Nursery Manager

Willingcare; Woking; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

Willingcare is seeking an experienced Nursery Manager to lead day-to-day operations while preserving a warm, family‑run feel. You’ll guide the team, uphold EYFS standards, and ensure safeguarding and Ofsted requirements are met, keeping children at the heart of all decisions.

The role demands strong leadership, excellent communication with families and colleagues, and a nurturing, child‑centred approach. Join a welcoming environment that supports development and confidence in every child.

Qualifications

• A full and relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification or above – essential.
• Previous Nursery Manager experience is required.
• Strong knowledge of the EYFS, safeguarding and Ofsted requirements.
• Proven experience leading, motivating and developing an Early Years team.
• A nurturing, child-centred leadership style and excellent communication.
• Strong organisational and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Take responsibility for the smooth day-to-day running of the setting
• Lead, support and develop the nursery team
• Maintain high standards of care and education in line with the EYFS
• Create a positive environment where children and practitioners feel valued and supported
• Oversee safeguarding, compliance, staffing and operational standards
• Build strong and trusting relationships with families
• Support continuous improvement across the nursery
• Ensure children's individual needs and interests remain central to everyday practice
• Maintain the warm, family-run culture that makes the nursery feel personal and welcoming

Skills

EYFS knowledge

Safeguarding & Ofsted

Leadership & team development

Communication with families

Education

Level 3 Early Years qualification (or above)

Job description

Job Description

Nursery Manager

Up to £42,000 per year

This welcoming, family-run nursery has created a warm and nurturing environment where children are encouraged to grow in confidence, become more independent and develop the skills that will support them throughout their next stages.

We’re looking for an experienced Nursery Manager who can bring strong leadership while keeping that close‑knit, personal feel at the heart of the nursery. You’ll lead the day‑to‑day running of the setting, support your team to develop and ensure every child receives consistently high‑quality Early Years experiences.

What We’re Looking For

• A full and relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification or above – essential
• Previous Nursery Manager experience
• Strong knowledge of the EYFS, safeguarding and Ofsted requirements
• Proven experience leading, motivating and developing an Early Years team
• A nurturing and child‑centred approach to leadership
• Strong organisational and problem‑solving skills
• Excellent communication with children, families and colleagues
• A passion for supporting confidence, independence and individual development

Leading the Nursery

• Take responsibility for the smooth day‑to‑day running of the setting
• Lead, support and develop the nursery team
• Maintain high standards of care and education in line with the EYFS
• Create a positive environment where children and practitioners feel valued and supported
• Oversee safeguarding, compliance, staffing and operational standards
• Build strong and trusting relationships with families
• Support continuous improvement across the nursery
• Ensure children's individual needs and interests remain central to everyday practice
• Maintain the warm, family-run culture that makes the nursery feel personal and welcoming

All appointments are subject to safer recruitment requirements, including an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references, and verification of the right to work in the UK, in line with safeguarding responsibilities.

Reference: WILL258789/MW

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