Job Description

We are seeking a

dedicated, experienced, and passionate Nursery Director

to lead our two well-established nurseries, both recognised for providing exceptional early years care and education for over

20 years

.

The successful candidate will have a strong background in

early childhood education, leadership, and operational management

, with the vision and expertise to maintain and further develop our high standards. You will foster a nurturing, inclusive, and stimulating environment where children, families, and staff can thrive.

This role requires a leader who demonstrates

strategic thinking

,

operational excellence

, and an unwavering commitment to

safeguarding

,

compliance

, and

quality education

in line with

Ofsted

and

EYFS

standards.

Duties & Responsibilities

Provide

strategic and operational leadership

across both nursery sites, ensuring excellence in all areas of provision. Ensure compliance with

Ofsted regulations

,

safeguarding requirements

,

health and safety standards

, and

local authority frameworks

. Oversee daily operations, including staffing, occupancy management, budgeting, and quality assurance. Develop and implement

innovative educational programmes

that support children's learning and development across all areas of the EYFS. Lead on

safeguarding and child protection

, ensuring all staff understand and uphold statutory responsibilities and best practices. Manage

staff recruitment, induction, training, supervision, and appraisals

, promoting a culture of professional growth and accountability. Build and maintain

strong partnerships with parents, carers, and external agencies

, ensuring open communication and shared goals for each child. Conduct

internal audits, policy reviews, and self-evaluations

to maintain continuous improvement and inspection readiness. Monitor children's progress, ensuring individual needs are met through targeted planning and inclusive practice. Oversee and manage

financial performance

, including budgets, payroll, and resource allocation. Promote a

positive, team-oriented culture

that reflects the nurseries' ethos and long-standing reputation for excellence. Represent the nurseries at

Ofsted inspections, local authority meetings, and community events

as required. Drive continuous improvement through reflective practice, data-driven decision-making, and innovation.

Essential Skills and Experience

Minimum of 5 years' experience

in a senior management or leadership role within an early years or childcare setting.

Relevant Level 3 or above qualification

in Early Years Education, Childcare, or Leadership and Management (or working towards one). Proven ability to

lead and manage multiple settings

or large teams effectively. Comprehensive knowledge of

Ofsted inspection frameworks

,

EYFS curriculum

,

safeguarding

, and

child protection legislation

. Strong understanding of

SEND

and inclusive practices. Demonstrated ability to

make independent, confident decisions

and manage complex situations calmly and effectively. Experience managing

budgets, financial performance, and operational efficiency

. Excellent

organisational, analytical, and time management skills

, with the ability to prioritise competing demands. Outstanding

communication and interpersonal skills

to engage with children, staff, parents, and external professionals. A proven track record in

driving quality improvement

and maintaining

'Good' or 'Outstanding' Ofsted outcomes

. Ability to

lead by example

, inspiring trust, professionalism, and commitment across teams. High level of

digital literacy

, including proficiency in nursery management software, reporting systems, and Microsoft Office. A proactive, flexible approach with a strong sense of

responsibility, integrity, and confidentiality

. Commitment to promoting

equality, diversity, and inclusion

in all aspects of nursery life. A genuine passion for

early years education

, child development, and lifelong learning.
Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From 50,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person