Job Description

Maternity Cover Nursery Manager - Choo Choos Day Nursery, Taunton

Contract: Fixed-term Maternity Cover (anticipated 9-12 months)

Hours: Full-time, between the hours of 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday

Location: Taunton

Start Date: 5th January 2026

About the Role

Choo Choos Day Nursery in Taunton is seeking an experienced Nursery Manager to join our friendly, dedicated team on a maternity cover basis.

As Maternity Cover Nursery Manager, you will be responsible for ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of the nursery, leading and supporting the team to deliver outstanding childcare and education. You will maintain the highest standards of practice, ensuring that every child receives exceptional care within a safe, stimulating, and nurturing environment.

You'll have the support of our Area Nursery Manager and Operations Manager, who oversee the majority of administrative tasks such as invoicing, funding, budgeting, rotas, and reporting -- allowing you to focus on what truly matters: the children, the team, and the quality of care we provide.

We're Looking For Someone Who:

Has strong leadership skills and the ability to inspire, guide and develop a motivated team. Can ensure planning, observations, and assessments are completed to an excellent standard.Builds and maintains warm, professional relationships with parents and carers. Oversees the effective maintenance of records, ordering of equipment, and management of resources. Works collaboratively with the management team to achieve occupancy targets and deliver exceptional childcare. Is passionate about supporting children aged 3 months to 5 years, fostering their curiosity and love of learning. Is enthusiastic, approachable, proactive, and a true team player. Has excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.

About Choo Choos Day Nursery

Choo Choos Day Nursery and Preschool is a family-run setting in Taunton providing high-quality care for children aged 3 months to 5 years, alongside a breakfast, afterschool club and holiday club for ages 5-11. We pride ourselves on creating a nurturing, homely environment where children thrive through curiosity, exploration, and play. Working closely with our sister setting, Chuggers Day Nursery, we share best practice and ensure every child receives the best start in life. Our nursery embraces outdoor learning and follows the Curiosity Approach, supporting natural development and imagination.

Requirements:

Minimum Level 3 qualification in Childcare/Education (Level 5 desirable) Proven management experience within an early years setting Strong working knowledge of the EYFS framework and Ofsted requirements Experience of leading or contributing to an Ofsted inspection Confident leadership and people management skills Experience supporting children with SEND needs

Benefits

:

Opportunities for professional development through HIT Training (including Level 5 qualifications) Access to a free online training portal with over 100 childcare and safeguarding courses Face-to-face paediatric first aid training for all staff Employee Assistance Programme via Health Assured (wellbeing, legal, financial, and medical support) Uniform provided Bike2Work Scheme
All staff are required to complete an enhanced DBS check prior to starting.

Interested?

If you'd like to join our warm and supportive team for this maternity cover opportunity, please apply via Indeed or send your CV and cover letter to choochoosandchuggers@outlook.com.

Job Types: Full-time, Temporary
Contract length: 9-12 months

Work Location: In person