Nursery Manager

Busy Bees; Preston; Hybrid; GBP 36,000 - 44,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Up to 25% annual salary bonus

Up to 33 days holiday inclusive ofbank

Your birthday off

50% Childcare discount

Full central support (HR, Recruitment,

Access to high-quality training and领导

Clear progression pathways into area管理

Breve cycle to work scheme

Private Medical insurance

Global Talent exchange programme

Job summary

Busy Bees Preston Hospital is seeking an experienced Nursery Manager to lead and inspire the team, shaping the learning environment for children and families. You will ensure EYFS compliance, drive high-quality teaching, and partner with the Regional teams to meet quality and occupancy goals.

You will manage staffing, support professional growth, and foster a child-centred culture across the nursery, contributing to Busy Bees’ national standards.

Qualifications

• Experience leading an early years setting with strong governance and regulatory awareness.
• Proven ability to drive high-quality childcare and improve outcomes for children.
• Track record of developing teams and maintaining high standards in EYFS.

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 closely with regional leadership to deliver quality and occupancy targets.

Skills

Leadership

EYFS knowledge

Ofsted knowledge

Staff development

Child-centred approach

Education

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

Job description

Join Our Team at Busy Bees Preston Hospital – Leading Nursery Group in the UK!

Salary £40,000 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

Our nursery provides a variety of engaging spaces where children can follow their interests, from cosy reading corners and creative craft activities to imaginative role play. We offer a balance of child-led and structured experiences, supporting children as they develop important skills in literacy, numeracy, art and design.

Located in the grounds of Preston Hospital, our nursery is conveniently situated just off the A6, with easy access to the M6 and M55. We’re also well connected by public transport, with Preston train station just under four miles away and local bus routes including the 43, 45, 49 and 125 serving the area.

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 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

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.