Founding Nursery Manager in Newcastle upon Tyne

Founding Nursery Manager in Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne Full-Time 45000 - 50000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the creation of a brand-new nursery and inspire exceptional early years education.
  • Company: Join the prestigious Royal Grammar School community in shaping young minds.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, free lunches, pension scheme, and ongoing professional development.
  • Other info: Be part of a supportive and ambitious community dedicated to excellence.
  • Why this job: Make a lasting impact on children's lives and build a nurturing environment from scratch.
  • Qualifications: Level 3 Early Years qualification and significant leadership experience required.

The predicted salary is between 45000 - 50000 £ per year.

Founding Nursery Manager

Location

Westfield School, Gosforth – part of the Royal Grammar School Newcastle Group of Schools

Closing Date

9.00am Wednesday 9 September 2026 (Early applications encouraged)

Salary

£45,000–£50,000 (dependent on experience)

The Royal Grammar School, Newcastle is embarking on an exciting new chapter as it develops Westfield Nursery into a premium, year‑round nursery providing exceptional care and education for children from babies through to school age.

This is far more than a Nursery Manager role.

It is a rare opportunity to help create a brand‑new nursery, shape its culture, influence its curriculum and establish an outstanding learning environment from the very beginning.

Working alongside the leadership team, you will play a pivotal role in preparing the nursery for opening, supporting Ofsted registration and creating a setting recognised for excellence in early years education.

About the Role

As Founding Nursery Manager, you will provide inspirational leadership, creating a culture where children, families and colleagues thrive.

  • Lead the development of a high‑quality nursery from babies through to pre‑school.
  • Prepare the nursery for successful Ofsted registration.
  • Recruit, develop and inspire an exceptional staff team.
  • Create an ambitious curriculum reflecting best practice in early years education.
  • Develop outstanding relationships with children, families and the wider school community.
  • Embed high standards of safeguarding, quality and regulatory compliance.
  • Support occupancy growth through an exceptional parent experience.
  • Create an environment where children develop confidence, curiosity and a lifelong love of learning.

About You

We're looking for an ambitious early years leader who combines strong operational leadership with a genuine passion for delivering exceptional childcare.

  • A minimum Level 3 Early Years qualification (or equivalent full and relevant qualification).
  • Significant leadership experience within an early years setting.
  • Excellent knowledge of the EYFS.
  • Experience working with Ofsted and maintaining high standards of quality and compliance.
  • Strong leadership, organisational and communication skills.
  • A commitment to delivering outstanding outcomes for children and families.

Experience of opening a new nursery, managing change or supporting Ofsted registration would be advantageous but is not essential.

Why Join Westfield?

This is a genuine opportunity to build something special.

  • Create a brand‑new nursery from the ground up.
  • Influence the vision, culture and curriculum.
  • Work within the prestigious Royal Grammar School community.
  • Build and lead your own team.
  • Shape the learning environment and parent experience.
  • Develop innovative approaches to early years education.
  • Leave a lasting legacy for generations of children and families.
  • About Westfield

Founded in 1960, Westfield places great emphasis on combining academic excellence with educating the whole child.

The school values every child as an individual, creating a nurturing environment where children develop confidence, curiosity and a lifelong love of learning.

The new nursery will provide an exceptional start for babies and young children while creating a natural pathway into Westfield Junior House, the RGS Junior School and other local schools.

The nursery will operate 51 weeks per year, transitioning from the existing term‑time model into a premium, year‑round early years provision.

What We Offer

  • Salary £45,000–£50,000 depending on experience.
  • Free lunch during term time.
  • Pension scheme and life assurance.
  • Optional healthcare plan.
  • Ongoing professional development.
  • Bike to Work scheme.
  • Interest‑free travel loan.
  • Discounted school fees (subject to eligibility).
  • Access to staff wellbeing support and social events.
  • A supportive, ambitious and friendly community.

How to Apply

For an informal discussion, please contact Mrs Nikki Miller, Director of Finance and Operations, via jobs@rgs. newcastle. sch. uk.

For further information and an application form, please visit

www. rgs. newcastle. sch. uk/join-us/work-with-us

Please submit

  • A covering letter.
  • A completed RGS application form.

Applications should be emailed to jobs@rgs. newcastle. sch. uk by 9.00am Wednesday 9 September 2026.

Safeguarding Statement

The RGS Newcastle Group of Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

All appointments are subject to appropriate safeguarding checks in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education and the school's safer recruitment procedures.

Equal Opportunities

The RGS Newcastle Group of Schools is proud to be an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates.

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Founding Nursery Manager in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: Westfield School Newcastle

Joining Westfield School as the Founding Nursery Manager offers a unique opportunity to shape a brand-new nursery within a prestigious educational community. With a strong emphasis on professional development, competitive salary, and a supportive work culture, you will lead a dedicated team in creating an exceptional early years environment that fosters children's growth and learning. This role not only allows for personal and professional growth but also enables you to leave a lasting legacy for future generations of children and families.

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Contact Details:

Westfield School Newcastle Recruitment Team

We think you need these skills to ace Founding Nursery Manager in Newcastle upon Tyne

Leadership Skills
Early Years Qualification (Level 3 or equivalent)
Knowledge of EYFS
Ofsted Experience
Organisational Skills
Communication Skills
Curriculum Development