Nursery Manager in Kirkham

Step by Step Education is one of the leading Education Recruitment agencies in the North West. We are recruiting on behalf of a nursery based in Kirkham that is looking to recruit a Nursery Manager.

Job Details:

• Location: Kirkham
• Hours: Monday to Friday - shift patterns between 7.30am-6.00pm

Job Purpose

To lead and manage the overall operation of the nursery, ensuring the highest standards of care, education, safeguarding, and compliance. The Nursery Manager is responsible for creating a safe, stimulating, and inclusive environment where children can learn and develop, while effectively leading staff and maintaining strong partnerships with parents and external agencies.

Key Responsibilities

• Leadership & Management
  • Lead, motivate, and support the nursery team to deliver high-quality childcare and education
  • Manage staff recruitment, induction, training, and performance
  • Promote a positive, inclusive, and professional working environment
  • Ensure staff ratios and deployment meet regulatory requirements
• Quality of Care & Education
  • Oversee planning and delivery of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum
  • Monitor children’s progress and ensure individual needs are met
  • Maintain high standards of learning, development, and care
  • Continuously improve practice through evaluation and feedback
• Safeguarding & Compliance
  • Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) or support safeguarding practices
  • Ensure full compliance with Ofsted requirements and EYFS statutory framework
  • Maintain accurate records, policies, and procedures
  • Ensure health & safety standards are consistently met
• Parent & Community Engagement
  • Build strong relationships with parents and carers
  • Address concerns and feedback professionally
  • Promote the nursery within the local community
  • Liaise with external agencies and professionals where required
• Operational & Financial Management
  • Manage budgets, occupancy levels, and resource allocation
  • Ensure efficient day-to-day running of the nursery
  • Maintain accurate administrative and financial records
  • Support business growth and sustainability

Person Specification

• Essential:
  • Level 3 qualification (minimum) in Early Years/Childcare (Level 5 or above desirable)
  • Previous experience in a leadership or supervisory role within a nursery setting
  • Strong knowledge of the EYFS framework and Ofsted requirements
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and organisational skills
  • Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children
• Desirable:
  • Paediatric First Aid qualification
  • Safeguarding training (DSL level)
  • Experience with nursery management systems and budgeting

Key Skills & Attributes

• Strong leadership and team management
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Organised, proactive, and solution-focused
• Passionate about early years education and child development
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities

Safeguarding Statement

This role is subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references. The nursery is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment.

How to apply

If you feel that this role is something you would like to be considered for, please e-mail your CV to Mya at Step by Step Education or call the office for a chat. Alternatively, simply apply for this advert via Indeed and Mya will contact you directly ASAP.

Pay: £30,000.00-£38,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Employee mentoring programme
• Free parking

Work Location: In person