Nursery Manager

Zero2Five Early Years Recruitment; Worthing; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An early years recruitment agency seeks an experienced Nursery Manager for a private nursery near Worthing. The Nursery Manager will lead a team, ensure excellence in childcare education, oversee operations, and foster partnerships with parents. Candidates should have a Level 3 qualification in Early Years, management experience, and strong leadership skills. A competitive salary and enhanced holiday entitlement are offered, along with opportunities for professional development.

Benefits

Very Competitive Salary

Enhanced holiday entitlement

Free Parking

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years' experience in a management role within an early years setting.
• Thorough knowledge of the EYFS and safeguarding legislation.
• Current Paediatric First Aid certificate and DSL training or willingness to complete.

Responsibilities

• Lead and motivate a team of early years practitioners.
• Manage daily operations of the nursery.
• Ensure a safe and happy environment for children.
• Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).
• Oversee recruitment and staff development.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Team Management

Child Protection Knowledge

Education

Level 3 qualification in Early Years

Level 5 or above preferred

Job description

Overview

Zero2Five are proud to be working with a quality private nursery who are looking to employ an experienced Nursery Manager for their 40 place setting near Worthing, West Sussex. The successful candidate will lead the setting and drive excellence in childcare and education, and oversee the smooth running of the nursery.

Key Responsibilities

• Leading and motivating a team of early years practitioners to deliver outstanding care and education in line with the EYFS framework.
• Managing daily operations, including staff deployment, rotas, and maintaining child-to-staff ratios at all times.
• Ensuring a safe, secure, and happy environment where children can grow, develop, and reach their full potential.
• Developing strong partnerships with parents and carers through regular communication, progress updates, and involvement in the life of the nursery.
• Acting as Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), with responsibility for promoting and upholding the highest standards of child protection and welfare.
• Ensuring compliance with Ofsted regulations, health & safety legislation, and internal policies.
• Overseeing recruitment, inductions, supervisions, appraisals, and professional development of staff.
• Managing nursery occupancy, waiting lists, and ensuring fee income is maximised through effective marketing and administration.
• Monitoring budgets, expenses and contributing to the financial sustainability of the nursery.

Essential Criteria

• A minimum Level 3 qualification in Early Years (Level 5 or above preferred).
• At least 2 years' experience in a management role within an early years setting.
• A thorough knowledge of the EYFS, safeguarding legislation, Ofsted inspection frameworks, nursery operations, and best practice in early years education.
• Strong leadership and organisational skills, with the ability to inspire, support and develop a team.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a warm and professional approach to working with children, families, and colleagues.
• Experience managing nursery budgets, occupancy, and operational targets.
• A current Paediatric First Aid certificate and Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) training (or willingness to complete).

Benefits

• Very Competitive Salary
• Enhanced holiday entitlement
• Free Parking

If this sounds like the type of vacancy you feel you have been looking for, then apply today! Or email your most up to date CV to (url removed).