Childcare Manager in Chichester

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 identify, respond to and report 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 communicate 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:

• We have a fantastic range of staff benefits, highly competitive against what is offered by the private sector and other organisations, including:
• 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.

We actively encourage applications from those seeking part-time roles, job shares, or other flexible working arrangements. Whether you're balancing caring responsibilities, pursuing personal goals, or simply seeking a healthier rhythm between life and work, we’re here to support you. Our roles are designed with adaptability in mind and at the heart of our people strategy is a commitment to an inclusive environment where different ways of working are not only accommodated but celebrated. If flexibility matters to you, you'll find a welcoming home here at CCG.

Closing date: 1 June 2026

Interview date: 12 June 2026

If you would like to learn more about our Childcare Manager role, then please click ‘apply’ today! Please note that your CV will not be seen by Recruiting Managers so please ensure your application form is fully completed.

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.