Nursery Manager

Busy Bees Nurseries; Bicester; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Up to 25% annual salary bonus

Up to 33 days holiday incl. bank

Birthday off

Childcare discount

Training and leadership development

Progression pathways

Family leave & return bonus

Employee assistance programme

Pension plan

Private Medical insurance

Global Talent exchange programme

Job summary

Busy Bees Bicester Kingsmere is seeking an experienced Nursery Manager to lead the day-to-day operations, ensuring high-quality education, safeguarding, and performance against standards. You will shape the team, culture, and practice with regional and central support.

The role requires Level 3 childcare qualification and proven leadership in early years, with opportunities for progression and international talent exchanges.

Qualifications

• Level 3 childcare qualification required.
• Two years of leadership experience in early years settings.
• Proven Nursery Manager or Deputy Manager track record.

Responsibilities

• Lead & Inspire: drive excellence and motivate your team.
• Quality Improvement: enhance educational programs and operations.
• Compliance: ensure a safe, compliant environment.
• Financial Oversight: manage budgets and resources.
• Engagement: build strong relationships with parents, staff and community.
• Professional Development: foster team growth and capability.

Skills

Leadership

EYFS knowledge

Ofsted knowledge

Staff development

Budget management

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Level 3 childcare qualification

NVQ/BTEC/CACHE Dip level 3 or equivalent

Job description

Nursery Manager - Busy Bees Bicester Kingsmere – Leading Nursery Group in the UK - Up to £50,000 per annum PLUS up to 25% annual salary bonus We are looking for an amazing Nursery Manager to ignite fun and learning for our children! With your Level 3 childcare qualification and two years of leadership in early years settings, we want you to bring your vibrant energy and EYFS expertise to our team. Exciting rewards await your passion for nurturing young minds!

About The Benefits

• Up to 25% annual salary bonus
• Up to 33 days holiday inclusive of bank holidays
• Your birthday off – our gift to you!
• 50% Childcare discount
• Full central support (HR, Recruitment, Quality, Safety etc)
• Access to high quality training and leadership development
• Clear progression pathways into area management and wider operational roles
• Enhanced family leave & return to work bonus
• Menopause & Mental health support, financial wellbeing tools, and a 24/7 Employee assistance programme
• Cycle to work scheme & easy access pension plan
• Discounted Private Medical insurance
• Opportunities to travel internationally and explore best practice in early years with our Global Talent exchange programme.

About The Role

This is a senior leadership role with full responsibility for the day-to-day running of the nursery, including quality of education, staff leadership, safeguarding, and operational performance. You will have the autonomy to shape your team, culture, and practice, supported by a dedicated regional and central support structure.

About Our Nursery

• Busy Bees Bicester Kingsmere is a purpose-built nursery that opened in 2018.
• Rated Good by Ofsted, providing a nurturing environment where children can thrive.
• Capacity for up to 110 children, supported by a dedicated and passionate team.
• Community-focused, collaborating with local artists to create beautiful pieces for the children, including special Christmas projects.
• Convenient location, close to two bus stops and a range of local amenities.
• Free staff parking, making commuting easy and convenient for our team.

Key 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.

About You

• Proven experience as a Nursery Manager or Deputy Manager in a high-quality setting
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and develop teams
• Excellent knowledge of EYFS and Ofsted requirements
• A track record of improving outcomes and maintaining high standards
• Confidence working both independently and as part of a wider leadership structure
• A child-centred approach with high expectations for quality

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.