Nursery Manager (12-Month Contract) with Progression

Willingcare; Basingstoke; On-site; GBP 43,000 - 53,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Childcare discount

Annual leave

Parental leave

Wellbeing programme

Training & development

Multi-site management exposure

Job summary

Willingcare is seeking an experienced Nursery Manager for a 12-month cover contract in Hampshire/Surrey. The role leads daily operations, staff performance, and safeguarding while positioning for a Floating Nursery Manager progression across our Hampshire and Surrey sites.

Ideal candidates hold Level 3 EYFS, have proven Nursery Manager experience, and demonstrate strong Ofsted readiness, EYFS knowledge, and a track record of high-quality care and team development.

Qualifications

• Level 3 Early Years qualification or above.
• Previous experience as Nursery Manager is essential.
• Proven ability to lead and manage an Early Years setting.
• Strong experience with Ofsted inspections and achieving Good/Outstanding outcomes.
• Excellent knowledge of the EYFS framework and best practice.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operation of the nursery.
• Provide visible leadership across the setting.
• Recruit, motivate, coach and develop the Early Years team.
• Maintain high standards of care, education and safeguarding.
• Ensure EYFS is implemented effectively across rooms.
• Monitor quality and drive improvements.
• Maintain Ofsted readiness for inspections.
• Build relationships with children, families and professionals.
• Oversee staffing, occupancy and operational performance.
• Maintain safeguarding, health and safety and regulatory compliance.

Skills

Nursery management

EYFS knowledge

Ofsted readiness

Staff development

Education

Level 3 EYFS

Job description

Willingcare is seeking an experienced Nursery Manager for a 12-month cover contract in Hampshire/Surrey. The role leads daily operations, staff performance, and safeguarding while positioning for a Floating Nursery Manager progression across our Hampshire and Surrey sites.

Ideal candidates hold Level 3 EYFS, have proven Nursery Manager experience, and demonstrate strong Ofsted readiness, EYFS knowledge, and a track record of high-quality care and team development.