At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a nursery and play centre, ensuring high standards of care and education.
- Company: A growing family-run nursery and children’s play centre in Croydon.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career progression, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Join a passionate team dedicated to nurturing young minds and fostering growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Early Years qualification and experience in managing an Early Years setting.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
We are looking for an experienced and motivated Nursery Manager / Operations Manager to join a growing nursery and children’s play centre business in Croydon. This is a full-time leadership position working alongside the business owner, combining nursery management with supporting the wider day‑to‑day operations of the nursery, children’s play café, and play centre. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Early Years leader seeking a varied management role with long‑term progression within a family‑run business.
You will be:
- Leading the day‑to‑day management of the nursery, ensuring high standards of care, education, and safeguarding.
- Supporting the overall operation of the children’s play café and play centre alongside the business owner.
- Managing, mentoring, and developing the nursery team through recruitment, supervision, and performance management.
- Ensuring full compliance with the EYFS framework, Ofsted requirements, health and safety, and safeguarding regulations.
- Building positive relationships with parents, carers, and external professionals.
- Supporting occupancy, business development, and the continued growth of the nursery.
- Overseeing operational processes, policies, record keeping, and quality assurance across the setting.
- Providing leadership across the wider business, including holiday cover for the play centre where required.
The successful candidate will hold a minimum Level 3 Early Years qualification and have substantial experience managing or leading an Early Years setting. A strong understanding of the EYFS framework, Ofsted requirements, safeguarding, staff leadership, and nursery operations is essential. Excellent organisational, communication, and people management skills are required, along with a proactive approach to supporting a growing business.
Salary: Depending on experience. We are an Equal Opportunities employer and are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff are expected to share this commitment.
Nursery Manager / Operations Manager in London employer: UCM Education
UCM Education is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and nurturing work environment in Croydon that prioritises the professional growth of its staff. With a strong commitment to high-quality childcare and education, employees benefit from ongoing training opportunities and a collaborative culture that values each team member's contributions. Join us to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children while enjoying a fulfilling career in early years education.
