Day Nursery Manager

Job summary

About the Nursery

We are a brand-new children's nursery setting up to provide outstanding early years education and care in a nurturing, stimulating, and safe environment. Our vision is to support children's development holistically while giving parents confidence and peace of mind.

As we launch our services, we are seeking a dynamic, experienced, and passionate Nursery Manager to lead the nursery through setup, registration, and daily operations, shaping the foundations of a truly exceptional early years environment.

Job Purpose

To lead, manage, and grow the nursery from inception, ensuring the highest standards of care, safeguarding, education, and compliance. The Nursery Manager will play a pivotal role in setting up operational procedures, recruiting and training staff, and building a strong, inclusive culture aligned with the nursery’s vision and values.

Key Responsibilities

Setup & Registration

• Lead the nursery through OFSTED registration and ensure full compliance with all regulatory requirements.
• Assist in designing the nursery layout and selecting appropriate resources and equipment.
• Develop all necessary policies and procedures in line with EYFS and statutory guidance.

Leadership & Management

• Recruit, train, and lead a high-performing team of early years professionals.
• Provide strong leadership to staff, fostering a positive team culture.
• Carry out staff appraisals, supervision, mentoring, and development planning.

Operations

• Oversee the day-to-day running of the nursery, ensuring a safe, stimulating, and enriching environment.
• Manage staff rotas, attendance, and holiday cover.
• Handle occupancy levels, enrolment, and waiting lists.
• Implement safeguarding policies and promote child protection at all times.

Curriculum & Care

• Ensure high standards of teaching and learning in line with the EYFS framework.
• Monitor children’s development and support the creation of tailored learning plans.
• Foster strong partnerships with parents and carers through regular communication and updates.

Compliance & Quality

• Ensure full compliance with health and safety, data protection, equality, and inclusion standards.
• Conduct regular risk assessments and audits of the environment.
• Prepare the setting for OFSTED inspections and work toward achieving an “Outstanding” rating.

Business Development

• Collaborate with the nursery owner to drive enrolment, marketing, and local engagement.
• Monitor budgets, fees, and expenditures in line with financial targets.
• Maintain records and reporting systems as required for internal and external stakeholders.

Person Specification

Essential

• Minimum Level 3 qualification in Early Years Education (e.g. NVQ, CACHE, or equivalent).
• Experience of nursery management or deputy management experience.
• Strong knowledge of the EYFS framework and current safeguarding legislation.
• Proven experience of working with OFSTED requirements and inspection processes.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organisational skills.
• Confidence in managing budgets, enrolment, and staffing.

Desirable

• Level 5 or higher in Early Years or Leadership (e.g. Foundation Degree, Early Years Teacher Status).
• Experience in a start-up or new setting.
• First Aid and Safeguarding certifications.
• Familiarity with nursery software (e.g. Famly, Tapestry, or similar).

Benefits

• Opportunity to shape and lead a brand-new setting.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Competitive salary and bonus incentives.
• Supportive ownership structure with room for growth.
• Discount on childcare fees
• Refer a friend bonus scheme