At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the daily operations of a vibrant nursery and ensure high-quality care for children.
- Company: Join Newcastle High School for Girls, a top independent school with a supportive community.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, professional development, free lunches, and discounts for your family.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team focused on creating an exceptional early years experience.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your career in a nurturing environment.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Early Years qualification and experience in managing early years settings.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity has arisen to appoint a highly capable and well organised professional to the role of Nursery Manager at Newcastle High School for Girls. A key role within the school, responsible for the operational leadership and day to day delivery of Early Years provision. Working closely with the Early Years Lead and Nursery Teacher, the Nursery Manager will ensure that Nursery, wrap around and holiday provision are consistently well organised, responsive to families and delivered to the highest standard.
The role plays an important part in ensuring that the Early Years setting operates effectively within a busy and evolving environment. It requires a clear and structured approach to organisation, strong attention to detail, and the ability to coordinate people, systems and processes so that provision runs smoothly and consistently.
The successful candidate will take responsibility for the operational aspects of Nursery provision, bringing clarity and consistency to daily activity and ensuring a positive and well managed experience for both children and families. The role also contributes to the effective organisation and development of Early Years provision within the wider life of the school.
About the School
Newcastle High School for Girls is the North East's leading independent girls' day school. Our pupils are ambitious, curious and motivated, and we are proud to provide an exceptional education within a warm, supportive and aspirational community. Our Early Years provision sits firmly within this educational context. It is designed not simply as childcare, but as the starting point of a continuous school journey, supported by teaching led practice and a well established transition into Reception.
Reporting to the Early Years Lead, the Nursery Manager will:
- Lead the day to day operational running of Nursery, wrap around care and holiday provision
- Ensure that staffing, organisation and delivery are aligned and consistently managed
- Support the effective organisation and use of Nursery provision across the week and throughout the year
- Oversee the operational aspects of the parent experience, including booking systems and communication
- Work closely with the Finance team to support the effective operation of systems and processes
- Contribute to the continued development of a well organised, responsive and sustainable Early Years offer
This role is particularly well suited to a candidate who combines strong organisational ability with a practical, solutions focused approach, and who is comfortable working within a structured and professional school environment.
We are looking for a candidate who brings experience of working within an Early Years setting, together with the ability to manage day to day operations effectively and consistently. You will be confident in coordinating staffing and daily activity, working with parents and colleagues, and ensuring that provision is delivered to a high standard. You may already be operating in a management role, or you may be looking to take the next step into a position with greater operational responsibility.
You will have:
- Level 3 (or above) Early Years qualification recognised by the Department for Education (DfE) as "full and relevant" for the purposes of the EYFS staff:child ratios
- Experience of working in Early Years provision
- Strong organisational skills and attention to detail
- Experience of managing or supporting staff
- The ability to communicate clearly and professionally with a range of stakeholders
- A practical, proactive and solution focused approach
This is an excellent opportunity for a candidate seeking to play a key role in the development of Early Years provision within a well established and forward looking school environment.
We Can Offer You
- A competitive salary and benefits package
- Membership of the GDST Flexible Pension Plan
- Access to a wide range of professional development opportunities through the GDST network
- Training grants for further qualifications
- Discounted fees for children at GDST schools
- Free lunches and refreshments during term time
- Free on-site parking
- Access to the school fitness suite
- Access to retail discounts via the Pluxee App
- Access to free financial advice via the HR My Money App
- Interest-free loans for travel season tickets and personal equipment
- Cycle to Work scheme
- A supportive, professional and highly collegiate working environment
Closing date: 27th July 2026
Interview date: You must be available week commencing 17th August 2026
Safeguarding and Equal Opportunities
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all qualified individuals. To be eligible for employment, candidates must provide proof of their right to work in the UK. Newcastle High School for Girls and the GDST are committed to diversity, inclusion and real change: a family where every individual is valued, respected and included.
Safeguarding Statement: The Girls' Day School Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection checks appropriate to the post, including online searches and checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Nursery Manager
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Consider creating a public portfolio showcasing your gardening projects, designs, or any unique plants you've cultivated. A well-documented journey through your horticulture experiences can make you stand out when chasing full-time roles. It’s basically your way of shouting, 'Look at what I can do!' to potential employers.
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The horticulture field can be competitive, especially for full-time roles. Keep an eye on seasonal hiring trends and don’t hesitate to apply as soon as positions open up. Check out our website regularly for openings at GDST; staying ahead of the game can give us the edge we need.
We think you need these skills to ace Nursery Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
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How to prepare for a job interview at GDST
✨Get to Know Your Plants
Brush up on your plant knowledge! Be prepared to discuss specific species, their growth requirements, and potential pests. Remember, the role involves practical horticultural skills – so don’t be shy about sharing your hands-on experience with various plants and gardening techniques.
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If you've worked on garden designs, landscaping projects, or community gardens, bring along a portfolio showcasing your work. Visuals speak a thousand words, and this will help us see your creativity and practical skills in action. Plus, don’t forget to have a few stories about challenges you faced and how you overcame them!
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Prepare for some technical questions related to horticulture! We may ask you about soil types, plant propagation methods, or pest management strategies. This helps us assess your depth of knowledge and problem-solving skills – so don’t skip the revision!
✨Passion for Sustainability
Horticulture often revolves around sustainability practices, so be ready to discuss any experience you have with eco-friendly gardening methods or sustainable designs. This role at GDST might have a focus on environmental impact, so showing your commitment could set you apart from other candidates.
