Senior Nursery Manager

Tops Day Nurseries; Dorset; On-site; CAD 67,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading childcare provider is seeking a Senior Nursery Manager to lead their team and ensure excellence in early years education. The role includes managing daily operations, overseeing budgets, and ensuring compliance with Ofsted standards. Candidates should have a Level 3 Early Years qualification and previous managerial experience. Benefits include a £3000 welcome bonus, relocation support, and professional development opportunities, making this a great chance for passionate leaders in education.

Benefits

£3000 Welcome Bonus

Relocation support

Up to 60% childcare discount

Health & wellbeing support

Generous holiday allowance

Qualifications

• Minimum Level 3 Early Years qualification required.
• Experience as a Nursery Manager or in a senior childcare role.
• Strong knowledge of EYFS safeguarding procedures & Ofsted standards required.

Responsibilities

• Lead the daily operations and create a nurturing environment for children.
• Design and deliver high-quality early years education experiences.
• Build strong partnerships with parents and staff.

Skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Leadership skills

Creative approach to education

Education

Level 3 Early Years qualification

Job description

THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE WILL RECEIVE £3000 WELCOME BONUS!!!

RELOCATION PACKAGES AVAILABLE!

Senior Nursery Manager

Location: Poole, Dorset, United Kingdom Dorset

Job type: Full Time Permanent

Salary: Up to £42,500 (Depending on experience)

Contracted Hours: 40 hours per week

Why Join Tops Day Nurseries?

At Tops Day Nurseries, we’ve been shaping futures since 1990. As the UK’s largest employee-owned childcare group, we know that valuing people is the key to success. When you join us, you become more than an employee you become a co‑owner with a voice, opportunities to grow, and a share in our success.

With over 30 nurseries across the South of England, we provide outstanding early years education and childcare for babies, toddlers, and preschool children. With opportunities for Apprenticeship, Nursery practitioners, Nursery Managers & Casual staff, we are always looking for passionate individuals to join us.

We’re proud to be recognised as a World’s Happiest Workplace 2025 and one of the Top 10 Apprenticeship Employers in the UK (2024).

The Role: Senior Nursery Manager

This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Early Years leader looking for a fresh start and a chance to put their own stamp on a well‑resourced, high‑potential setting.

As a Senior Nursery Manager, you’ll be responsible for leading the team, managing daily operations, and ensuring the highest standard of care and education. You’ll also work closely with parents and carers, oversee budgets, and ensure the nursery is Ofsted‑ready.

About the Nursery

Tops Poole Nursery is a 132 place Day Nursery & Pre‑School situated in Poole. The nursery runs several extra‑curricular activities including before and after school clubs, cooking school, Boogie Mites, yoga, tooth brushing, football fun and much more!

Why You’ll Love Working with Us

At Tops Day Nurseries, we believe in rewarding our team for their hard work and dedication. Here are some of the fantastic benefits you’ll enjoy as part of our family.

• £3000 Welcome Bonus to kick‑start your journey with us
• Relocation support of up to £3,000 (T&Cs apply) ** Welcome Bonus and Relocation packages are not cumulative
• Up to 60% childcare discount at Tops Day Nurseries
• Exclusive discounts & rewards via Blue Light Card and Each Person platform (gyms, cinema, shopping, travel & many more)
• Health & wellbeing support- NHS prescriptions, optical care & dental treatment
• A generous holiday allowance- including your birthday off & a wellbeing day

As well as many more exciting benefits! You can view the full list on our page or Careers website!

What does the Senior Nursery Manager role involve?

• Lead the daily running of the nursery, creating a safe, inspiring, and nurturing environment for children.
• Design & deliver high‑quality early years education and childcare experiences that spark curiosity, confidence, and joy.
• Build strong partnerships with parents, carers, and staff through clear communication and a positive, supportive approach.
• Plan and deliver a vibrant calendar of events and activities that enrich children’s development and celebrate their achievements.
• Recruit, develop, and support staff to maintain a motivated, high‑performing team.
• Manage nursery budgets, enrolments, and parent enquiries with professionalism and efficiency.
• Adhering to Ofsted complaints inspections and implementation of recommendations, ensuring we maintain quality standards.
• Promote the nursery through marketing initiatives and outstanding customer care.
• Maintain facilities, equipment, and resources to the highest standards of safety and effectiveness.

Key Requirements

• A minimum Level 3 Early Years qualification
• Previous experience as a Nursery Manager or in a senior childcare role.
• Strong knowledge of EYFS safeguarding procedures & Ofsted standards.
• Excellent communication, organisational & leadership skills
• A creative and confident approach to education and childcare.

Important Safeguarding Information

Because this role involves regulated activity with children, all candidates must:

• Hold (or be willing to obtain) an enhanced DBS check registered on the Update Service. If you don’t yet have one, you’ll need to cover the cost.
• Be eligible to work in regulated roles- not on the Children’s Barred List.
• Successfully complete background and reference checks.

At Tops Day Nurseries, we are an equal opportunities employer, committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected.

Apply Now
Excited to make a difference? Take the next step in your career and join Tops Day Nurseries