Day Nursery Manager

Odin Recruitment Group; Watford; On-site; GBP 37,800 - 46,200; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Pension scheme

Training & development

Clear progression opportunities

Holiday entitlement

Discounted childcare

Job summary

Our client, a well-established early years setting in Watford, is seeking an experienced Nursery Manager to lead the team and oversee daily operations. The role focuses on high-quality early years education, safeguarding, and driving team development in a nurturing environment.

The ideal candidate will have Level 3 Early Years qualification (or above), and prior experience as Nursery Manager or Deputy Manager with a solid understanding of EYFS and Ofsted requirements.

Qualifications

• Level 3 Early Years qualification (or above) required.
• Experience as Nursery Manager or Deputy Manager ready to step up.
• Strong understanding of EYFS, safeguarding and Ofsted requirements.
• Excellent communication skills and organised, professional approach.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the nursery in line with EYFS, safeguarding and regulatory requirements
• Inspire, support and develop a committed staff team
• Ensure high standards of care, learning and development across all rooms
• Manage staffing, ratios, rotas and performance
• Build strong relationships with parents, carers and external professionals
• Oversee compliance, policies, audits and inspections
• Manage budgets, occupancy and operational efficiency

Skills

People management

Communication

Organised

Education

Level 3 Early Years qualification

Job description

Overview

Location: Watford
Salary: Up to £42,000
Hours: Full-time, permanent

Our client, a well-established early years setting, is seeking an experienced and motivated Nursery Manager to lead their team and oversee the day-to-day running of the nursery. This is an exciting opportunity for a confident leader who is passionate about high-quality early years education, team development, and creating a nurturing, safe environment where children can thrive.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the nursery in line with EYFS, safeguarding and regulatory requirements
• Inspire, support and develop a committed staff team
• Ensure high standards of care, learning and development across all rooms
• Manage staffing, ratios, rotas and performance
• Build strong relationships with parents, carers and external professionals
• Oversee compliance, policies, audits and inspections
• Manage budgets, occupancy and operational efficiency

The Ideal Candidate

• Holds a Level 3 Early Years qualification (or above)
• Previous experience as a Nursery Manager or Deputy Manager ready to step up
• Strong understanding of EYFS, safeguarding and Ofsted requirements
• Confident people manager with excellent communication skills
• Organised, professional and solution-focused
• Passionate about child development and quality practice

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Supportive ownership and senior leadership
• Ongoing training and professional development
• Clear progression opportunities
• Generous holiday entitlement
• Company pension scheme
• Discounted childcare (where applicable)

If you are an experienced early years professional looking for your next leadership role, or a Deputy Manager ready to take the next step, we would be delighted to hear from you