Nursery Manager

Busy Bees Nurseries; Milton Keynes; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Up to 25% annual salary bonus

Up to 33 days holiday incl. bank

Birthday off

50% childcare discount

Central HR/Recruitment support

Leadership development

Job summary

Busy Bees Nurseries seeks an experienced Nursery Manager to lead a high-quality setting in Milton Keynes. You will oversee the team, ensure EYFS compliance and safeguarding, and drive improvements in teaching and outcomes for children.

You will work with regional leadership to meet quality and occupancy targets, while building strong relationships with families and the local community. The role requires proven nursery leadership experience, strong people skills, and a child-centred approach to

Qualifications

• Experience leading a nursery or deputy/manager level is essential.
• Strong leadership, communication and organisational skills are expected.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the nursery team to deliver outstanding early years provision.
• Ensure full compliance with EYFS, safeguarding, and regulatory standards.
• Drive continuous improvement in teaching, learning and outcomes for children.
• Manage staffing, recruitment, performance and development.
• Build strong relationships with families and the local community.
• Work with regional leadership to achieve quality and occupancy targets.

Skills

Leadership

People management

Strategic planning

EYFS knowledge

Education

NNEB / BTEC Nat Dip / CACHE Dip / NVQ3

Job description

• Lead and manage the nursery team to deliver outstanding early years provision


• Ensure full compliance with EYFS, safeguarding, and regulatory standards


• Drive continuous improvement in teaching, learning, and outcomes for children


• Manage staffing, recruitment, performance, and development


• Build strong relationships with families and the local community


• Work closely with regional leadership to deliver quality and occupancy targets


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

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.

• 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.

Role Responsibilities