Nursery Manager

Amor Hire Recruitment; Manchester; On-site; GBP 37,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is seeking a dedicated Nursery Manager to lead an early years setting in Manchester. You will oversee daily operations, manage staff, and ensure high standards of care and compliance. The role requires a Level 3 qualification in Childcare and Education, alongside leadership experience in a nursery environment. The salary range is £37,000 to £45,000 per year with opportunities for bonuses and professional development.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Performance-related bonuses

Opportunities for training and career progression

Qualifications

• At least 2 years in a managerial or deputy manager role within an early years setting.
• 3 years Day nursery manager experience.
• Paediatric First Aid and DSL training.

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day operations of the nursery.
• Manage staff performance and conduct appraisals.
• Ensure compliance with Ofsted standards.

Skills

Organisational skills

Communication skills

Leadership skills

Education

Minimum Level 3 in Childcare and Education

Level 5 qualification or higher in Early Years Leadership

Job description

Job Specification

Nursery Manager

Location

Manchester, M16

Key Role Summary

We are seeking an experienced and dedicated Nursery Manager to lead a settled and vibrant early years setting. You will be responsible for the overall management of the nursery, ensuring the highest standards of care, education, safety, and compliance are consistently maintained in line with Ofsted requirements and the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework.

Core Responsibilities

Leadership & Management: Provide effective leadership, manage day-to-day operations, and oversee staff performance (supervision, appraisals, training).

Safeguarding: Take full responsibility for child protection and safeguarding as or supporting the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL). Prioritise children's health, safety, and wellbeing.

Quality & Compliance: Consistently meet and exceed Ofsted standards, lead the continuous development of the EYFS curriculum, and maintain accurate records.

Communication: Build and maintain strong partnerships with parents, carers, and external agencies (e.g., Health Visitors, Social Workers).

Recruitment & HR: Lead safer recruitment, manage staff rotas / absences, and support team morale and professional development.

Operational & Financial: Oversee administrative functions, manage budgets, monitor occupancy, and identify areas for growth / efficiency.

Qualifications

Minimum Level 3 in Childcare and Education (or equivalent).

Level 5 qualification or higher in Early Years Leadership / Management.

Experience

At least 2 years in a managerial or deputy manager role within an early years setting. 3 years Day nursery manager experience.

Experience managing a large nursery (50+ places).

Knowledge

Strong, current knowledge of Ofsted, EYFS, and safeguarding legislation. Proven experience working with external agencies.

Paediatric First Aid and DSL training.

Skills

Excellent organisational, communication, and leadership skills. Sound understanding of health and safety and safer recruitment.

Personal Attributes

Warm, approachable, and confident leader with a child-centred ethos.

Highly motivated, reliable, and able to work well under pressure.

Exceptional interpersonal and team-building skills.

Committed to professional development.

Compensation & Benefits

Pay: £37,000.00 - £45,000.00 per year

Benefits: Competitive salary with performance-related bonuses, supportive management, and opportunities for ongoing training and career progression.

Job type: Full-time, Permanent