Nursery Manager

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

Job summary

A childcare organization in Cuckfield is seeking a dedicated Nursery Manager to lead nursery development and operations. This full-time, permanent position emphasizes creating a nurturing environment and ensuring compliance with relevant standards. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in similar roles, a Level 3 qualification in Childcare, and a passion for early years education. This role offers a salary between £40,000 and £45,000 per year along with various benefits including childcare support and a company pension.

Benefits

Childcare

Company events

Company pension

Employee discount

Free parking

Health & wellbeing programme

On-site parking

Sick pay

Store discount

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Nursery Manager in an Ofsted-registered setting.
• Experience managing large nurseries.
• Confident leader capable of building and leading an exceptional team.

Responsibilities

• Lead full nursery setup process, including registration, recruitment, and resourcing.
• Ensure the nursery meets and exceeds all EYFS, Ofsted and safeguarding requirements.
• Drive occupancy and maintain excellent relationships with families.

Skills

Leadership

Operational management

Team motivation

Communication

Organizational skills

Education

Minimum Level 3 qualification in Childcare

Job description

We are seeking a Nursery Manager to work full time year‑round.

Role Overview

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

Key Responsibilities

• Lead 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 ideal
• Minimum Level 3 qualification in Childcare
• Strong knowledge of EYFS, Ofsted frameworks, and safeguarding
• Confident leader capable of building and leading an exceptional team
• Excellent organisational, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Passion for early years education and a child‑centred approach to leadership

Benefits

• Childcare
• Company events
• Company pension
• Employee discount
• Free parking
• Health & wellbeing programme
• On‑site parking
• Sick pay
• Store discount

Job Details

Job Types: Full‑time, Permanent

Pay: £40,000.00–£45,000.00 per year

Schedule: Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person

Driving Licence (preferred)