Nursery Lead at St Michael's Church of England Primary Academy

Nursery Lead, St Michael’s CofE Primary Academy

Job Type: Fixed term until 31/08/2027

Hours: 35.25 hours per week (Monday to Friday), 39 weeks per year

Salary: Grade SC5, NJC 12-17 Actual salary £24,316 (£29,541 FTE)

Application Deadline: 9am on Monday 20^th July

Interview date: Wednesday 22^nd July

Job Start Date: 3^rd September 2026

Are you an inspiring Early Years professional with the vision, energy and passion to lead a thriving nursery into its next exciting chapter?

At St Michael's Nursery, we believe that every child deserves the very best start in life. Rooted in our Christian vision of, 'Enriching lives every day', we nurture children to grow with confidence, curiosity, resilience and kindness, enabling them to flourish as unique individuals and fulfil their God-given potential.

We are seeking an exceptional Nursery Leader to lead our dedicated team and our wonderful children aged 2–4 years. This is a fantastic opportunity for an enthusiastic and proactive leader who is passionate about high-quality early education and committed to creating a nurturing, inspiring and ambitious environment where every child can thrive.

Why St Michael's Nursery?

St Michael's Nursery recently joined our Trust, having previously operated as a much-loved community preschool. This exciting transition has brought new opportunities while preserving the warm, welcoming ethos that has made the nursery so popular with local families. We are now looking for an energetic and visionary leader to continue this journey, embedding the nursery fully within our wider school community whilst celebrating its unique identity.

Our children benefit from:

* A purpose-built nursery designed specifically for early learning and development.

* Extensive outdoor grounds that inspire exploration, creativity and adventure.

* Access to our on-site Forest School, where children develop confidence, independence and a love of the natural world.

* Use of the school hall for PE, performances and enrichment opportunities.

* Strong links with the wider school, supporting a seamless transition into Reception and beyond.

* A nurturing, child-centred environment where relationships are at the heart of learning.

The Role

As Nursery Leader, you will:

* Lead and inspire a talented and committed nursery team.

* Develop and embed a progressive, ambitious and engaging curriculum that meets the needs of all learners.

* Champion child-centred planning and high-quality interactions that enable every child to achieve their very best.

* Create an inclusive environment where every child and family feels valued and supported.

* Work closely with the EYFS Team Leader and our supportive Senior Leadership Team to drive continuous improvement and excellence.

* Play a key role in strengthening links between the nursery, school and wider community.

* Support the ongoing integration of the nursery within the Trust and wider school family.

What We Are Looking For

We are seeking someone who:

* Has a genuine passion for Early Years education and child development.

* Is an inspiring and proactive leader with high expectations for all children.

* Can motivate, develop and support a team to achieve excellence.

* Understands the importance of nurturing relationships with children, families and colleagues.

* Is committed to inclusive practice and ensuring every child can flourish.

* Shares and supports our Christian ethos and values.

* Brings creativity, enthusiasm and ambition to everything they do.

What We Offer

At St Michael's, you will join a school community that is warm, welcoming and ambitious. You will be supported by:

* A passionate and dedicated staff team.

* Engaged and supportive parents who value the nursery and school.

* Curious, enthusiastic and delightful children who love learning.

* A collaborative EYFS team and experienced Senior Leadership Team.

* Opportunities for professional development and leadership growth.

* A thriving school community where relationships matter and everyone is encouraged to flourish.

If you are ready to lead a nursery where children are nurtured to develop deep roots and bear fruit, and where you can make a lasting difference to the lives of young children and their families, we would love to hear from you.

Visits or calls with the EYFS team leader to find out more are welcomed. 

If you have any queries, please contact people@stcmat.org

Please visit the below link for information on how to apply:

https://www.stchristophersmat.org/work-with-us/current-vacancies

Your online application needs to be completed by 9am on 20^th July. Provisional interview date is 22^nd  July 2026

Please note it is our process to apply for references for shortlisted applicants and to complete online searches in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance, for all shortlisted applicants. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. An enhanced DBS Disclosure is required for this post.

Please visit the below website for our Trust policies and our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy:

https://www.stchristophersmat.org/key-information/item/10/trust-policies

Our commitment to EDI

We welcome individuals from all backgrounds and are committed to cultivating a diverse and inclusive workplace. Applicants who meet the criteria will be considered for employment, regardless of race, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, age or veteran status.