At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a nursery, ensuring high standards of care and education for children.
- Company: Join a supportive and forward-thinking organisation with a strong community presence.
- Benefits: Up to £45,000 salary, 25 days leave, health services, and professional development.
- Other info: Exciting growth phase with structured training and clear progression pathways.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives while advancing your leadership career.
- Qualifications: Level 3 qualification in Early Years and proven leadership experience required.
The predicted salary is between 26550 - 32450 £ per year.
Application Deadline: Sunday, November 1, 2026
Location: Bristol, BS35 3UP - Thornbury
Salary: Up to £45,000.00 per annum plus performance related bonus
Positions Available: 1
Hours per week: 40
Job Summary: We’re looking for an experienced Senior Early Years Manager to lead our Thornbury Nursery in Bristol. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a real impact by shaping a high-quality learning environment where children can thrive, while building a rewarding leadership career within a supportive and forward-thinking organisation at an exciting time of growth.
You’ll lead the day-to-day running of the nursery, ensuring the highest standards of care and education. By inspiring your team and fostering strong relationships with families, you’ll create a safe, engaging, and stimulating environment where every child can flourish.
What we offer:
- Pension & Life Assurance
- 25 days Annual Leave plus Bank Holidays and more!
- An additional day each year to celebrate something personal to you
- Funded DBS Update Service
- Funded Blue Light Card Membership
- Access to digital GP 24/7 with on-demand counselling services
- Extensive Health and Wellbeing services through the SPARK APP
- Recognition and celebration for Long Service
Why join us? Thornbury nursery is a well-established nursery with a strong community presence and a dedicated team. The nursery is entering an exciting new phase, focused on strengthening leadership, enhancing quality, and building an environment where both children and staff can truly thrive. This is a great opportunity to take on a key leadership role within a growing setting. With increased interest in the local area and continued development plans, you’ll play a central role in shaping the nursery’s future and making a lasting difference. We invest in you as much as you invest in the children and your team. You’ll benefit from structured training, leadership mentoring, and clear progression pathways, supporting your continued growth and career advancement.
What you’ll do:
- Oversee the day-to-day running of the nursery in line with EYFS and Ofsted standards
- Lead, motivate, and develop a team of practitioners to deliver outstanding childcare
- Manage budgets, staffing, and resources effectively
- Build strong relationships with parents, carers, and the local community
- Drive continuous improvement and maintain a safe, nurturing environment
What we’re looking for:
- Level 3 (or above) qualification in Early Years/Childcare
- Proven leadership experience in an early years setting
- Strong knowledge of EYFS, safeguarding, and regulatory requirements
- Excellent organisational, communication, and people management skills
- A proactive, approachable leadership style and passion for high-quality care
Safeguarding commitment: Happy Days Nurseries are committed to the safety and wellbeing of the children in our care. All successful candidates will undergo the required vetting process.
Senior Early Years Manager in Bristol employer: Happy Days Nurseries
Happy Days is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment in Swindon where employees can thrive and develop their careers. With flexible working arrangements, ongoing professional development opportunities, and a strong commitment to health and wellbeing, you will find a workplace that values your contributions and fosters growth. Join us to make a meaningful impact in a growing organisation dedicated to supporting early years education.
