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.
Nursery - Childcare Manager in Teddington employer: German School Associataion
The German School London is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and diverse work environment that values the contributions of its staff. As a Nursery - Childcare Manager, you will benefit from competitive salaries, career development opportunities, and a supportive team culture, all while working in a nurturing setting that prioritises high-quality early years education. With additional perks such as enhanced sick pay, employee assistance programmes, and team-building activities, the DSL fosters a rewarding atmosphere for professional growth and personal fulfilment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Nursery - Childcare 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 situational questions! Think about your past experiences in early years education and how they relate to the role. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've led teams or managed challenges.
✨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.
We think you need these skills to ace Nursery - Childcare 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 Nursery Manager 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 what drives your passion for early years education. Share specific examples of how you've created inspiring learning environments or supported children's development in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to hit 'Apply' on our website! This ensures your application goes directly to us and helps streamline the process. 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 your leadership experience, especially in managing teams and budgets. Think about specific challenges you've faced and how you motivated your team to overcome them. This will demonstrate your capability to lead the Kinderhaus effectively.
✨Engage with the Community
Since the role involves building relationships with parents and representing the school, think of ways you can foster community engagement. Be ready to share ideas on how you would enhance communication and collaboration with families.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations, such as supporting children with additional needs or ensuring compliance with regulations. Practise your responses to these scenarios to show your problem-solving skills and adaptability.
