Nursery Manager

Job Title: Nursery Manager

Location: Ilkeston, DE7, UK

Hours: Full Time

Contract Type: Permanent

Start Date: ASAP

Salary: £30,000 - £35,000 (Depending on experience)

About the Role:
Link3 Recruitment is seeking an experienced and passionate Nursery Manager to lead a dynamic team in Derbyshire. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a lasting impact on early childhood education while managing a high-performing nursery.

Key Responsibilities:

• ? Leadership & Team Development: Inspire, mentor, and support nursery staff to create a positive, collaborative environment. Oversee recruitment, staff training, and performance management to ensure a motivated and efficient team.
• ? Child Safety & Safeguarding: Act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), ensuring the highest standards of child protection. You’ll keep the team informed and compliant with safeguarding regulations through regular updates and training.
• Financial Oversight: Manage budget planning and financial performance, collaborating closely with the Director to drive profitability while maintaining cost-efficiency strategies.
• Curriculum Excellence: Ensure the delivery of a high-quality curriculum aligned with the EYFS framework. Regularly conduct mock Ofsted inspections to ensure the nursery is always prepared for regulatory assessments.
• ?? Operational Management: Oversee the smooth running of daily operations, including scheduling, resource allocation, and safety protocols. Implement marketing and outreach strategies to increase occupancy and enhance nursery visibility.
• Professional Development: Foster a culture of continuous learning by supporting staff through training and development, delegating tasks effectively, and encouraging growth within the team.
• Staff Coverage & Support: Develop and implement coverage plans for staff absences to ensure uninterrupted care. Be hands-on when necessary to support the team in the nursery.
• Administrative Excellence: Maintain meticulous records, uphold cleanliness and safety standards, and manage local council proposals, including headcounts and funding submissions.
• ??? Parent & Community Engagement: Build strong, trusting relationships with parents, guardians, and external partners. Keep them informed and engaged with regular communication and updates.
• Creating a Positive Environment: Promote a fun, nurturing atmosphere by organizing exciting activities and events that align with the EYFS framework, enriching the children’s learning experience.

Key Requirements:

• ? Proven experience in a leadership role within early childhood education, with a solid understanding of the EYFS framework and Ofsted requirements.
• Relevant childcare qualification (e.g., Level 3 Diploma in Childcare or equivalent). A management qualification or degree in Early Years Education is highly desirable.
• ? Extensive knowledge of safeguarding policies and experience as a Designated Safeguarding Lead.
• Strong financial acumen with the ability to manage budgets, track financial performance, and implement cost-saving initiatives.
• Excellent leadership, delegation, and team-building skills to foster a motivated, cohesive nursery staff.
• Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to handle day-to-day operations, maintain accurate records, and multitask effectively.
• ? Outstanding interpersonal skills to build positive relationships with staff, parents, and external stakeholders.
• A passion for delivering outstanding care, education, and operational management in a nursery setting.

• All applicants must undergo an enhanced DBS check (Child Workforce) prior to working if not already in possession of one that is registered to the update service. The cost of a DBS would be put forward to the applicant.

Link3 Recruitment is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

To apply, please send your CV detailing your relevant experience to