Nursery Manager

Job Description:

Nursery Manager
Location: Leicester, LE4 & LE7, UK
Hours: Full-Time
Contract: Permanent
Start Date: ASAP
Salary: £30,000 – £35,000 (Depending on experience)

About the Role

Link3 Recruitment is seeking dedicated, experienced, and inspiring Nursery Managers to support the leadership of thriving nurseries in Leicester. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in shaping a high-quality early year setting and driving excellence in practice, compliance, and staff development.

Key Responsibilities

-      Leadership & Team Development

• Lead, support, and motivate a dynamic nursery team.
• Oversee recruitment, staff training, supervisions, and performance management to maintain a positive and collaborative working environment.

-      Safeguarding & Child Protection

• Act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).
• Ensure robust safeguarding practices across the nursery, delivering ongoing training and keeping staff up to date on all policies and legislation.

-      Financial & Business Oversight

• Support budget planning, monitor financial performance, and implement cost-effective operational strategies.
• Work closely with the Operational Manager to maintain strong financial health and high occupancy.

-      Curriculum & Quality Assurance

• Ensure outstanding delivery of the EYFS curriculum.
• Conduct regular quality audits and mock Ofsted inspections to ensure the nursery is consistently prepared for regulatory visits.

-       Operational Management

• Oversee daily operations, including staff rotas, health and safety compliance, and resource planning.
• Contribute to marketing and community engagement initiatives to raise the nursery’s profile and support occupancy growth.

-      Staff Training & Development

• Promote continuous professional development by identifying training needs, supporting career progression, and empowering the team through effective delegation.
• Core training is provided through extensive CPD opportunities it would be desirable to have prior knowledge in Safeguarding Level 1 and 2, Paediatric First Aid, Level 2 Food Safety

-      Staff Coverage & Hands-On Support

• Implement reliable cover plans for staff absence.
• Step into the nursery rooms when required to ensure high-quality care is always maintained.

-      Administrative Excellence

• Maintain accurate records and documentation in line with statutory requirements.
• Manage admissions, administration, and fee collection efficiently and accurately.

-      Environment & Culture Building

• Champion a warm, nurturing, and enriching environment by leading engaging activities, events, and experiences aligned with the EYFS framework.

-      Parent & Community Partnerships

• Build strong, trusting relationships with parents and carers, ensuring consistent communication and exceptional customer service.

Key Requirements

• Proven leadership experience in an early year setting with in-depth knowledge of EYFS, Ofsted expectations, and best practice standards.
• Level 3 or above Early Years qualification (a management qualification or Early Years degree is highly desirable).
• Strong financial awareness and confidence managing budgets and operational costs.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and team-building skills.
• Excellent organisational ability, with strong attention to detail and the capacity to manage multiple priorities.
• A genuine passion for early years education and for creating safe, inspiring learning environments.

Safeguarding, Compliance & Right to Work

• Right to Work: All candidates will be required to demonstrate a valid Right to Work in the UK as part of our safeguarding and compliance checks.
• DBS: All applicants must undergo an enhanced DBS check (Child Workforce) prior to starting work, if not already in possession of one registered on the Update Service. The cost of a DBS will be covered by the applicant. The DBS must be subscribed to the update service.
• Safeguarding: Link3 Recruitment is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

How to Apply

Please send your CV outlining your relevant experience to:
heidi@link3recruitment