Nursery Manager

Full Time | Permanent

St Margaret Clitherow Nursery

Are you an inspirational early years professional with the passion, vision and leadership skills to make a lasting difference in children’s lives?

St Margaret Clitherow Nursery is seeking an exceptional Nursery Manager to lead and continue the development of our nurturing, ambitious and child-centred setting. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced and motivated leader to build upon the strong foundations already established and help shape the next chapter of our nursery journey.

We are looking for someone who is warm, approachable and passionate about delivering the very highest standards of care and education for every child. The successful candidate will lead a dedicated team, inspire excellence in teaching and learning, and create an environment where children, staff and families thrive together.

About the Role

As Nursery Manager, you will be responsible for the day-to-day leadership and management of the nursery, ensuring high-quality provision that reflects the values and ethos of the school. You will lead with positivity, professionalism and compassion, creating a safe, stimulating and inclusive environment where every child can flourish.

This role requires a strong understanding of the EYFS framework, safeguarding responsibilities and effective team leadership, alongside excellent organisational and communication skills.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Management

• Lead and inspire the nursery team to deliver outstanding early years practice.
• Create a positive, supportive and reflective working environment.
• Monitor and evaluate the quality of teaching, learning and care across the setting.
• Support staff development through coaching, mentoring and training.
• Ensure effective staff deployment and day-to-day operational management.

Quality of Education

• Ensure the curriculum is engaging, inclusive and developmentally appropriate.
• Promote high expectations for children’s learning, progress and wellbeing.
• Monitor children’s development and ensure appropriate support and interventions are in place.
• Champion school readiness and positive outcomes for all children.

Safeguarding and Welfare

• Ensure safeguarding and child protection procedures are implemented rigorously.
• Maintain high standards of health, safety and hygiene across the setting.
• Promote children’s emotional wellbeing and positive behaviour.

Partnership with Families

• Build strong and trusting relationships with parents and carers.
• Foster excellent communication between home and nursery.
• Promote a welcoming and inclusive community atmosphere.

Administration and Compliance

• Ensure compliance with Ofsted, EYFS and statutory requirements.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Support admissions, occupancy and nursery administration where required.
• Contribute to strategic development and continuous improvement planning.

Person Specification

Essential Qualifications and Experience

• Full and relevant Level 3 qualification in Early Years (minimum requirement).
• Previous leadership or management experience within an early years setting.
• Strong knowledge and understanding of the EYFS framework.
• Secure understanding of safeguarding and child protection procedures.
• Experience leading and supporting teams effectively.
• Excellent communication and organisational skills.

Desirable

• Level 5 qualification or Early Years Degree.
• SENCO experience or knowledge.
• Paediatric First Aid qualification.
• Experience preparing for or leading Ofsted inspections.

We Are Looking For Someone Who:

• Is passionate about early years education and child development.
• Leads with warmth, integrity and professionalism.
• Has high expectations for children and staff alike.
• Is nurturing, approachable and supportive.
• Can inspire, motivate and develop others.
• Is resilient, organised and solution-focused.
• Values teamwork and positive relationships.
• Has a genuine commitment to creating the best possible outcomes for children.

We Can Offer

• A warm, welcoming and supportive school community.
• Enthusiastic and caring children.
• A committed and dedicated staff team.
• Opportunities for professional development and leadership growth.
• The chance to make a real difference in a developing and ambitious nursery setting.

Safeguarding Statement

St Margaret Clitherow Nursery is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to enhanced DBS checks and satisfactory references.