Nursery Manager

About Early Years Ltd.; Preston; Hybrid; GBP 36,000 - 44,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Up to 25% annual bonus

Up to 33 days holiday incl. bank

Birthday off

Childcare discount 50%

Central support (HR, Recruitment, QA)

Leadership development & training

Clear progression into area management

Family leave & return-to-work bonus

Wellbeing support & EAP

Cycle to work & pension

Private medical insurance (discounted)

Global Talent exchange programme

Job summary

Busy Bees Preston Hospital is seeking an experienced Nursery Manager to lead and shape the learning environment for children and families. You will guide the team, ensure EYFS and safeguarding compliance, and drive improvements across teaching and outcomes within a trusted national nursery group.

The role offers a competitive salary of £40,000 with an annual bonus, plus extensive benefits and leadership development opportunities.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Nursery Manager or Deputy Manager in a high-quality setting.
• Strong leadership skills with ability to inspire and develop teams.
• Excellent knowledge of EYFS and Ofsted requirements.

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

Nursery leadership

EYFS knowledge

Ofsted readiness

Team development

Community relationships

Education

NNEB / NVQ Level 3 / CACHE Dip

Job description

Role Overview:

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.

Role Responsibilities:

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

Required Qualifications:

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.