Salary: £37,000–£41,000 FTE, pro rata for term-time working.
Actual salary: approximately £32,000–£36,000 per annum, depending on experience and final working weeks/hours.
About the role
Are you an enthusiastic, inspiring and experienced Early Years leader who would like to help shape a new nursery. Olivewood Nursery is looking for a Nursery Manager to lead our setting in this its exciting journey.
Olivewood Nursery is a new term-time nursery provision for children aged 3–5 years and is a project of the Glasgow Mena Trust. Our vision is to create a nurturing, inclusive and child-centred environment where children are supported to thrive through play, positive relationships and meaningful learning experiences.
Our approach brings together Scottish Early Years practice, a bilingual Arabic and English learning environment, cultural understanding and Montessori-inspired principles that encourage independence, curiosity and a love of learning.
As Nursery Manager, you will play a key role in establishing and developing the nursery, leading the staff team, supporting children and families, and ensuring high standards of care, learning and compliance.
What we offer
· The opportunity to lead and shape a new nursery from its opening phase.
· A role within an innovative, community-focused project.
· Support from a committed leadership and governance team.
· Professional learning and development opportunities.
· The chance to help develop a unique bilingual Arabic and English learning environment.
· The opportunity to embed Montessori-inspired approaches within daily practice.
· A term-time working pattern.
Essential criteria
· Eligible for registration with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) as a Manager of a Day Care of Children Service.
· BA Childhood Practice gained, or willingness to work towards this qualification.
· A qualification recognised by the SSSC for registration as a Nursery Manager.
· Experience of leading or managing an Early Learning and Childcare setting.
· Strong understanding of Care Inspectorate requirements and Scottish Early Years frameworks.
· Experience of supporting staff, children and families.
· Knowledge of safeguarding and child protection procedures.
· Excellent communication, organisational and leadership skills.
Desirable criteria
· Knowledge or experience of Montessori principles and practice.
· Experience within a bilingual or multilingual learning environment.
· Understanding of Arabic language, culture and heritage.
· Experience working with diverse communities and families.
· Experience supporting inclusive practice and children with Additional Support Needs (ASN).
About Olivewood Nursery
Olivewood Nursery is committed to providing high-quality Early Learning and Childcare for children aged 3–5 years. We value nurture, wellbeing, inclusion, cultural understanding and positive relationships.
We believe every child should feel safe, valued and inspired to learn. Through our bilingual Arabic and English approach, Montessori-inspired environment and strong partnerships with families, we aim to support children to become confident, capable and lifelong learners.
How to apply
To apply, please submit:
· An up-to-date CV.
· A covering letter outlining your suitability for the role and how your experience aligns with the vision and values of Olivewood Nursery.
Applications should be sent to: [email protected]
Please include “Nursery Manager Application” in the subject line of your email.
Closing date: 5th August 2026.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an interview and may be asked to complete a practical task or presentation as part of the selection process.
We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds who share our commitment to nurturing, inclusive and culturally responsive Early Years practice.
Olivewood Nursery is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Successful applicants will be subject to PVG membership, satisfactory references and all safer recruitment checks.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Pay: £37,000.00-£41,000.00 per year
Application question(s):
- Are you eligible to register with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) as a Manager of a Day Care of Children Service?
- Do you hold a BA Childhood Practice qualification, or are you willing to work towards it?
- Do you have experience leading or managing an Early Learning and Childcare setting?
Work Location: In person
