Nursery Manager

Busy Bees Nurseries; Grays; On-site; GBP 41,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free lunch

Free parking

Annual bonus up to 25%

Birthday day off

Staff childcare discount 50%

Career progression

Job summary

Busy Bees is seeking a Nursery Manager for the Chafford Hundred setting in Grays to lead day-to-day operations and drive high-quality early education for 85 children.

You will bring Level 3 childcare qualification, at least two years of leadership in early years, and a passion for EYFS. Enjoy a supportive network, substantial bonus potential up to 25%, and extensive development opportunities within a national nursery group.

Qualifications

• Level 3 childcare qualification is required.
• At least two years in a leadership role in an early years setting.
• Strong EYFS knowledge and Ofsted standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire the nursery team to deliver high-quality care.
• Drive quality improvement across educational programmes and operations.
• Ensure compliance with safeguarding and regulatory requirements.
• Oversee budgets and resource planning.
• Engage with parents and the local community.
• Foster professional development and progression for staff.

Skills

Leadership

EYFS knowledge

Staff development

Communication

Child safety

Regulatory compliance

Education

Level 3 childcare qualification

Job description

Join Our Team at Busy Bees Chafford Hundred Howard Road – Leading Nursery Group in the UK!

Salary: Up to £45,000 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 Busy Bees

Busy Bees is the UK’s leading early years providers, with nurseries dedicated to giving children the very best start in life through safe, caring, and high-quality early education.

What this means for you is the chance to lead your nursery with real confidence, backed by a large, supportive organisation that helps you focus on what you do best. You’ll benefit from strong operational support, ongoing training, and clear progression opportunities to grow your career.

You’ll also have the freedom to shape your setting in a way that reflects your leadership style and makes a real difference in your local community. If you’re a passionate early years professional ready for your next step, this is your opportunity to grow with us.

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

• The nursery is Ofsted-rated Good.
• The nursery has a capacity of 85 children.
• Located beneath Bannatyne’s gym, providing a unique and vibrant environment.
• Conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from Chafford Hundred C2C station.
• A 5-minute walk from the Number 33 bus stop, making the nursery easily accessible by public transport.
• Staff benefit from free lunch during their working day.
• Free parking is available for staff.
• Offers a supportive working environment with opportunities to develop and progress a career in early childhood education.

About The Benefits

• Up to 25% annual salary bonus
• Up to 33 days holiday inlclusive 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 practise in early years with our Global Talent exchange programme.

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

We are looking for someone who brings:

• 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.