Job Description

Are you an experienced, confident and passionate Nursery Manager ready to lead a thriving, nature-rich early years setting?

Woodlands Nursery & Forest School is seeking a warm, ambitious leader to guide our well-established team and help shape the next chapter of our beautiful, child-centred nursery.

At Woodlands, outdoor learning and child-led exploration sit at the heart of everything we do. Children climb, dig, create and discover - and staff are given the space and support to bring learning to life in meaningful, inspiring ways. We're more than a nursery, we're a community where children feel at home, families feel welcome, and staff feel valued.

About the Role

As Nursery Manager, you'll take full responsibility for the day-to-day running of the nursery. You'll lead with confidence and creativity, uphold outstanding standards of care and education, and nurture a positive, supportive culture across the team. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who lives and breathes early years practice and thrives in a dynamic environment.

You'll have autonomy to shape the setting in line with your vision -- while also receiving support and guidance from our directors whenever needed. You will have the independence to lead with authority, compassion and clarity while always having support.

What We're Looking For

A warm, skilled and enthusiastic leader who has:

Minimum 3 years' experience

in an early years management or leadership role

Level 3 or higher childcare qualification

Strong knowledge of

EYFS, safeguarding, SEND and Ofsted requirements

Confidence using nursery IT systems (e.g., Famly) A practical, solutions-focused approach and the ability to lead by example Excellent communication skills and the ability to motivate and develop a team A genuine passion for outdoor learning and forest school values

Key Responsibilities

As Nursery Manager, you will:

Lead day-to-day operations and ensure exemplary care and learning Mentor and support staff through supervisions, observations and training Maintain full compliance with EYFS, safeguarding and health & safety Build strong, positive relationships with families and external agencies Drive occupancy growth, including organising promotional events and open days Champion a collaborative, inclusive and supportive team culture Ensure high-quality provision both indoors and out

Employee Benefits You'll Love

Competitive salary from 35,000+ (depending on experience) Additional holiday days after several years of service Staff childcare discount Free hot lunch daily Guaranteed week of at Christmas PlayTime employee benefits platform - savings at 100s of retailers Ongoing in-house training & professional development opportunities Contributory pension scheme Fun staff events and celebrations throughout the year A beautiful, supportive working environment

Our Safer Recruitment Process

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an in-person interview and tour of the setting as part of our safer recruitment procedure.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All roles require an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references in line with our Safer Recruitment Policy.

Learn more about us at www.woodlandskids.co.uk

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From 35,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Childcare Company events Company pension Employee discount Free parking Health & wellbeing programme On-site parking Store discount
Work Location: In person