Nursery Manager – Happy Orkids (Based at Ilford Jewish Primary School)
Location: Ilford, London
Setting: Happy Orkids Nursery, based in Ilford Jewish Primary School
Job Type: Full-time
Salary: Competitive & NEGOTIABLE (based on experience)
About Us
Happy Orkids is a warm, nurturing, and child-centred nursery located within Ilford Jewish Primary School. We work closely with the school to create a supportive early years environment that prepares children for a smooth transition into primary education.
We are also part of a growing group of nurseries, with six other established sites. As part of the Happy Orkids family, you will be supported by experienced senior managers and a wider leadership team, providing guidance, collaboration, and opportunities to develop as we continue expanding our provision.
The Role
We are looking for a passionate and experienced Nursery Manager to lead our Ilford setting. The successful candidate will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the nursery, ensuring outstanding standards of care, learning, and safeguarding, while building strong relationships with the primary school, families, and the wider Happy Orkids leadership team.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage the daily operations of the nursery.
- Ensure full compliance with EYFS, safeguarding, and Ofsted requirements.
- Inspire, support, and develop a team of early years practitioners.
- Maintain a stimulating and safe learning environment for children.
- Work closely with Ilford Jewish Primary School to support children’s transition into school.
- Build strong relationships with parents, carers, and the local community.
- Manage staff performance, recruitment, and professional development.
- Oversee nursery administration, policies, and record keeping.
- Ensure the highest standards of safeguarding, health, and safety.
Requirements
- Level 3 qualification in Early Years (Level 5 or above preferred).
- Experience as a Nursery Manager or Deputy Manager.
- Strong knowledge of the EYFS framework and Ofsted expectations.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and organisational skills.
- Passion for early years education and supporting children’s development.
- Ability to work collaboratively with school leadership and senior managers.
- Safeguarding training (or willingness to complete).
What We Offer
- A supportive leadership structure with senior managers across six other nursery sites.
- Opportunity to be part of a growing and ambitious nursery group.
- Professional development and leadership support.
- A collaborative working environment within a primary school setting.
- Competitive salary based on experience.
How to Apply
If you are an enthusiastic and experienced early years professional ready to lead a nursery and be part of a growing organisation, we would love to hear from you.
Please apply through Indeed with your CV and a short cover note explaining why you would be a great fit for Happy Orkids.
Happy Orkids is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All successful applicants will be subject to enhanced DBS checks and references.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £37,000.00-£42,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Additional leave
- Childcare
- Company events
- Company pension
- Employee discount
- On-site parking
- Work from home
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Ilford IG6 3HE: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Application question(s):
- Do you have excellent computer skills?
- Are you available to work all year round and fully flexible?
Education:
- Diploma of Higher Education (required)
Experience:
- Nursery management: 3 years (required)
- Management: 3 years (required)
Work Location: In person
