Nursery Manager

Busy Bees Nurseries; Bicester; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading nursery group in Bicester is seeking a passionate Nursery Manager to deliver high standards of childcare and early education. The ideal candidate will have a Level 3 childcare qualification, at least 2 years of experience leading a team, and skills in leadership and communication. The role includes financial oversight, quality improvement, and community engagement. Competitive salary of up to £50,000 and extensive benefits including bonuses, holidays, and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

Up to 25% annual salary bonus

Ongoing professional development

Hive benefits and wellbeing hub

Up to 33 days holiday per year

Birthday off

Significant childcare discount

Enhanced family leave

Employee Assistance Programme

Cycle to Work scheme

Discounted Private Medical Insurance

Travel opportunities and Talent Exchange participation

Qualifications

• Level 3 childcare qualification and at least 2 years of experience leading a team in an early years setting.
• Experience as a Nursery Manager or Assistant Nursery Manager.
• A strong focus on delivering high-quality childcare and early education.

Responsibilities

• Drive excellence and motivate your team.
• Enhance educational programs and operational processes.
• Ensure a safe and secure environment, meeting all regulations.
• Manage budgets and resources effectively.
• Build strong relationships with parents, staff, and the community.
• Foster team growth to provide exceptional care.

Skills

Leadership

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Quality improvement

Education

NNEB, BTEC Nat Dip, CACHE Dip in Childcare, or NVQ Level 3

Job description

Overview

Busy Bees is the UK's leading nursery group with nearly 400 nurseries across the UK (and more globally). We inspire children and support a workplace where everyone is heard, supported, and celebrated. This role is for a passionate and ambitious Nursery Manager whose primary goal is to deliver the highest standards of childcare and early years education.

Responsibilities

• Lead & Inspire: Drive excellence and motivate your team.
• Quality Improvement: Enhance educational programs and operational processes.
• Compliance: Ensure a safe and secure environment, meeting all regulations.
• Financial Oversight: Manage budgets and resources effectively.
• Engagement: Build strong relationships with parents, staff, and the community.
• Professional Development: Foster team growth to provide exceptional care.

With Level 3 childcare qualification and 2+ years of leading a team in an early years setting, you will bring your passion, EYFS knowledge, and strong leadership to our team.

Qualifications and Experience

• NNEB, BTEC Nat Dip, CACHE Dip in Childcare, or NVQ Level 3.
• Experience as a Nursery Manager or Assistant Nursery Manager.
• Strong leadership, organisational, and communication skills.
• A focus on delivering high-quality childcare and early education.

About Busy Bees and nascent nursery

At Busy Bees, we don’t just care for children—we inspire them! We’re proud to be the UK’s leading nursery group and offer a buzzing, supportive environment where ideas matter. Our Bee Curious curriculum is exclusive to Busy Bees, and there are opportunities to get involved in charitable events with BBC Children in Need. There are plenty of chances to grow your career with us.

About Our Nursery – Bicester Kingsmere: rated Good by Ofsted, our 110-place nursery focuses on fun, learning, and a strong community spirit. Every day is a new adventure for the children.

Benefits

• Up to 25% annual salary bonus
• Salary up to £50,000 per annum DOE
• Ongoing professional development and career progression
• Hive benefits and wellbeing hub with discounts across retailers
• Up to 33 days holiday per year (including bank holidays)
• Your birthday off — it’s our gift to you!
• Significant childcare discount
• Enhanced family leave and return-to-work bonus
• Menopause support through Peppy
• Financial support through Salary Finance
• Employee Assistance Programme and Mental Health First Aiders
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Access to pension through Cushon
• Discounted Private Medical Insurance (PMI)
• Opportunities to travel to other countries and participate in Talent Exchange