Nursery manager

Up to £22 per hour + weekly pay + holiday pay

Contract

Early Years

POSTED ON

12 AUGUST 2026

REFERENCE

rcko_

Job Title: Nursery Manager

Location: The Oak Tree

Salary: £45,000 per annum (Pro-rata for 3-month contract)

Contract Type: 3-Month Fixed-Term Contract with the opportunity for contract to become perm

Hours: Full-time

About Us

We believe early years education should be inspiring, holistic, and deeply connected to the natural world. Operated under The Natural Childcare Company's vision, we provide a nurturing, eco-conscious environment where children learn through exploration, outdoor play, and curiosity-led experiences.

We are seeking an experienced, passionate, and visionary Nursery Manager to join us on a 3-month fixed-term contract to lead our team and maintain high standards across all areas of early years care and education.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Development: Lead, inspire, and mentor a high-performing team of early years educators. Oversee staff appraisals, professional development, and day-to-day team dynamics.

Pedagogical Leadership: Deliver an engaging, high-quality, child-centered curriculum based on the EYFS framework and holistic, nature-based learning principles.

Operational Excellence: Manage day-to-day nursery administration, scheduling, budgeting, and financial planning to maintain operational efficiency.

Safeguarding & Health & Safety: Serve as the designated safeguarding lead, maintaining robust safety procedures, risk assessments, and regulatory compliance.

Parent & Community Engagement: Build strong, trusting relationships with parents, ensuring clear communication and regular updates on children's growth and wellbeing.

Quality & Inspections: Lead continuous quality improvements, driving readiness for Ofsted inspections and maintaining high rating standards.

Eco-Conscious Practices: Embed sustainability and environmental care into daily nursery routines, inspiring children to connect with nature.

Requirements

Qualification: Level 3 or higher in Early Years Education (Degree level or equivalent highly desirable).

Experience: Proven experience in a Nursery Manager or senior early years leadership role.

Knowledge: Expert knowledge of the EYFS framework, safeguarding procedures, and Ofsted requirements.

Skills: Outstanding team leadership, budget management, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

Availability: Immediate or short notice period to cover the 3-month contract term.

Passions: A genuine commitment to outdoor play, eco-conscious education, and child-centered holistic learning.

What We Offer

Healthcare Support: Access to the Paycare cash plan scheme.

Professional Development: Ongoing training and leadership support.

Work Environment: A collaborative, supportive, and eco-friendly atmosphere where your leadership makes an immediate impact.