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: Enjoy competitive salary, career development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic leadership team with excellent growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while leading a passionate team.
- 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.
Recruitment 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.
Childcare & nursery manager in Teddington employer: German School Associataion
The German School London is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and diverse work environment that fosters professional growth and collaboration. As a part of an international community, employees benefit from competitive salaries, career development opportunities, and a supportive leadership team, all while contributing to the nurturing of young minds in a bilingual setting. With excellent employee benefits, including enhanced sick pay, a high-quality canteen, and team-building activities, the DSL is committed to creating a rewarding workplace for its staff.
Contact Details:
German School Associataion Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Childcare & nursery manager in Teddington
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research the German School London and its values. This will help you tailor your conversations 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 employees on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips about the interview process and what the school really values in a candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky questions! Think about how your experience aligns with the key responsibilities listed in the job description. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your leadership and management skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a great way to reinforce your interest and keep you top of mind for the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Childcare & nursery manager in Teddington
Some tips for your application 🫡
Keep Your CV Fresh:Make sure your CV is up to date and tailored to the role. Highlight your 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 Head of Kinderhaus position. Be sure to mention your bilingual skills and how you align with our values at the German School London.
Showcase Your Passion for Education:In both your CV and cover letter, let us know why early years education matters to you. Share any relevant experiences that demonstrate your commitment to nurturing young minds and fostering a positive learning environment.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to hit 'Apply' on our website! This ensures your application goes directly to us, making it easier for our team to review your materials. We can't wait to see what you bring to the table!
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 your knowledge of child development and be ready to discuss how you would implement these frameworks in a bilingual setting.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Think about specific situations where you motivated staff, managed budgets, or improved operations. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities of the Head of Kinderhaus role.
✨Engage with the Community
Since building relationships with parents is key, think of ways you can foster communication and collaboration. Be ready to share your ideas on how to involve families in their children's education and how you would handle any concerns they might have.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills. Prepare for questions like how you would handle a safeguarding issue or support a child with additional needs. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
