Nursery Manager: Child-Led Learning & Ofsted Excellence

Willing Care Recruitment Limited; Rickmansworth; Remote; GBP 40,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Willing Care Recruitment Limited is seeking an experienced Nursery Manager to lead an Outstanding Ofsted-rated nursery that follows a child-led approach. You will oversee daily operations, support staff, and ensure high standards of care and education in line with EYFS.

The role requires a Level 3 Early Years qualification or above, plus proven Nursery Manager experience. You will manage staffing, occupancy and budgets while promoting engaging learning environments.

Qualifications

• Level 3 Early Years qualification or above (essential).
• Experience as Nursery Manager (essential).
• Strong knowledge of EYFS, Ofsted, safeguarding.
• Proven experience leading and developing an Early Years team.
• Experience managing staffing, occupancy and budgets.
• Passion for child-led learning and engaging environments.
• Excellent communication, organisational and leadership skills.
• Proactive, supportive, hands-on management approach.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day running of the nursery with high care and education standards.
• Lead, motivate and develop the nursery team in a positive environment.
• Ensure curriculum and learning experiences align with EYFS.
• Promote child-led learning across indoor and outdoor spaces.
• Maintain Outstanding Ofsted standards through continuous improvement.
• Manage staffing, recruitment, occupancy and nursery performance.
• Oversee observations, assessments and quality of teaching and learning.
• Build strong relationships with parents, carers and community.
• Ensure safeguarding, health and safety and regulatory compliance.
• Support staff development through mentoring, training and performance management.

Skills

EYFS knowledge

Ofsted requirements

Safeguarding

Team leadership

Operations management

Child-led learning

Communication skills

Leadership

Hands-on management

Education

Level 3 Early Years qualification

Job description

Willing Care Recruitment Limited is seeking an experienced Nursery Manager to lead an Outstanding Ofsted-rated nursery that follows a child-led approach. You will oversee daily operations, support staff, and ensure high standards of care and education in line with EYFS.

The role requires a Level 3 Early Years qualification or above, plus proven Nursery Manager experience. You will manage staffing, occupancy and budgets while promoting engaging learning environments.