Nursery Manager

A fast-growing and reputable early-years childcare and education provider is seeking a Nursery Manager to run a nursery safely and to a high standard, ensuring it is Ofsted-ready at all times. The Nursery Manager will have previous experience working in an early-years setting, have a strong understanding and current knowledge of the EYFS framework, and be fully conversant with all the necessary safeguarding regulations, Ofsted inspection frameworks and statutory early-years requirements. In addition, the Nursery Manager will hold, or be working towards, a DSL qualification, have excellent communication and conflict-resolution skills, and have good staff management skills and day-to-day operational experience, such as handling rotas, business income and expenditure, and logistics.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure the site runs safely, smoothly, consistently, and at a high standard, and is Ofsted-ready at all times.
• Make sure all statutory requirements, safeguarding obligations, and EYFS frameworks are fully met and evidenced.
• Escalate any regulatory concerns to the Operations Manager immediately.
• Manage staff rota, performance, and ensure they feel supported and valued.
• Respond professionally and promptly to parents and handle any day-to-day concerns sensitively.
• Make sure all staff are trained and aware of their obligations to safeguarding on site, and record and elevate any concerns in line with group policy and statutory requirements.
• Keep the site clean and maintained at all times, update risk assessments and how incidents are recorded, and inspect the site on a regular schedule.
• Complete accurately and on time the LA headcount and funding submissions.
• Work with colleagues to support the enrolment process such as welcoming prospective families, conducting tours, and ensuring places are confirmed.
• Be responsible for the site’s day-to-day operational budget and elevate any future concerns or significant spend to the Ops and Finance Managers promptly.
• Implement the brand and environment standards for the site, update Meet the Staff board, and ensure visitor impressions are consistently positive.

Knowledge, skills and qualifications required

• Previous experience working in an early-years setting.
• Have a strong understanding and current knowledge of the EYFS framework.
• Fully conversant with Ofsted inspection frameworks, safeguarding regulation and statutory early years requirements.
• Hold or working towards a DSL qualification.
• Great customer service and conflict resolution skills.
• Excellent communication, teamwork, leadership, and management skills.
• A good understanding of health and safety in an early-years setting.
• Previous experience in handling related operational duties such as rotas, admissions and logistics.
• Able to handle day-to-day business income and expenditure.
• Is professional and discreet.

Salary circa £42,000 DOE. Benefits yearly bonus, 31 days annual leave incl. bank holidays + add. 2 days & birthday leave, 1 free childcare place, strong support and development programme.