Job Description

Please note we can only accept applications via MyNewTerm. Please use the following link to apply: https://mynewterm.com/jobs/145032/EDV-2025-GHCES-04872

Nursery and Pre-School Manager

Would you like to work in a small village friendly and nurturing school that offers a range of opportunities?

Do you have the drive and determination to expand our current nursery and take us on an exciting journey to shape and deliver high quality EYFS provision?

Can you inspire our children to be the best that they can be helping them to thrive and flourish?

If so, we need you in our Seedlings Nursery & Pre-School at Great Horwood Church of England School.

We are looking for an experienced, motivated, and dedicated Nursery Manager to lead our expanding Seedlings Nursery & Pre-school provision at Great Horwood Church of England School. The successful candidate will ensure the smooth daily operation of the provision. The ideal candidate will have a passion for developing early childhood education and play a key role in shaping and delivering high-quality early years education and care. They will have strong leadership skills and a commitment to ensuring that all children are provided with rich learning experiences and a safe, nurturing environment where they can flourish.

The nursery manager will be well supported by a strong and experienced team, including the headteacher, deputy headteacher/SENDCO, admin officer, and school business manager. They will also benefit from the guidance of three additional DSLs and a dedicated family liaison officer, all working together to ensure the nursery runs smoothly and to help the nursery manager thrive in their role.

About the role

Position: Full time Nursery Manager

Location: Great Horwood Church of England School, Buckinghamshire, MK17 0RG

Contract type: Permanent

Start date: ASAP

Full time: 52 weeks a year 40 hours per week

Salary: Bucks pay range 3-point 16-20; Actual salary will be 30,410.26-32.621.11

The actual salary is based on a 40 hour week and will be dependent on the experience of the candidate and the hours worked. Please note that the full-time equivalent salary for 37 hours a week is 28,129-30,174 FTE

Holiday: 28 days

10 days to be taken during Nursery shut down, 8 bank holidays and a further 10 days to be taken during the year. (Nursery shut down is 1 week at Christmas and 1 week during August)

How to apply

Applications must be made online through My New Term. A link to my New Term can be found on the school website vacancies page Great Horwood Church of England School - Vacancies

Closing date: 31st October 2025 although applications will be considered on receipt.

The school reserves the right to make appointments before the closing date.

Interviews: At the earliest convenience for both parties

Early application is advised as we reserve the right to close the advert and interview early should a suitable applicant be found.

About Us

Great Horwood Seedlings Nursery and Pre-school is an integral part of Great Horwood Church of England School; a nurturing and community-driven educational setting located in the heart of the village. The school community is guided by the Christian ethos and core values of Love, Perseverance, and Respect, fostering a culture where children are encouraged to value themselves and others. These values are reflected in every aspect of school life, creating a safe and welcoming environment where all individuals are empowered to grow, flourish, and reach their full potential. The school's vision, "I am the vine, you are the branches," underpins its commitment to nurturing each child's unique abilities and interests.

Great Horwood Seedlings Nursery and Pre-school adopts a natural curiosity approach to early years education, encouraging exploration, imaginative play, and a love for learning. The setting promotes high standards of achievement within a caring and nurturing atmosphere, where children are supported to develop a thirst for knowledge and an inquisitive mindset about the world around them.

Housed in the school's original Victorian building, built in 1862, the nursery has recently undergone extensive renovation and refurbishment to accommodate its expanding provision. This project reflects the school's forward-thinking outlook and commitment to creating an inspiring and modern learning environment while preserving its historic charm.

The nursery and pre-school benefit from the wider school's excellent facilities and a naturally inspiring location. Set on the edge of the village and surrounded by beautiful countryside, children have access to a large playing field, two playgrounds, and an adventure playground. In addition, a dedicated woodland conservation area, complete with a pond, provides rich opportunities for forest school sessions that enhance outdoor learning and stimulate natural curiosity.

The nursery is supported by a small, dedicated team of educators who are passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of young learners. The staff strive to ensure that every child receives the care, attention, and learning opportunities they need to thrive. Strong community links and a supportive school culture enhance this provision, making it a truly collaborative place to learn and grow.

Great Horwood Seedlings Nursery and Pre-school offers an exceptional early years experience within a vibrant Christian school community. With its nurturing ethos, stimulating environment, and dedication to developing the whole child, it provides a strong foundation for lifelong learning. For those looking to join a caring, dynamic, and purpose-driven educational team, Great Horwood presents an inspiring opportunity to be part of something truly special.

Our website is https://www.greathorwood.bucks.sch.uk/

As Nursery Manager, you will be responsible for:

Overseeing the daily operations of the nursery and pre-school, ensuring compliance with all regulations and standards. Leading and working alongside a small, supportive and enthusiastic team. Developing and implementing a stimulating and high-quality educational curriculum that offers play and learning opportunities in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. Providing activities that promote the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development of young children. Maintaining open and effective communication with parents and guardians, addressing any concerns and providing regular updates on their child's progress. Ensuring the safety and well-being of all children in your care, implementing Safeguarding and health & safety policies and procedures. Managing the nursery and pre-school budget with support from the School business manager and headteacher. Fostering a positive and inclusive environment that respects and values diversity. Staying up-to-date with the latest relevant training and developments in early childhood education and incorporating best practices into the curriculum. Working together with the family liaison officer to fostering strong partnerships with families and the wider school community Contributing to the ongoing development and improvement of the nursery setting.

About You:

We are seeking a practitioner who:

Has a genuine passion for early years education and places children at the heart of everything they do. Possesses a strong working knowledge of the EYFS framework and the Development Matters guidance. Acts as an excellent role model and leads by example. Communicates clearly and effectively with colleagues, children, and families. Believes in and supports inclusive education for all children. Thrives in a collaborative, close-knit team environment. Demonstrates flexibility, initiative, and a willingness to adapt to the evolving needs of the nursery & pre-school. Is eager to contribute to the continuous improvement and growth of the setting. Has high expectations for the care and development of every child.

We Can Offer You:

A unique opportunity to be part of a happy, forward-thinking, and successful village school. The chance to be at the heart of a new and exciting phase of development in our nursery provision. Full support from experienced and caring nursery and school staff. Enthusiastic and well-behaved children who love to play and learn. A welcoming Christian community with strong values of Love, Perseverance, and Respect. A beautiful rural setting with access to outdoor learning spaces, including a woodland conservation area and forest school. Excellent professional development and career progression opportunities. Committed staff and governors who value teamwork and personal growth. Ongoing professional development and leadership training opportunities.
Join us at Great Horwood Seedlings Nursery & Pre-school - where curiosity, care, and community come together to give every child the best possible start.

We are part of the Oxford Diocese Bucks Schools Trust (ODBST) and are thrilled that you are considering joining our esteemed family of schools. As part of ODBST, you will have access to high-quality training, focused support, and clear career development opportunities.

About ODBST

ODBST is a family of 13 primary schools located across Buckinghamshire. Our Trust is dedicated to fostering a supportive and collaborative environment where staff can thrive both professionally and personally. By joining ODBST, you become part of a community that values continuous professional development (CPD), networking, and in-house support.

Benefits of Joining ODBST

We are committed to the well-being and professional growth of our staff. Here are some of the key benefits you can expect as part of the ODBST family:

Employee Assistance Programme with Schools Advisory Service: Access a wide range of support services including GP consultations, menopause support, counselling, mindfulness sessions, chronic illness support, physiotherapy, and fitness services. Free Flu Vaccination Vouchers: Stay healthy with complimentary flu vaccinations. Free Eye Tests for Computer Users: Ensure your eye health with free eye tests. Cycle 2 Work Scheme: Promote a healthy lifestyle and sustainable commuting with our Cycle 2 Work Scheme. Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS): Secure your future with access to the LGPS. Extensive CPD Opportunities: Benefit from Trust-wide subject mentoring, networking opportunities, and apprenticeships. Commitment to Sustainability: Join our efforts to work sustainably, use green energy, and reduce our Trust emissions to reach net zero by 2035.
By becoming part of ODBST, you will not only advance your career but also make a significant impact on the futures of the children we serve. We look forward to welcoming you to our team and supporting you every step of the way.

Other Information

Job description and Personal specification are included in the information pack which can be found on MyNewTerm (https://mynewterm.com/jobs/145032/EDV-2025-GHCES-04872)

Queries to office@ghw.odbst.org 01296 712622

Visits to the school are warmly welcomed and encouraged.

Please telephone or email the school for more details and arrange a visit or an informal chat with the Headteacher, Paula Shaw.

Administrative Assistant: Caroline Whatley

Great Horwood CE School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. An enhanced DBS check, online check, medical questionnaire, and qualifications check will be required for the successful candidate.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 30,410.00-32,621.00 per year

Benefits:

Health & wellbeing programme Sick pay
Work Location: In person