Nursery Manager

Xen Day Nursery; London Borough of Croydon; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Xen Day Nursery is looking for an experienced Nursery Manager to lead the launch of a brand-new setting in London. You will shape culture, systems and standards, ensuring exceptional care, education and safeguarding from day one.

You will recruit and coach a junior team, drive onboarding, and establish strong parent partnerships while working closely with Directors on strategic growth. The role requires a Level 3 Early Years qualification (Level 5/6 desirable) and deep knowledge of EYFS and

Qualifications

• Must have Level 3 Early Years qualification (Level 5/6 desirable).
• Excellent knowledge of EYFS and Ofsted requirements.
• Experience as Nursery Manager or Deputy Manager ready to progress.

Responsibilities

• Recruit, induct and develop a brand-new staff team and drive staff development.
• Conduct regular supervisions, appraisals and performance management.
• Lead staff meetings, training sessions and reflective practice discussions.
• Provide strong, visible leadership and promote high standards of practice, safeguarding and education.
• Oversee day-to-day operations and ensure safe, welcoming, inclusive environment.
• Collaborate with Directors/Co-Founders on strategic planning and growth.
• Embed the nursery ethos and build strong partnerships with families and the local community.

Skills

Leadership

EYFS knowledge

Ofsted knowledge

Staff management

Education

Level 3 Early Years

Level 5/6 desirable

Job description

We are looking for a passionate and experienced leader to oversee the day-to-day management of our brand-new nursery setting. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the culture, systems and standards of the nursery from the very beginning while creating an environment where children, families and staff feel supported and valued.

The Nursery Manager will play a key role in establishing high standards of care, education, safeguarding and operational practice, while leading the team through the opening phase and supporting the nursery’s ongoing growth and development.

A minimum Level 3 Early Years qualification (Level 5/6 desirable)Experience as a Nursery Manager or an experienced Deputy Manager ready to progressExcellent knowledge of the EYFS and Ofsted requirementsStrong knowledge of the EYFS and Ofsted requirementsKey Responsibilities:

Key Responsibilities

• Recruit, induct and develop a brand-new staff team.
• Conduct regular supervisions, appraisals and performance management.
• Lead staff meetings, training sessions and reflective practice discussions.
• The Nursery Manager will: Provide strong, visible and professional leadership to the staff team.
• Promote high standards of practice, conduct, safeguarding, care and education.
• Oversee the day-to-day running of the nursery, ensuring smooth and effective operations.
• Maintain overall responsibility for the quality of care and education delivered to all children.
• Ensure the nursery is safe, welcoming, inclusive, well-organised and child-centred.
• Work closely with the Directors / Co-Founders to support strategic planning, nursery development and long-term growth.
• Develop and embed the nursery’s ethos, values and approach through The Xen Way.
• Support strong parent partnerships and positive relationships with families.
• Promote the nursery within the local community to support occupancy, reputation and sustainability.
• Represent the nursery confidently and professionally with external partners.
• Ensure all staff understand and follow nursery policies, procedures, safeguarding expectations and Ofsted requirements.