Nursery Manager

Happy Nurses; Bulwell; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A supporting childcare organization in England is seeking an experienced Nursery Manager to lead a new opening. The role includes full nursery setup, maintaining high educational standards, and managing a dedicated team. A proven background in managing nurseries, particularly in an Ofsted-registered environment, is essential. Additionally, excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills are required to build an outstanding nursery team. Competitive salary and support offered, making this a great opportunity for career progression.

Benefits

Competitive salary package

Performance-related bonuses

Childcare discounts

Wellbeing support

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Nursery Manager in an Ofsted-registered setting.
• Experience managing large nurseries.
• Strong knowledge of the EYFS, Ofsted frameworks, and safeguarding.

Responsibilities

• Lead the full nursery setup process including registration and recruitment.
• Ensure nursery meets all EYFS and Ofsted requirements.
• Manage and motivate a high-performing team.
• Drive occupancy and maintain relationships with families.
• Manage budgets and operational aspects.

Skills

Leadership

Organizational skills

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Knowledge of EYFS

Education

Minimum Level 3 qualification in Childcare

Job description

We are seeking a nursery manager to work full time for 52 weeks per year all year round.

The Role

As Nursery Manager, you will be responsible for the full leadership, development, and day‑to‑day management of the nursery, from pre‑opening stages through to ongoing operations. Your focus will be on delivering exceptional care and education, building a strong and happy team, and ensuring the nursery thrives both in quality and performance.

Why This Nursery Will Stand Out

• A beautifully designed extensive nature garden and outdoor play areas
• A children’s kitchen for hands‑on learning experiences
• A purpose‑built sensory room and atelier to support curiosity and creativity
• A dedicated staff training and wellbeing room for professional development and colleague care

You’ll be helping to bring this vision to life — with full operational support behind you.

You’ll Be Supported By

• A dedicated Operations Manager
• Our Accounts & Finance Team
• An experienced Marketing & Admissions Team
• Our Maintenance and Facilities Support
• Senior Leadership who are hands‑on and accessible

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the full nursery setup process, including registration, recruitment, and resourcing
• Ensure the nursery meets and exceeds all EYFS, Ofsted and safeguarding requirements
• Recruit, manage, and motivate a high‑performing team
• Drive occupancy and maintain excellent relationships with families
• Ensure outstanding standards of care, teaching, and learning across the setting
• Manage budgets, staffing, compliance, and all operational aspects

Essential Requirements

• Proven experience as a Nursery Manager in an Ofsted‑registered setting
• Experience managing large nurseries
• Previous Area Manager experience or Senior Manager roles in larger settings would be ideal
• Minimum Level 3 qualification in Childcare
• Strong knowledge of the EYFS, Ofsted frameworks, and safeguarding
• A confident leader with the ability to build and lead an exceptional team
• Excellent organisational, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Passion for early years education and a child‑centred approach to leadership

What We Offer

• Competitive salary package with performance‑related bonuses
• Full support with the nursery’s pre‑opening setup with a strong head office team
• Opportunities for career progression within a growing nursery group
• Ongoing CPD and training
• Childcare discounts and staff wellbeing support
• A friendly, family‑run company culture that values and supports its leaders

Sound Like Your Kind of Role?

This is a rare opportunity to take the lead on a high‑profile new opening with everything in place to support your success. If you’re an experienced Nursery Manager looking for an exciting new challenge with a strong team behind you — we’d love to hear from you.

Job Types: Full‑time, Permanent

Pay: £40,000.00-£45,000.00 per year

Please apply using your CV and we will aim to respond within 3 working days.

Schedule: Monday to Friday

Driving Licence (preferred)