Are you an inspirational Early Years leader looking for the opportunity to create something exceptional?
Godstowe School is seeking a passionate, experienced and forward-thinking Nursery Manager to lead our thriving, new, all-year-round Nursery. This is a fantastic opportunity to shape the future of our Nursery, inspire a dedicated team and provide outstanding early years education within one of the country's leading independent preparatory schools.
This is a unique opportunity for an ambitious Early Years professional to bring their vision, expertise and passion to a highly regarded independent school community. Working closely with the Headmaster, you will lead the development of a nurturing, inspiring and exceptional Nursery environment where children are encouraged to flourish from their very first steps in education.
You will inspire and support a dedicated team, champion excellence in early years practice and create an environment where every child feels valued, confident and excited to learn.
About Godstowe School
Godstowe School is one of the UK's leading independent preparatory schools for girls aged 3 to 13, with boys welcomed into the Nursery and Pre-Prep. Set within 12 acres of beautiful grounds in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, Godstowe has been inspiring children since 1900 through an outstanding education that nurtures confidence, curiosity and a genuine love of learning.
Our Nursery provides exceptional care and education for children from 9 months to 4 years, offering a warm, stimulating and nurturing environment where every child is encouraged to flourish. With excellent facilities, extensive outdoor learning opportunities and a child-centred approach, we are proud of the outstanding experiences we provide for our youngest learners.
At Godstowe, we believe our staff are our greatest asset. We are committed to creating a supportive and collaborative working environment where colleagues are valued, encouraged to develop professionally and empowered to make a meaningful difference to children's lives.
About the Role and You
Contract type: Full-time, permanent, all year round
Salary: £35,000 – £50,000 per annum, dependent on qualifications and experience
Start date: Immediate Start Available
Reporting directly to the Headmaster, you will provide inspirational leadership across all aspects of the Nursery, ensuring the highest standards of care, education, safeguarding and operational excellence.
As Nursery Manager Your Key Responsibilities are:
- Lead and inspire a high-performing Nursery team, creating a positive, inclusive and collaborative culture.
- Deliver an outstanding Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum that supports every child's individual development.
- Ensure the highest standards of safeguarding, child welfare and pastoral care.
- Lead staff recruitment, induction, supervision, coaching and performance management.
- Build strong partnerships with parents, ensuring excellent communication and outstanding customer experience.
- Oversee the smooth day-to-day operation of the Nursery, maintaining compliance with EYFS, Ofsted, Health & Safety and all relevant statutory requirements.
- Manage Nursery budgets, resources, staffing ratios and Early Years funding.
- Monitor children's learning and development through effective observation and assessment.
- Work closely with the Pre-Prep team to ensure a seamless transition into Reception.
- Promote the Nursery within the local community and support admissions through open events and parent visits.
- · Drive continuous improvement, innovation and excellence across all areas of Nursery provision.
About You
We are looking for an experienced and inspirational leader who has:
- A full and relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification (or above).
- Significant experience working within an Early Years setting.
- Previous experience as a Nursery Manager, Deputy Nursery Manager or equivalent leadership role.
- Excellent knowledge of the EYFS Framework, safeguarding legislation and Ofsted requirements.
- Strong leadership, organisational and people management skills.
- Experience of managing staff performance, coaching and professional development.
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
- A genuine passion for providing exceptional Early Years education.
It would also be advantageous if you have:
- A Level 5 qualification in Leadership and Management or equivalent.
- Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) training.
- Paediatric First Aid qualification.
- Experience within an independent school or high-performing Nursery setting.
We are looking for someone who is:
- Passionate about giving children the very best start in life.
- An inspirational and supportive leader.
- Warm, approachable and professional.
- Highly organised and able to prioritise effectively.
- Calm under pressure and able to make sound decisions.
- Committed to safeguarding and promoting children's welfare.
- Positive, proactive and solution focused.
- Dedicated to continuous improvement and professional excellence.
Why Join Godstowe School?
Joining Godstowe means becoming part of a welcoming and ambitious school community that values its people as much as its pupils.
We offer:
- Competitive salary of £35,000–£50,000, dependent on experience.
- Company pension scheme.
- Company sick pay.
- Life Assurance (3x annual salary).
- Employee Assistance Programme and wellbeing support.
- Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
- Excellent opportunities for career progression.
- Complimentary lunches during the working day.
- Free on-site parking.
- A supportive, friendly and collaborative working environment.
- Beautiful school grounds and excellent facilities.
If you are an experienced Nursery leader who shares our passion for excellence in Early Years education and would like to play a defining role in the future success of our Nursery, we would be delighted to hear from you.
Apply today and help shape the first steps of every child's educational journey at Godstowe School.
Godstowe School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Applicants for ALL jobs will undergo appropriate child-protection screening including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check to enhanced level, costs are covered by the candidates. This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the Amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020.
Pay: £35,000.00-£50,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Free parking
- On-site parking
- Referral programme
- Sick pay
Education:
- A-Level or equivalent (preferred)
Experience:
- Nursery Management roles: 2 years (required)
Work Location: In person
