Lead Teacher & Manager

Tiny Wilds; Axtown; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A vibrant nursery and alternative education setting is seeking a Level 6 Qualified Setting Manager to lead a passionate team and oversee curriculum planning. The role involves leading educational activities, mentoring staff, ensuring compliance with regulations, and engaging with the community. The ideal candidate will have experience in leadership, a strong understanding of early education standards, and a relevant qualification. The position is based in Axtown, offering a supportive work environment and comprehensive benefits.

Benefits

Health & Wellness Package

Aviva Pension Scheme

28 days holiday

Cycle to Work Scheme

Perkbox Membership

Company Events & Team Activities

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a leadership or management role within an early years or primary education setting.
• Strong understanding of the primary curriculum for ages 5–8.
• Current, clear Advanced DBS check.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire a small, passionate team of four staff.
• Ensure the highest standards of care, learning and safeguarding.
• Oversee daily operations, curriculum planning and compliance with EYFS and Ofsted requirements.
• Plan nature-based and indoor lessons and develop curriculum.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Understanding of EYFS

Safeguarding knowledge

Fluent in English

Education

Level 6 in Early Years or childcare

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

Job description

Overview

Our client offers a Level 6 Qualified Setting Manager role within an outdoor‑based provision that combines a vibrant nursery with an alternative education setting on an organic smallholding on the edge of Dartmoor. The setting values sustainable, ethical practices and encourages children to respect and connect with their natural surroundings.

Working Pattern

Monday to Thursday or Friday 8:30‑8:30 am, in Devon Local Authority school term time.

Location

Sampford Spiney, 4 miles from Tavistock, on a river valley edge of Dartmoor.

Role

The Setting Manager leads and teaches alongside two assistants, while the primary specialist leads the 5‑year‑old provision. The role blends teaching and leadership, with three days directly working with children and one day focused on managing the wider setting across all groups.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire a small, passionate team of four staff, including one completing a Level 3 qualification under your supervision.
• Ensure the highest standards of care, learning and safeguarding.
• Oversee daily operations, curriculum planning and compliance with EYFS and Ofsted requirements.
• Model excellent practice and support staff development through regular in‑class mentoring.
• Plan nature‑based and indoor lessons and develop curriculum across all three groups, ensuring a seamless, consistent approach.
• Build positive relationships with families, professionals and the wider community.
• Liaise with local schools for flexi‑school children.
• Organise regular celebrations and events with families and the community.
• Administrate the enrollment process for new children and session changes for existing children.
• Resourcing and supplying all groups within a set budget.
• Manage and claim funding for eligible children through the DCC provider portal.
• Work alongside a larger team of staff including the owner, communicating clearly.
• Undertake other reasonable duties of a similar level as required.

Essential Experience & Qualifications

• Level 6 in Early Years or childcare.
• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or experience in primary education (beneficial).
• Proven experience in a leadership or management role within an early years or primary education setting.
• Experience leading a team, including mentoring or supervising staff.
• Strong understanding of EYFS and primary curriculum for ages 5–8.
• Knowledge of safeguarding legislation, Ofsted requirements, and health & safety in educational settings.
• Current, clear Advanced DBS check.
• Fluent in English.
• Driving with full licence.

Desirable Experience

• Experience in alternative education settings.
• Familiarity with nature‑based, creative, or holistic learning approaches.
• Knowledge of SEN.

Benefits

• Health & Wellness Package with BUPA Wellbeing Package and 24/7 support.
• Aviva Pension Scheme.
• 28 days holiday, inclusive of bank holidays.
• Cycle to Work Scheme.
• Perkbox Membership.
• Company Events & Team Activities.

Application Process

Please send your CV and covering letter. For this role, you would like to apply for this role, please send us your CV and covering letter.

Deadline

December 22nd 2025