Job Description

Head of Pre-School and Day Care

Location: London

Salary: 45,000 - 48,000 per annum

Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

About the Role

We are seeking a passionate, strategic, and experienced early years leader to head our outstanding pre-school and day care setting. This is a rare and exciting opportunity to shape and grow a unique intergenerational early years environment that integrates strong educational values with community care and cultural ethos.

As Head of Pre-School and Day Care, you will be responsible for the overall leadership and management of the nursery, ensuring high-quality teaching and care, financial sustainability, compliance, staff development, and family engagement.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Strategy

Lead and inspire a multidisciplinary team across teaching, care, and support functions. Develop and deliver the strategic plan in collaboration with the Board. Maintain and improve on the nursery's Outstanding Ofsted rating. Ensure compliance with the EYFS, safeguarding legislation, and all statutory regulations. Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and nurturing environment rooted in the setting's values and community ethos.
Teaching and Learning

Develop and oversee a child-centred, play-based curriculum informed by EYFS and broader community values. Regularly monitor and evaluate teaching and learning across the setting. Support and implement curriculum planning, assessment, and individual learning pathways. Promote a culture of continuous improvement in pedagogy and care.
Safeguarding and Welfare

Act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead for the setting. Ensure all safeguarding policies, procedures, and practices are in place and adhered to. Create a safe, secure, and nurturing environment for all children.
Team Management and Development

Recruit, train, and support a diverse staff team, including room leaders, early years practitioners, business staff, and volunteers. Lead performance management, supervision, appraisals, and professional development. Promote a culture of reflection, learning, and team collaboration.
Operations and Business Management

Work with the Business Manager to manage nursery finances, budgets, and forecasts. Lead on business development and marketing to support pupil recruitment and retention. Ensure the smooth running of daily operations and efficient staff deployment. Support healthy eating and dietary practices in line with community standards.
Family and Community Engagement

Build strong relationships with parents, carers, and key community stakeholders. Promote family involvement in the life of the nursery and children's learning journeys. Support children and families in accessing additional services as required.
Person Specification

Essential Qualifications and Skills

Minimum Level 3 Early Years Education and Childcare qualification (or equivalent) Paediatric First Aid Recent safeguarding and safer recruitment training Strong IT and administrative skills
Essential Experience

Minimum 5 years' leadership experience in an early years setting Strong understanding of child development and early years pedagogy Proven ability to monitor and evaluate quality of provision Experience with curriculum planning, SEN, safeguarding, and inclusive practice Strong leadership, communication, and organisational skills
Desirable

Experience in a Jewish and/or intergenerational setting (desirable but not required)
Why Join Us?

Lead a well-respected, community-rooted early years setting Make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and families Work in a forward-thinking and supportive environment Competitive salary and opportunities for professional growth
This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expect all staff to share this commitment.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 45,000.00-48,000.00 per year

Application question(s):

Do you require a sponsorship visa? What is your email? What is your number? Do you have experience in senior roles?
Work Location: In person