Area Manager

Ark Start; London; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A childcare organization is seeking an experienced Area Manager to oversee nurseries across London. The role involves driving improvement, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, and enhancing early years education quality. The ideal candidate will have strong leadership skills, expertise in safeguarding, and a commitment to professional development of staff. This permanent position offers a full-time working pattern.

Qualifications

• Experience in leadership positions within early years education.
• Strong understanding of safeguarding policies and practices.
• Ability to coach and develop staff effectively.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop one area of expertise, driving improvement.
• Ensure nurseries are Ofsted-ready and comply with standards.
• Coach and mentor nursery managers to foster professional growth.

Skills

Leadership

Operational Management

Coaching and Mentoring

Safeguarding Expertise

Quality Assurance

Job description

About The Role
Area Manager – Ark Start

Reporting to: Director of Early Years

Location: Various locations across London

Contract: Permanent

Working Pattern: Full-time

Interviews: Interviews will be arranged as suitable candidates are identified

Salary: Competitive


About the role:
The area manager role at Ark Start is a leadership position focused on fostering excellence across a group of nurseries. This individual will play a crucial role in driving continuous improvement, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and enhancing the quality of early years education. Leading one specialised area of expertise—such as safeguarding or inclusion —the area manager will shape a positive culture that embodies Ark Start’s values. They will build strong relationships with nursery managers, supporting their professional growth and tailoring Ark Start’s approach to meet the unique needs of each nursery. Responsible for both operational excellence and quality assurance, this role includes overseeing Ofsted readiness, leading safeguarding as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), and acting as the Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCo) to ensure inclusive practices. Additionally, the area manager will coach and develop staff and build partnerships within the community to drive the success of the nurseries.



Key Responsibilities:

Operational Leadership
Lead and develop one area of expertise (e.g. Inclusion, Safeguarding, Family Programme), driving continuous improvement across your region
Establish a strong and positive culture, setting consistent expectations and embodying Ark Start’s values in all interactions

Operational Excellence
Line manage a region of nurseries, building a trusting relationship with nursery managers to support their development and ensure continuous improvement
Tailor the Ark Start approach to suit the unique context and developmental needs of each nursery, ensuring flexibility and adaptability
Oversee the implementation of Ark Start and statutory policies, including safeguarding, health and safety, first aid, and risk assessments
Identify and address strengths and weaknesses within the nurseries, implementing plans for improvement where necessary

Quality Assurance
Ensure nurseries are Ofsted-ready, leading inspections and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards
Serve as the Designated Safeguarding Lead for the region, managing safeguarding cases and ensuring adherence to Ark Start’s safeguarding policy
Act as the Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCo) for the region, ensuring all necessary paperwork and provision are in place for children with additional needs
Oversee planning meetings and monitor curriculum implementation, supporting staff to deliver consistently excellent educational provision

Staff Development & Training
Coach and mentor nursery managers and staff, fostering a culture of professional growth and continuous learning
Support managers in identifying training needs and facilitating ongoing professional development for all staff members
Ensure effective deployment of staff, meeting the needs of each nursery while considering staff skills and strengths
Assist apprentices in achieving their qualifications and provide support throughout their development

Financial & HR Management
Meet financial targets for the nurseries in your region, monitoring budgets and resource allocation
Ensure compliance with HR policies and procedures, including recruitment, performance management, and employee relations
Identify staffing needs and gaps, working with the Headteacher of Ark Start, and wider team, to ensure effective workforce planning

Partnership & Community Engagement
Build strong relationships with partner schools, local authorities, and external agencies to support the development and success of Ark Start nurseries
Lead the implementation and continuous development of the family programme, enhancing parent engagement and support