Nursery Manager

VN Appointments; Essex; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension scheme

Generous annual leave entitlement

Ongoing professional development

Job summary

VN Appointments in Colchester is seeking a Nursery Manager for a well-established nursery. You will lead a passionate team, drive high standards of care and education, and support children's development.

The role requires EYFS/Ofsted knowledge, strong leadership, and a hands-on approach. Competitive salary 30,000-45,000 per annum; permanent full-time with benefits and progression.

Qualifications

• Experience as Nursery Manager, Deputy Manager or Senior Nursery Leader.
• Level 3 minimum Early Years qualification; Level 5+ desirable.
• Strong knowledge of EYFS and Ofsted requirements.
• Proven leadership and team management experience.
• Excellent communication and organisational skills.
• DBS update service or willingness to obtain.

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day nursery operations and maintain high care/education standards.
• Oversee staff management, development and performance.
• Ensure EYFS, Ofsted, safeguarding, health & safety compliance.
• Engage with parents, carers and external agencies.
• Oversee occupancy, admissions, and growth initiatives.
• Monitor budgets, staffing ratios and targets.
• Prepare for Ofsted inspections.
• Foster a positive, inclusive environment.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organisational skills

Education

Level 3 Early Years qualification

Level 5+ desirable

Job description

Nursery Manager

Location: Colchester, Essex

Salary: 30,000 - 45,000 per annum (depending on experience)

Contract: Permanent, Full-Time

Start Date: ASAP

Nursery Manager - Colchester

VNA Education is delighted to be recruiting on behalf of a well-established and nurturing nursery in Colchester for an experienced and passionate Nursery Manager.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a dedicated early years professional to lead a committed team, drive high standards of care and education, and make a lasting impact on children's development during their formative years.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the day-to-day operations of the nursery, ensuring the highest standards of care, safeguarding, and education.
• Manage, motivate, and develop nursery staff through effective leadership and performance management.
• Ensure full compliance with EYFS, Ofsted, safeguarding, health & safety, and all relevant statutory requirements.
• Maintain strong partnerships with parents, carers, and external agencies.
• Oversee occupancy levels, admissions, and nursery growth initiatives.
• Monitor budgets, staffing ratios, and operational targets.
• Prepare for and manage Ofsted inspections.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and stimulating environment for children, families, and staff.

Requirements

• Previous experience as a Nursery Manager, Deputy Nursery Manager, or Senior Nursery Leader.
• Relevant Early Years qualification (Level 3 minimum, Level 5 or above desirable).
• Strong working knowledge of the EYFS Framework and Ofsted requirements.
• Proven leadership and team management experience.
• Excellent communication and organisational skills.
• Enhanced DBS on the Update Service or willingness to obtain one.
• A genuine passion for early years education and child development.

Benefits

• Competitive salary of 30,000 - 45,000 per annum.
• Permanent, full-time position.
• Supportive and welcoming working environment.
• Ongoing professional development and training.
• Career progression opportunities.
• Pension scheme.
• Generous annual leave entitlement.

If you are an ambitious early years professional looking to take the next step in your management career, we would love to hear from you.