At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team to manage a thriving pre-school environment for children aged 2-4.
- Company: Join Oakey Dokeys, a well-rated pre-school dedicated to nurturing children's growth through play.
- Benefits: Enjoy a part-time role with holiday pay and a supportive team atmosphere.
- Other info: Position requires a DBS check and references; flexible hours discussed at interview.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on young lives while working in a fun, collaborative setting.
- Qualifications: Must have Level 3 in Early Years Childcare and previous managerial experience.
Job Ref No. ECC462559-3S Position Type: Early Years Pay Range: 14.94
Position Start Date: Immediate Contract Type: Part-time Contract Term: Permanent
Application Close: 07/07/2025 Midday Date of Interviews: TBC
Job Description Post: Pre-School Manager
Start date: To be discussed with applicant
Hours: 32 hours a week term time, +96 hours p/a non-term time (times to be discussed at interview)
About Oakey Dokeys Pre-School
We are a busy, Ofsted graded \"good\", sessional pre-school, set in the village of Great Oakley, run by a voluntary committee. Our unique approach creates an environment in which our children, aged 2-4, thrive and learn through play. Our long-standing team of staff, and our committee, are dedicated to continuing to provide the highest level of care that parents have come to expect. We are progressive and inquisitive; always seeking to be responsive to individual children\'s needs and work in partnership to be supportive of the whole family.
Person Specification
We are seeking a Pre-School Manager to join our special team of Early Years Practitioners. The successful candidate will be dynamic, forward thinking and adaptable to change, with strong leadership skills and the ability to think on their feet and respond to situations as they arise. Working very closely with as part of a team is paramount. The role requires a high level of passion, energy and commitment to our ethos and a good sense of humour is essential. Exceptional interpersonal and management skills are key as the manager will need to run a small team of staff and liaise extensively with parents, outside agencies and the management committee.
The Oakey Dokeys team
Our team consists of experienced practitioners with a range of qualifications and experience who work within the room with groups of children and in 1-2-1 situations. The day to day administrative and financial management of the Pre-School is co-ordinated by our Business Manager.
Duties will include
· Mange the Pre-School in line with Ofsted requirements and the EYFS framework.
· Lead and inspire a team of early years professionals
· Safeguarding Lead for the setting.
· Ensure all safeguarding, health & safety and wellbeing procedures are followed.
· Oversee planning and assessment to support children\'s development.
· Supervising all staff/volunteers and offering support and guidance where necessary, regarding performance and training. Carrying out regular supervision sessions.
· Undertaking relevant training as necessary.
· Developing and maintaining strong relationships with parents/carers.
· Effectively manage staffing levels.
· Drive continuous improvement across the setting.
· Working with outside agencies, such as schools, health visitors, paediatricians, Essex County Council and Specialist Teachers.
· Working alongside the Business Manager regarding day-to-day administration, including registers, ordering and purchasing materials and equipment.
· Being involved in financial accountability of the pre-school by working closely with the Business Manager and Committee regarding budgets and staffing.
· Liaising with the Management Committee where necessary, keeping them informed of matters that arise that impact the business.
· Undertaking other duties as they become necessary to ensure the successful running of the setting.
· Minimum level 3 in Early Years Childcare or equivalent.
· Previous managerial experience and at least 3 years\' experience of working in a Pre-School/Nursery.
· Level 3 in maths
· Strong leadership, organisational and interpersonal skills
· Basic computer literacy.
· Current Paediatric First Aid Certificate.
· Current Food and Hygiene Certificate.
· Full Driving Licence.
Terms of employment
· Rate of pay: £14.94 per hour.
· Contract hours: 32 hours per week, 41 weeks per year, plus 5.6 weeks holiday pay per annum. Term time only.
· The right to work in the UK.
References
References will be required; successful applicants will be subject to an enhanced DBS check.
We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if sufficient applications received.
All appointments are subject to safer recruitment requirements to ensure the safeguarding of children and young people. All positions will involve appropriate checks and clearances.
Helen Hill
Grounds of All Saints Primary School
Beaumont Road
Great Oakley, Harwich
Essex, CO12 5BA Telephone: 01255 880880
Email: info@oakeydokeys.co.uk
Pre-School Manager employer: Shorefields
At Oakey Dokeys Pre-School, we pride ourselves on being a supportive and nurturing employer, dedicated to the professional growth of our team. Our work culture fosters collaboration and creativity, allowing our staff to thrive in an environment that values their contributions and encourages continuous improvement. Located in the charming village of Great Oakley, we offer a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young children while enjoying a fulfilling work-life balance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Pre-School Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Ofsted requirements and the EYFS framework. Understanding these guidelines will not only help you in the interview but also demonstrate your commitment to maintaining high standards in early years education.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership skills by preparing examples of how you've successfully managed a team in the past. Be ready to discuss specific situations where you inspired or supported your colleagues, as this is crucial for the Pre-School Manager role.
✨Tip Number 3
Research Oakey Dokeys Pre-School and its unique approach to early years education. Being able to articulate why you want to work there and how you align with their ethos will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with safeguarding and health & safety procedures. This is a key responsibility of the role, so demonstrating your knowledge and proactive approach in these areas will be essential during the interview.
We think you need these skills to ace Pre-School Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in early years education and management. Emphasise your leadership skills, any previous roles in a pre-school or nursery, and your qualifications, especially if you have a Level 3 in Early Years Childcare.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for early years education. Mention specific examples of how you've led teams, managed safeguarding procedures, and developed relationships with parents and outside agencies. Show them why you're the perfect fit for Oakey Dokeys.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:Include any relevant certifications such as Paediatric First Aid and Food Hygiene in your application. These are crucial for the role and demonstrate your commitment to safety and well-being in a pre-school setting.
Showcase Your Personality:Since the role requires a good sense of humour and strong interpersonal skills, let your personality shine through in your application. Use a friendly tone and share anecdotes that illustrate your adaptability and enthusiasm for working with children and families.
How to prepare for a job interview at Shorefields
✨Show Your Passion for Early Years Education
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with young children. Share specific examples of how you've fostered a nurturing environment in previous roles, and highlight your commitment to the ethos of play-based learning.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you inspire and manage a team. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully led a team in a previous role, particularly in challenging situations.
✨Know the Ofsted Requirements
Familiarise yourself with Ofsted regulations and the EYFS framework. Be prepared to discuss how you would ensure compliance and drive continuous improvement within the pre-school setting.
✨Build Rapport with Parents and Stakeholders
Highlight your interpersonal skills by discussing how you've built strong relationships with parents and external agencies in the past. Share strategies you've used to communicate effectively and involve families in their children's learning.
