At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dedicated team to provide exceptional childcare in a fun and safe environment.
- Company: First Steps Chichester, a welcoming and supportive nursery group.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, discounts, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Located on Chichester College campus, close to city amenities and parks.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while enjoying a vibrant work culture.
- Qualifications: Level 3 qualification in Early Childhood Studies and experience in early years settings.
The predicted salary is between 35441 - 38721 € per year.
First Steps Chichester has an exciting opportunity for you to join us as a Childcare Manager based in Chichester. You will join us on a full-time basis and in return you will receive a competitive salary of £35,441 - £38,721 per annum. 37 hours per week, 52 weeks per year.
The Childcare Manager Role
An exciting opportunity has arisen to lead a dedicated team of staff providing exceptional childcare in a safe, secure, fun and stimulating environment at First Steps Childcare in our Chichester Nursery. As a part of our amazing group of nurseries spread across West Sussex, First Steps Chichester is a truly enjoyable, welcoming and supportive place to work. The nursery benefits from being on Chichester College campus which is a fabulous campus, in walking distance of many of the Chichester City amenities such as Chichester Cathedral, Bishop Palace gardens, The Novium Museum, the canal, the library and some lovely play parks.
Key Responsibilities of our Childcare Manager:
- Leading and managing the nursery as a welcoming, inclusive and high-quality early years provision, providing a safe, nurturing and engaging environment in which children can thrive, learn and develop.
- Overseeing the day-to-day operations of the setting, ensuring full compliance with Ofsted and statutory requirements, while delivering outstanding early years care and education aligned with the vision, mission and values of First Steps Childcare Group.
- Leading the planning, delivery and evaluation of a high-quality curriculum in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), Characteristics of Effective Learning, and FSCG's mission, vision and values.
- Ensuring the provision of a safe, nurturing and stimulating learning environment that promotes positive outcomes for all children.
- Acting as the Setting Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and actively identifying, responding to and reporting safeguarding concerns in line with statutory guidance and FSCG policies, supporting staff through safeguarding processes as required.
- Ensuring full compliance with Health & Safety policies, risk assessments and procedures, and communicating identified risks promptly to Senior Leadership.
- Managing the day-to-day operations of the nursery to ensure efficient running, effective use of resources and positive experiences for children and families.
Our ideal Childcare Manager should have the following skills and experience:
- Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of EYFS statutory framework, Health and Safety legislation, and safeguarding requirements.
- Full and relevant Level 3 qualification in Early Childhood Studies (or equivalent).
- Minimum of 2 years' experience of working in an Early Years setting or 2 years other suitable experience.
- Experience of managing staff teams, including recruitment, induction, coaching and performance management.
- The ability to communicate to a diverse range of people at all levels, verbally and in writing.
Our Staff Benefits:
- Competitive annual leave scheme plus bank holidays and closure days over the Christmas period which are not deducted from annual leave entitlement.
- Significant discount at First Steps Childcare nurseries.
- Other discount schemes including discounts on shopping, restaurants, travel and onsite facilities.
- Family friendly policies including enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption leave (dependant on continuous service).
- Continuous professional development opportunities.
- And much more - check out the Staff Benefits booklet attached to this advert for more information about our fantastic range of benefits available to staff.
Closing date: 1 June 2026. The Chichester College Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All posts are subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check, which may include a check of the barred lists and any relevant overseas checks. We vigorously pursue all references and safeguarding checks to ensure applicants are suitable to work with young people. As users of the disability confident scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the role. We are an equal opportunities employer.
Childcare Manager in Bosham employer: First Steps Childcare
First Steps Chichester is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment for those passionate about early years education. Located on the vibrant Chichester College campus, employees enjoy access to local amenities and a strong commitment to professional development, alongside competitive benefits such as generous annual leave, family-friendly policies, and discounts across our nurseries. Join us in making a meaningful impact in children's lives while advancing your career in a nurturing setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Childcare Manager in Bosham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the childcare sector, attend local events, and join relevant online groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching First Steps Chichester and understanding their values and mission. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around creating a nurturing environment for children.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss your experience managing teams and how you've fostered a positive workplace culture. Highlight specific examples where you've made a difference in your previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our fantastic team at First Steps Chichester.
We think you need these skills to ace Childcare Manager in Bosham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Childcare:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for childcare shine through! Share specific examples of how you've created a nurturing environment in previous roles. We want to see that you genuinely care about the well-being and development of children.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills that match the job description. We love seeing how your background aligns with our values and the responsibilities of the Childcare Manager role at First Steps Chichester.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate when candidates communicate effectively, as this reflects the communication skills needed for the role!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the position. Plus, it makes the whole process smoother for everyone involved.
How to prepare for a job interview at First Steps Childcare
✨Know Your EYFS Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. Be ready to discuss how you would implement it in your nursery, and share examples from your past experience where you've successfully delivered a high-quality curriculum.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Childcare Manager, you'll be leading a team. Prepare to talk about your management style and provide specific examples of how you've coached or developed staff in previous roles. Highlight any successful recruitment or performance management experiences.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Safeguarding
Safeguarding is crucial in childcare. Be prepared to discuss your understanding of safeguarding policies and procedures. Share any relevant experiences where you've identified and responded to safeguarding concerns effectively.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Remember, interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the nursery's culture, values, and expectations. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
