Nursery Manager

We are looking for a dedicated Nursery Manager in Colchester!

Are you a passionate and experienced Nursery Manager ready to lead a vibrant nursery in Colchester

Join Orchard Barns and help us shape a nurturing, stimulating environment where children truly thrive!

About Us:

The Role:

Orchard Barns Nursery, Stratford St Mary, is a private day nursery, situated in a light and spacious building. We are open full-time from 8:00 am – 6:00 pm, caring for children from 3 months to 5 years.

Our philosophy is that every child we care for deserves a calm, caring, safe and stimulating environment in which to learn.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee all operational aspects of the nursery
• Lead, motivate, and support a team of Early Years Practitioners
• Ensure the nursery meets Ofsted standards and follows EYFS requirements
• Develop strong relationships with children, parents, carers, and staff
• Manage budgets, staff rotas, and occupancy levels
• Promote a safe, inclusive, and enriching environment for all children

About You:

• Minimum Level 3 qualification in Childcare (or above)
• At least 2 years of leadership experience in an early years setting
• Sound knowledge of the EYFS and safeguarding procedures
• Excellent communication, organisational, and leadership skills
• A genuine passion for early years education and making a difference

What We Offer:

• Paycare Medical Cover -contributions towards everything from dental and optical cover to free same-day GP appointments and Lifestyle Assessment.
• We are pleased to now offer a 75% childcare discount to our staff, supporting working parents in balancing their careers and family life
• MyGym / MyActive discounts – up to 25% off your monthly gym fees and from all your gym clothing and equipment. All types of gyms covered, from David Lloyds to your local council-run leisure centre.
• Paycare Perks – shopping discounts from over 300 High Street stores including Sainsburys, John Lewis, H&M, Boots and New Look.
• Recommend a Friend – earn up to £1,500 for each recruit once you join us by recommending us to others you know.
• Training and Development – benefit from our sector-leading, regular training programmes that helps us ensure every child in our care has the very best start for their lifetime of learning.
• Plus 33 days holiday including bank holidays

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We expect all staff to share this commitment.

The successful applicant will be required to undergo comprehensive suitability checks, including:

• Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check
• Appropriate employment references
• Verification of qualifications
• Right to work checks
• Completion of all safer recruitment requirements

All appointments are subject to satisfactory clearance of these checks in line with our Safeguarding Policy.

Ready to make your mark as a Nursery Manager?

We’d love to hear from you!

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Employee discount
• Referral programme