Pre-School Manager

New Wine; Tonbridge; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 26,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Opportunity to lead a well-established setting

Make a meaningful difference to children

Job summary

New Wine in Tonbridge is seeking an experienced Pre-School Manager to lead a passionate team at Steps Pre-School. The successful candidate will ensure high-quality education and care, aligning with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and the strong Christian ethos of the church.

This role requires a Level 3 Early Years qualification and leadership experience within early years. A salary of £24,000 - £26,000 per annum is offered, with the closing date for applications on 27th July 2026.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a leadership role within early years.
• A warm, values-led leadership style.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the daily operation of the pre-school.
• Ensure alignment with the church's vision.
• Act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead.
• Inspire and manage a dedicated staff team.
• Develop a creative EYFS curriculum.

Skills

Leadership experience in early years

Strong understanding of EYFS

Excellent communication skills

Organisational skills

Education

Level 3 Early Years qualification or above

Job description

St Stephen's Church, Tonbridge, England, United Kingdom

Salary: £24,000 - £26,000 per annum (FTE £33,500 - £36,350)

Pre‑School Manager

Steps Pre‑School, based at St Stephen’s Church, Tonbridge, is seeking an experienced and passionate Pre‑School Manager to lead our warm, nurturing, and faith‑centred setting. This is an exciting opportunity for a committed early years professional to provide outstanding leadership, ensuring high‑quality education and care in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), while actively promoting our strong Christian ethos.

As Pre‑School Manager, you will:

• Lead and manage the daily operation of the pre‑school
• Ensure alignment with the vision and ministry of the church
• Act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead
• Inspire and manage a dedicated staff team
• Develop and deliver a creative, inclusive EYFS curriculum
• Build strong relationships with parents, carers, and the church community
• Ensure compliance with Ofsted, safeguarding, and statutory requirements
• Support the long‑term growth and sustainability of Steps Pre‑School

We are looking for someone with:

• A Level 3 Early Years qualification or above
• Proven experience in a leadership or management role within early years
• A strong understanding of EYFS and child development
• Excellent communication and organisational skills
• A warm, values‑led leadership style
• A commitment to ongoing professional development

This role is subject to a Genuine Occupational Requirement that the successful candidate is a practising Christian, whose life and work reflect the values of the Christian faith.

An Enhanced DBS check (including barred list) is required.

We are offering:

• Opportunity to lead and develop a well‑established setting
• A role that makes a meaningful difference to children and families
• A salary of £24,000 - £26,000 per annum depending on experience (FTE £33,500 - £36,350)

Closing date for applications: 9am on Monday 27th July 2026