Head of EYFS and Nursery Manager

Job summary

The Head of EYFS will be responsible for the overall leadership and management of the nursery ensuring the highest of standards of care, education, and compliance with regulatory requirements. They will work closely with the senior leadership to maintain a nurturing, stimulating and safe environment that aligns with the ethos and values of Tockington Manor School. Overseeing a team of room leaders and practitioners, we are looking for a dedicated leader who is enthusiastic and confident about childcare and who can demonstrate outstanding care and education. This is an exciting opportunity for a dedicated and experienced early years professional to lead a thriving nursery within a respected preparatory school. If you are passionate about providing outstanding early years education and shaping young learners’ futures, we would love to hear from you.

This role is a full time all year-round position.
You will be enrolled in the school’s support staff pension scheme and will be entitled to lunches (weekdays) and tea/coffee throughout the day. Use of the school’s facilities, including the swimming pool, can be used where available. Onsite parking is provided.
Please complete an online application form. The closing date for this position is 23rd May with interviews being held week commencing 2nd June.

Leadership and Management:

• Lead the vision, ethos, and strategic direction of the EYFS phase and nursery vision.
• Ensure the delivery of an outstanding EYFS curriculum that meets national standards and reflects the individual needs of children.
• Lead, motivate and support a team of nursery practitioners to provide outstanding early years education and care.
• Support school-wide leadership in embedding EYFS excellence throughout the foundation stage and transition into KS1.
• Ensure that the nursery operates in line with the schools, vision, policies, and education philosophy.
• Oversee the appraisal and professional development of staff.
• Foster strong relationships with parents, carers, and the wider school community.

Nursery Management:

• Manage the daily operation of the nursery including staff ratios and safeguarding.
• Ensure excellent standards of care, hygiene and safety are maintained at all times.
• Lead on supervision, training, and performance reviews of nursery staff

Curriculum and Learning:

• Implement and oversee the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum, ensuing a balance of academic, creative and play based learning.
• Monitor and assess children’s progress, ensuring that learning experiences are tailored to individual needs.
• Promote inclusive education, ensuring that all children including those with special educational needs thrive in a supportive environment.

Safeguarding, Health and Safety:

• Take overall responsibility for safeguarding and child protection with the nursery, ensuring that all policies and procedures are rigorously followed.
• Maintain high standards of health and safety in line with regulatory requirements.
• Ensure that risk assessments are conducted and updated regularly.
• Serve as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) for EYFS and support the wider safeguarding team as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL)

Regulatory Compliance and Administration:

• Ensure the nursery meets and exceeds the requirements of regulatory bodies such as ISI.
• Maintain accurate records, including attendance, safeguarding, and developmental progress.
• Manage the nursery budget effectively, ensuring financial sustainability and resource efficiency.

Parent Engagement:

• Establish and maintain strong, positive relationships with parents and carers, ensuring excellent communication and involvement in their child’s learning journey.
• Supporting with enquiries, tours, and enrolments

Act as an ambassador for the school, promoting its reputation and values.