At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire a bilingual Early Years programme for children aged 1-6.
- Company: Join the vibrant community at the German School London, embracing diversity and global responsibility.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, paid holidays, career development, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Enjoy autonomy, team-building activities, and excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on young lives while fostering a nurturing learning environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in Early Childhood Education and fluent in German and English required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
The German School London has a unique opportunity for an experienced Nursery Manager/ Head of Early Years Education to join our international Kinderhaus.
About the DSL
The DSL is part of the network of German Schools Abroad and has over 880 children and young people from over 30 nations. We are an international, cosmopolitan community that embraces diversity and we strive to prepare our pupils for their lives in a global context and local responsibility, while promoting their independence. Children from 1 – 6 come together and grow together in the Kinderhaus. In two separate settings with bright buildings, everything is tailored to the needs of our youngest children. The provisions consist of Sudbrook Kinderhaus and DSL Kinderhaus.
The Role
The Head of Kinderhaus provides strategic and operational leadership for the Early Years provision (ages 1–6) across two sites: Deutsche Schule London and Sudbrook School. The role is responsible for the effective delivery, development and management of a high-quality bi-lingual Early Years programme. The position ensures consistent educational standards in line with regulatory frameworks, including German school guidelines and the UK Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). Reporting to the Headteacher and working closely with the Director of Sudbrook School, the role contributes to the overall strategic direction of the organisation.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the day-to-day operations of the Kinderhaus, including staffing, scheduling and budget management
- Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations (EYFS, safeguarding, health & safety, German school standards)
- Maintain a high-quality, inspiring and nurturing learning environment
- Oversee curriculum development and support effective teaching and learning
- Monitor children’s progress and ensure appropriate support for individual needs
- Work closely with SENCo and specialists to support children with additional needs
- Build strong relationships with parents through regular communication and meetings
- Recruit, develop and manage staff, including training and performance reviews
- Foster a collaborative team culture and ensure smooth operations across both sites
- Represent the school to prospective families, including tours and admissions processes
- Lead and support events (e.g. open days, school events)
- Contribute to the senior leadership team and strategic planning
- Balance educational excellence with commercial awareness to support sustainable operations
Requirements
- Degree or equivalent in Early Childhood Education, Social Sciences or related field (Level 4/5, EYTS or QTS preferred)
- Fluent in German and English (written and spoken)
- 5–10 years experience in early years education
- Excellent organisational, communication and leadership skills
- Ability to motivate teams and work effectively under pressure
- Safeguarding training (Level 3)
- At least 2 years leadership experience (team management, planning, budgeting)
- Strong knowledge of child development, EYFS and German early years standards
What’s on offer
- Competitive salary
- Paid holiday (exceptions apply on certain days)
- Enhanced sick pay
- Autonomous working and being part of the Senior Leadership Team
- Career development opportunities
- Employee discount schemes
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
- High-quality canteen with very reasonable prices
- Free parking
- Excellent pension scheme
- Awards for long service / gifts to mark career milestones
- Events / team-building activities
The School has a sponsorship licence and will support the visa process.
Applications must include a Covering Letter and CV, stating how the applicant meets the requirements of the job. The School has a continuous, three stage interview process, and reserves the right to close the recruitment process early. Application deadline: 31 May 2026.
Nursery Manager in London employer: German School Associataion
The German School London offers a vibrant and inclusive work environment for the Nursery Manager role, where you will lead a dedicated team in delivering high-quality bilingual early years education. With competitive salaries, career development opportunities, and a strong emphasis on employee well-being, including an Employee Assistance Programme and team-building activities, this is an excellent opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a diverse community. Located in a cosmopolitan setting, you will enjoy the benefits of working in a supportive atmosphere that values both educational excellence and personal growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Nursery Manager in London
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research the German School London and its values. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips about the interview process and what the school really values in a Nursery Manager.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky questions! Think about how you would handle specific scenarios related to early years education, staffing, and compliance. Practising your responses can give you the confidence you need.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready to embrace the digital age in education.
We think you need these skills to ace Nursery Manager in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Keep Your CV Fresh:Make sure your CV is up to date and tailored to the Nursery Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience in early years education and any leadership roles you've held. We want to see how you can bring your unique skills to our Kinderhaus!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the position. Be sure to mention your passion for early childhood education and how you align with our values at the German School London.
Showcase Your Bilingual Skills:Since fluency in both German and English is key for this role, make sure to highlight your language skills prominently. Whether it's in your CV or cover letter, we want to know how you can communicate effectively with our diverse community.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to hit 'Apply' on our website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you're keen and ready to join our fantastic team at the DSL!
How to prepare for a job interview at German School Associataion
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and German early years standards. Brush up on the latest regulations and best practices in early childhood education, as this will show your commitment and expertise during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Think about specific challenges you faced, how you motivated your staff, and the outcomes of your leadership. This will help demonstrate your capability to manage the day-to-day operations of the Kinderhaus.
✨Engage with the Community
Since building relationships with parents is key, think of ways you can foster communication and engagement. Be ready to discuss how you would approach parent meetings and community events, showcasing your ability to create a nurturing environment for both children and families.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations, such as supporting children with additional needs or managing staff conflicts. Practise your responses to these scenarios to show your problem-solving skills and your understanding of child development.
