Job Advertisement: Early Years Centre Manager
Location: The Oaks Preschool and Activity Centre (linked to Eastcourt School)
Contract: Fixed-term (1 year); term time (LBBD dates)
Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Salary: Competitive, with onsite parking available during working hours
About the Role
We are seeking to recruit a dynamic and passionate Early Years Centre Manager to lead The Oaks Preschool and Activity Centre through an exciting period of development. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the centre, supporting children’s learning and well-being both indoors and outdoors, with a particular interest in outdoor learning.
As a preschool linked to Eastcourt School, we are committed to nurturing the creativity, independence and resilience of every child and work very closely with the London Borough of Barking and Dgenham who support our setting.
Purpose of the Role
- To lead and manage The Oaks Preschool and Activity Centre.
- To manage the Early Years team, taking responsibility for the welfare, care, learning and holistic development of the children.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Management
- Lead The Oaks as a centre of excellence, fostering an environment where high standards of care and learning are achieved.
- Mentor and support the Early Years team, promoting a positive working culture based on collaboration, creativity, and initiative.
- Oversee all daily operations to ensure statutory compliance, particularly within Ofsted regulations and frameworks.
Curriculum & Teaching
- Work in partnership with Eastcourt School to plan, deliver, and assess a curriculum based on the EYFS framework.
- Ensure that room leaders provide appropriate continuous provision aligned with EYFS.
- Guide and support staff in creating high-quality displays and a stimulating environment for children.
Parental Engagement
- Build strong, positive relationships with parents and carers, including maintaining an individual learning journey for each child.
- Promote effective communication and involvement of parents/carers in their child’s development.
Meetings & Reporting
- Attend meetings with the Head and Deputy Head of Eastcourt School.
- Report on key developments, progress and any issues requiring senior leadership support.
Operational Oversight
- Manage resources to ensure availability for continuous provision.
- Oversee cleaning staff to maintain a clean, tidy, and welcoming environment.
- Ensure the kitchen and all food preparation areas meet legal food hygiene standards, following Food Standards Agency guidelines.
What We Offer
- A supportive and welcoming team environment.
- Opportunities to develop and implement your own ideas and approaches.
- Access to on-site parking.
- A chance to make a meaningful impact in a community-focused setting.
Person Specification
- Proven leadership experience in an early years setting.
- Strong understanding of the EYFS framework and early years pedagogy.
- A commitment to outdoor learning and holistic child development.
- Excellent communication and organisational skills.
- Ability to inspire and motivate a team.
If you are passionate about early childhood education and want to be part of something special, we would love to hear from you.
To apply or to request more information, please contact us on 0208 590 5472 or [email protected].
Job Title: The Oaks Preschool and Activity Centre Manager
Reporting to: Headteacher of Eastcourt Independent School and Proprietor of The Oaks
Department: EYFS – Early Years
Hours: Full Time, term time
Contract: 12 months FTC/on site
Salary: £34,000 - £37,000 (depending on experience).
Person Specification:
Essential:
· minimum qualification NVQ Level 3 in childcare or equivalent
· up-to-date child protection and safeguarding training (Level 3)
· up-to-date first aid training
· significant experience of working with children and managing transitions; able to relay important information to prospective/existing parents
· experience of managing staff including early years practitioners
· a clear enhanced DBS check
Desirable:
· a clear understanding of and commitment to a high level of quality assurance
· good oral, written and ICT communication skills
· excellent organisational skills with the ability to prioritise, plan, adapt and meet deadlines
· excellent interpersonal skills including a willingness to accept positive criticism, the ability to listen and empathise with others sensitivity and discretion
· high levels of commitment, motivation, energy and enthusiasm
· the ability to think creatively and solve problems
· an awareness of when to seek advice and support
· a love of outdoor learning in all weathers
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £34,000.00-£37,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- On-site parking
Licence/Certification:
- Early Years appropriate qualification (required)
Work Location: In person
