to balance people, quality and performance
Location & role details: This is a field-based role across Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire, with regular visits to our nurseries and Head Office in Newport Pagnell. Full-time (37.5 hours per week), with flexibility required to meet the needs of the business.
A role that truly matters: At Childbase Partnership, you’re not just managing nurseries, you’re shaping experiences, supporting teams, and helping children grow into confident individuals. If you’re looking for a leadership role where you can feel proud of the difference you make every day, we would love to welcome you.
We are an inclusive employer and we welcome applicants of all ages and backgrounds. We’re committed to FREDIE (fairness, respect, equality, diversity, inclusion, and engagement) and will consider any reasonable adjustments required. If you meet the essential criteria for this role, your application will be automatically shortlisted for review by our Recruitment Team who will resolve if an interview is the next step. Applicants must currently reside within a commutable distance of the nursery and hold suitable Right to Work in the UK; VISA sponsorship is not available. Safer recruitment checks apply, which include an Enhanced DBS check.
Area Manger - Early Years employer: Childbase Partnership
At Childbase Partnership, we prioritise the well-being of our employees just as much as we do for the children in our care. With up to 50 days of annual leave, a competitive salary with bonuses, and a supportive work culture that champions inclusivity and personal growth, you will find a fulfilling environment where your leadership can truly make a difference across Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire. Join us to be part of an employee-owned partnership that values your contributions and fosters a genuine sense of belonging.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Area Manger - Early Years
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company culture! Before your interview, spend some time researching Childbase Partnership. Check out their website and social media to understand their values and what they stand for. This will help you connect with them during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your leadership stories! Think of specific examples from your past experiences where you've inspired teams or improved nursery operations. Be ready to share these stories in a way that highlights your passion for early years education.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your enthusiasm! During the interview, let your passion for early years education shine through. Talk about why you care about children's development and how you can make a difference in their lives as an Area Manager.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your appreciation for the opportunity and reinforces your interest in the role. Plus, it keeps you fresh in their minds!
We think you need these skills to ace Area Manger - Early Years
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for early years education shine through. We want to see how much you care about shaping children's experiences and supporting teams.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Area Manager role. Highlight your leadership experience and understanding of the EYFS. We love seeing how your background aligns with what we do!
Be Authentic:Don’t be afraid to show your personality in your application. We value authenticity and want to know the real you. Share your unique approach to leadership and how you inspire others.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to review your application and get you on the path to joining our amazing team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Childbase Partnership
✨Know Your EYFS Inside Out
As an Area Manager, you'll need a solid understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). Brush up on the key principles and statutory frameworks before your interview. Be ready to discuss how you can champion outstanding care and education in your nurseries.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Childbase Partnership is looking for someone who leads with warmth and motivates teams. Prepare examples of how you've inspired and supported nursery managers in the past. Think about specific challenges you've overcome and how you fostered high-performing teams.
✨Build Relationships
This role is all about building strong, positive relationships. Be prepared to talk about how you've engaged with families, teams, and external partners. Share stories that highlight your ability to connect with others and make a real difference in their experiences.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Impact
Since this is a field-based role, show that you're adaptable and ready to meet the needs of the business. Discuss how you've balanced people, quality, and performance in previous roles, and be ready to explain how you plan to make an impact across Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire.
