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- Tasks: Lead a vibrant nursery, ensuring high-quality care and education for children.
- Company: Join the UK's largest employee-owned childcare group with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy a £3000 welcome bonus, up to £10,000 performance bonus, and generous holiday allowance.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in children's lives while growing your career in a rewarding environment.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Early Years qualification and previous management experience required.
- Other info: Be part of a recognised World’s Happiest Workplace with excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 54000 £ per year.
The successful candidate will receive a £3000 welcome bonus. Relocation packages available.
Location: Poole, Dorset, United Kingdom
Job type: Full Time Permanent
Contracted Hours: 40 hours per week
We are offering a package up to £55,000, including an annual salary up to £45,000 (depending on experience) + up to a £10,000 performance bonus.
Why Join Tops Day Nurseries? At Tops Day Nurseries, we’ve been shaping futures since 1990. As the UK’s largest employee‑owned childcare group, we know that valuing people is the key to success. When you join us, you become more than an employee—you become a co‑owner with a voice, opportunities to grow, and a share in our success. With over 30 nurseries across the South of England, we provide outstanding early years education and childcare for babies, toddlers, and preschool children.
The Role: Senior Nursery Manager
This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Early Years leader looking for a fresh start and a chance to put their own stamp on a well‑resourced, high‑potential setting. As a Senior Nursery Manager, you’ll be responsible for leading the team, managing daily operations, and ensuring the highest standard of care and education. You’ll also work closely with parents and carers, oversee budgets, and ensure the nursery is Ofsted‑ready.
About The Nursery: Tops Poole Nursery is a 132‑place Day Nursery & Pre‑School situated in Poole. The nursery runs several extra‑curricular activities including before and after school clubs, cooking school, Boogie Mites, yoga, tooth brushing, football fun and much more!
Why You’ll Love Working with Us:
- £3000 Welcome Bonus to kick‑start your journey with us
- Relocation support of up to £3,000 (T&Cs apply)
- Up to a £10,000 performance bonus
- Up to 60% childcare discount at Tops Day Nurseries
- Exclusive discounts & rewards via Blue Light Card and Each Person platform (gyms, cinema, shopping, travel & many more)
- Health & wellbeing support - NHS prescriptions, optical care & dental treatment
- A generous holiday allowance – including your birthday off & a wellbeing day
What does the Senior Nursery Manager role involve?
- Lead the daily running of the nursery, creating a safe, inspiring, and nurturing environment for children.
- Design & deliver high-quality early years education and childcare experiences that spark curiosity, confidence, and joy.
- Build strong partnerships with parents, carers, and staff through clear communication and a positive, supportive approach.
- Plan and deliver a vibrant calendar of events and activities that enrich children’s development and celebrate their achievements.
- Recruit, develop, and support staff to maintain a motivated, high‑performing team.
- Manage nursery budgets, enrolments, and parent enquiries with professionalism and efficiency.
- Adhering to Ofsted complaints inspections and implementation of recommendations, ensuring we maintain quality standards.
- Promote the nursery through marketing initiatives and outstanding customer care.
- Maintain facilities, equipment, and resources to the highest standards of safety and effectiveness.
Key Requirements:
- A minimum Level 3 Early Years qualification
- Previous experience as a Nursery Manager or in a senior childcare role.
- Strong knowledge of EYFS safeguarding procedures & Ofsted standards.
- Excellent communication, organisational & leadership skills
- A creative and confident approach to education and childcare.
Important Safeguarding Information:
Because this role involves regulated activity with children, all candidates must:
- Hold (or be willing to obtain) an enhanced DBS check registered on the Update Service.
- Be eligible to work in regulated roles – not on the Children’s Barred List.
- Successfully complete background and reference checks.
At Tops Day Nurseries, we are an equal opportunities employer, committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected.
Apply Now: Excited to make a difference? Take the next step in your career and join Tops Day Nurseries.
Senior Nursery Manager in Poole employer: Tops Day Nurseries Ltd
Contact Detail:
Tops Day Nurseries Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Nursery Manager in Poole
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the childcare sector, attend local events, and join relevant online groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the nursery's values and recent achievements. Tailor your answers to show how your experience aligns with their mission. Remember, they want to see your passion for early years education!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills during the interview. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams or improved nursery operations in the past. This is your chance to shine and demonstrate your fit for the Senior Nursery Manager role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the latest opportunities and benefits we offer, including that sweet £3000 welcome bonus!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Nursery Manager in Poole
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Senior Nursery Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that match the job description, especially your leadership and early years education expertise.
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for early years education shine through in your application. Share specific examples of how you've made a positive impact in previous roles, as we love to see candidates who are genuinely passionate about shaping young minds.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon, making it easy for us to see why you’re the perfect fit for the role. Remember, first impressions count!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of success. It’s super easy, and you’ll find all the information you need to get started on your journey with us at Tops Day Nurseries.
How to prepare for a job interview at Tops Day Nurseries Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of EYFS safeguarding procedures and Ofsted standards. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you’re not just a candidate, but a knowledgeable leader ready to take charge.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Think about specific situations where you motivated staff or improved nursery operations. This will help demonstrate your capability as a Senior Nursery Manager.
✨Engage with Parents and Carers
Since building strong partnerships with parents is key, be ready to discuss your approach to communication and support. Share any innovative ideas you have for engaging families and enhancing their experience at the nursery.
✨Bring Your Creativity
As a Senior Nursery Manager, creativity is crucial. Prepare to share your ideas for vibrant activities and events that enrich children's development. This will highlight your ability to create an inspiring environment for both children and staff.