We are opening a new, independent nursery in the heart of Angel and looking for an exceptional Nursery Manager to lead it.
This is a rare opportunity to build a setting from the ground up. You will join us ahead of opening to lead Ofsted registration, recruit and shape your own team, and set the culture, curriculum approach and daily rhythm of the nursery — rather than inheriting someone else’s.
We are a small, founder-led business with a strong local reputation and an established community of families in the area. You will have genuine autonomy, direct access to decision-makers, and the backing of an experienced early years operator supporting you as Area Manager.
If you have ever wanted to run a nursery the way you believe it should be run, this is that role.
What you’ll do
- Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead, ensuring safeguarding policy and practice is embedded across the setting
- Lead the Ofsted registration process and prepare the nursery for opening
- Recruit, induct, lead and develop the nursery team, building a culture where staff want to stay
- Oversee the daily running of the nursery in line with EYFS and Ofsted requirements
- Manage rotas and maintain correct staff-to-child ratios at all times
- Ensure every child receives high-quality, inclusive care and education, with progress observed, assessed and documented
- Build warm, trusted relationships with parents, carers and external agencies
- Manage budgets, fees, occupancy and resources with support from the Area Manager
- Own health and safety, risk assessment, food hygiene and fire safety compliance
- Conduct supervisions, appraisals and team meetings, and address performance issues in line with policy
What we’re looking for
Essential
- Level 3 Early Years qualification or above
- At least 2 years in a senior or managerial early years role (Room Leader, Deputy Manager or Manager)
- In-depth working knowledge of EYFS, Ofsted requirements and safeguarding legislation
- Strong leadership, communication and organisational skills
- Confident managing rotas, staff performance and operational priorities
- Genuine commitment to staff wellbeing as well as children’s
Desirable
- Level 5 or above
- Current Paediatric First Aid and DSL training
- Experience of Ofsted inspections with Good or Outstanding outcomes
- Understanding of the SEND Code of Practice and inclusive provision
- Experience of a nursery opening or registration
- Knowledge of local community resources and partnership working
What we offer
- salary depending on experience and qualification
- Performance-related bonus linked to occupancy and inspection outcome
- Real ownership of a setting from day one, with input into design, curriculum and team
- Funded training and professional development
- Generous holiday allowance including bank holidays
- Small, supportive leadership team with direct access to the founders
- Excellent transport links — minutes from Angel and Farringdon
Safeguarding
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references and a commitment to ongoing safeguarding and child protection training. We follow safer recruitment practice throughout.
Pay: £42,000.00-£50,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
