Day Nursery Manager

Fernbees is a thriving 30-place day nursery located on the grounds of Fernlea Care Home. We are part of a successful, family-owned organisation that has operated care homes across Greater Manchester for over 30 years. Through long-standing partnerships with local schools and nurseries, we have seen the powerful benefits of intergenerational interaction—enhancing wellbeing, confidence, and curiosity for both children and older adults. Fernbees was created with this ethos at its heart and continues to grow as a warm, nurturing, and community-focused setting.

We are now seeking an experienced Nursery Manager to lead our dedicated team and continue driving high standards of care, education, and safeguarding. This is an excellent opportunity to manage an established, values-driven service while being part of an organisation that is recognised for its commitment to staff development and wellbeing.

About the Role

As Nursery Manager, you will be responsible for the overall leadership, management, and day-to-day running of the nursery. You will ensure the highest standards of early years practice, regulatory compliance, and safeguarding, while fostering a positive, supportive, and inspiring environment for children, families, and staff.

You will lead on curriculum planning, staff development, quality assurance, and partnership working, including maintaining our intergenerational approach with Fernlea Care Home.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strong, effective leadership to the nursery team
• Ensure full compliance with the EYFS, safeguarding legislation, and regulatory requirements
• Maintain high standards of care, learning, and environment
• Lead on staff recruitment, supervision, coaching, and performance management
• Oversee nursery operations, including rotas, occupancy, budgets, and health & safety
• Build positive relationships with parents, carers, and external partners
• Drive continuous improvement and prepare for regulatory inspections
• Promote and embed our intergenerational ethos

Personal Attributes

• Confident, supportive, and inspiring leadership style
• Ability to build trust and positive relationships with staff and families
• Highly motivated, reflective, and committed to continuous improvement
• Strong empathy and understanding of children’s and parents’ needs
• Excellent time-management and organisational skills

What We Offer

• Competitive salary
• Excellent training and development opportunities
• Supportive leadership and a caring, values-driven working environment
• The opportunity to lead a unique intergenerational nursery with a strong community identity

Please note: The successful candidate will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check. We are an equal opportunity employer.