Job Description

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced and inspiring Early Years Manager to lead a distinctive, high-quality childcare setting that embraces an intergenerational model. This is a rare opportunity to play a pivotal role in a purpose-driven environment where young children and older adults come together in a shared space of care, learning, and community. Our setting supports up to 80 children, aged 9 months to pre-school, within a warm, inclusive culture rooted in strong community values.

The ideal candidate will bring a solid background in early years leadership and a deep passion for progressive, child-centred education. You will oversee the daily operations, lead a dedicated team, uphold regulatory standards, and maintain the nursery's reputation for excellence in care, education, and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategy

Lead and inspire a team of early years practitioners and support staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performing workplace culture. Manage recruitment, performance reviews, and ongoing staff development. Collaborate with the governing board to set and implement strategic goals for continuous improvement and sustainable growth. Ensure full compliance with Ofsted, legal, and regulatory requirements. Build strong relationships with families, community partners, and other stakeholders.
Curriculum & Learning

Deliver a rich, engaging curriculum aligned with the EYFS and the setting's inclusive, intergenerational ethos. Monitor teaching quality and learning outcomes to ensure every child thrives. Design and implement learning experiences that support all children, including those with additional needs. Promote reflective practice and professional learning within the team. Facilitate early intervention and support services in partnership with families where needed.
Safeguarding & Wellbeing

Serve as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), ensuring robust child protection procedures are in place. Champion a culture of safeguarding across all areas of the setting. Maintain compliance with health and safety, GDPR, and equality legislation.
Business & Community Development

Work alongside the business manager to manage budgets and ensure financial sustainability. Develop and implement marketing strategies to support enrolment growth and income targets. Raise the setting's profile within the local community and maintain high regulatory ratings.
Operational Excellence

Ensure smooth day-to-day operations in a safe, nurturing environment. Support the delivery of healthy, balanced meals in accordance with dietary standards. Collaborate with the board to regularly review and refine operational policies and practices.
Required Experience

Minimum of 5 years' leadership experience in an early years or nursery setting. Strong track record in curriculum design, team management, and quality assurance. Extensive knowledge of EYFS, child development, and safeguarding best practices. Experience supporting children with SEND and working in inclusive education settings. Familiarity with financial oversight, business planning, and stakeholder engagement.
Qualifications & Essential Skills

Minimum Level 3 Early Years Qualification (Level 4 or higher preferred). Current training in Paediatric First Aid, Safeguarding, and Safer Recruitment. Strong administrative, digital, and organisational skills. Excellent leadership and interpersonal abilities. Commitment to inclusive, child-centred practices.
Personal Attributes

Visionary and hands-on leader with a deep sense of purpose. Strong communicator with excellent problem-solving skills. Adaptable, proactive, and committed to continuous learning. Passionate about intergenerational work and community impact.
What We Offer

A leadership role in a nationally recognised, pioneering setting. Competitive salary package. Ongoing professional development and mentoring. Pension scheme and staff childcare discount. Generous holiday allowance. Access to wellbeing support and resources. A positive, values-driven working culture.
- we can't provide sponsorship

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you're a dedicated early years leader with a passion for innovation, inclusion, and lifelong learning, we welcome your application for this rewarding and impactful role.

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Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 45,000.00-48,000.00 per year

Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Application question(s):

Do you have the Right to Work? We don't offer any sponsorship? What is your email? What is your number?
Work Location: In person