Nursery Manager

Busy Bees; Horsham; On-site; GBP 43,000 - 53,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus up to 25%

33 days holiday incl. bank holidays

Birthday off

50% Childcare discount

Central support (HR, Recruitment, QA)

Leadership development & training

Career progression pathways

Cycle to work scheme

Private medical insurance

Global Talent exchange programme

Job summary

Busy Bees Horsham is seeking an experienced Nursery Manager to lead the nursery, shape the early years experience for children and families, and drive excellence with the support of a national group.

You will manage a team, uphold EYFS standards and Ofsted expectations, and foster a child-centered environment that supports staff development and community engagement.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Nursery Manager or Deputy Manager in a high-quality setting.
• Strong leadership to inspire and develop teams.
• Excellent knowledge of EYFS and Ofsted requirements.
• Track record of improving outcomes and maintaining high standards.
• Child-centred approach with high expectations for quality.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire the team to deliver outstanding care.
• Drive quality improvement across educational programs and operations.
• Ensure compliance with regulations and safeguarding.
• Manage budgets and resources effectively.
• Engage with parents and the local community.
• Support professional development and progression.

Skills

Nursery Manager experience

Leadership skills

EYFS knowledge

Ofsted knowledge

Quality improvement

Independent work

Education

Nursery Manager experience / Deputy Manager

NNEB, BTEC Nat Dip, CACHE Dip in Childcare, or NVQ Level 3

Job description

Role Overview

Join Our Team at Busy Bees Horsham- Leading Nursery Group in the UK!

Salary Up to £48,000 per annum plus up to 25% annual salary bonus

Lead. Inspire. Grow. Make a difference.

Are you an experienced early years leader ready to take the next step in your career?

At Busy Bees, we believe great nurseries start with great leaders. As a Nursery Manager, you'll have the opportunity to lead your own team, shape the experience for children and families, and make a real difference every day with the support of a trusted national nursery group behind you.

Why Busy Bees?

• Grow your career. We're passionate about developing our people. From leadership training to clear progression pathways, we'll support you to build your skills and take your career wherever you want it to go.
• Lead and inspire your team. Create a positive, inclusive environment where your team can thrive. You'll coach, motivate and develop your colleagues, helping them reach their full potential.
• Make your mark. Every Busy Bees nursery is unique. We'll give you the autonomy to lead your nursery, bring your ideas to life and create an environment where children can learn, explore and flourish.
• Make a difference. You'll play a key role in giving children the best possible start in life, while building strong relationships with families and your local community.
• Never feel like you're doing it alone. You'll have the backing of your Nursery Support and Regional teams, giving you access to guidance, expertise and resources whenever you need them.

About Our Nursery

• Ofsted rating: Rated Good by Ofsted.
• Capacity: 130 children.
• Professional development: Opportunities to attend network meetings and training across West Sussex.
• Strong partnerships: Collaborative links with local nurseries and schools to enhance early years education.
• Convenient transport links: Just a 10-minute walk from Little Haven station, with a bus stop one minute away offering regular services.
• Free staff parking: Supporting a convenient and accessible working environment.

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 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.