Nursery Manager – Alnwick
Location: Alnwick, NorthumberlandHours: Full Time, 40 hours per week, all year roundSalary: Competitive, dependent on experienceResponsible to: Director and Nominated Individual
About Little Adventurers
At Little Adventurers, we believe childhood should be filled with curiosity, wonder and meaningful relationships. Our approach is underpinned by secure attachments, high-quality interactions and a knowledge-rich curriculum that enables every child to grow, explore and discover.
We are seeking an ambitious, passionate and values-led Nursery Manager to lead our exciting new nursery in Alnwick.
Purpose of the Role
To provide inspirational leadership and ensure the delivery of outstanding care and education for children aged 0–5 years. The Nursery Manager will oversee the day-to-day operations of the nursery, build a positive and high-performing team culture, drive occupancy growth, maintain compliance with all statutory requirements, and work in partnership with families and the local community.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership and Quality
- Lead, inspire and support the nursery team to deliver exceptional outcomes for children.
- Create a positive culture based on trust, accountability and continuous improvement.
- Ensure the curriculum reflects the Little Adventurers vision and values.
- Monitor the quality of teaching, learning and interactions through coaching and reflective practice.
- Lead regular supervision meetings, appraisals and professional development plans.
Safeguarding and Compliance
- Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead (or support the DSL structure within the setting).
- Ensure full compliance with EYFS, Ofsted, safeguarding, health and safety, food hygiene and employment legislation.
- Maintain accurate records, policies and procedures.
- Prepare for and lead inspections and external audits.
Operational Management
- Manage staffing, rotas and deployment to ensure high-quality provision and financial sustainability.
- Monitor occupancy levels and support marketing activities to grow the nursery.
- Oversee budgets, resources and purchasing within agreed parameters.
- Ensure the environment remains safe, welcoming and inspiring for children and families.
Partnership with Families and the Community
- Build strong relationships with parents, carers and external agencies.
- Represent Little Adventurers positively within the local community.
- Develop partnerships with schools, health professionals and local organisations to support children and families.
Person Specification
Essential
- Full and relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification (Level 5 or above desirable).
- Minimum two years’ experience in a leadership or management role within an early years setting.
- Thorough understanding of the EYFS, safeguarding and Ofsted requirements.
- Strong leadership, communication and organisational skills.
- Experience of leading, motivating and developing teams.
- Excellent partnership working with parents and professionals.
- Commitment to inclusive practice and supporting children with additional needs.
Desirable
- Experience opening or developing a new nursery provision.
- Designated Safeguarding Lead training.
- Paediatric First Aid qualification.
- Knowledge of attachment-informed and neuroscience-informed practice.
- Experience of managing budgets and occupancy growth.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and progression opportunities.
- Ongoing professional development and leadership coaching.
- Support from an experienced senior leadership team.
- Opportunities to shape and develop a brand-new nursery from the beginning.
- Company events and wellbeing initiatives.
- Discounted childcare.
- A culture that values innovation, relationships and high-quality interactions over paperwork and unnecessary activities.
At Little Adventurers, we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks, references and satisfactory pre-employment checks.
Pay: £30,000.00-£45,650.97 per year
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
