Step into a leadership role where you’ll shape the quality, culture, and future of a thriving nursery in Wimbledon. This is an opportunity to lead a dedicated team, drive outstanding standards of care and education, and ensure every child experiences a safe, nurturing, and inspiring early years environment.

About the Role:

As Nursery Manager, you will have overall responsibility for the day-to-day running of the nursery, ensuring high-quality provision in line with EYFS and Ofsted expectations. You will lead and develop the staff team, oversee operational and financial performance, and maintain a strong focus on safeguarding and child wellbeing. Your work will directly influence outcomes for children and families, as well as the reputation and success of the setting.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the daily operations of the nursery, ensuring smooth running across all rooms and services.
• Provide clear leadership, guidance, and support to staff, including supervision, performance management, and team meetings.
• Oversee and quality-assure the planning, delivery, and evaluation of the EYFS curriculum to meet the needs of all children.
• Ensure robust safeguarding and child protection practices are implemented and followed consistently across the nursery.
• Maintain compliance with all regulatory and Ofsted requirements, including policies, procedures, documentation, and audits.
• Manage occupancy levels, staffing rotas, and resource allocation to ensure efficient and effective provision.
• Monitor and control the nursery budget, fees, and financial processes to meet agreed financial targets.
• Build and sustain strong relationships with parents, carers, and external agencies, ensuring effective communication and partnership working.

Key Requirements:

• Proven experience in a Nursery Manager or senior leadership role within an early years setting.
• In-depth knowledge of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and its practical application.
• Strong understanding of safeguarding and child protection procedures, with the ability to lead practice.
• Demonstrated experience in staff leadership, supervision, and performance management.
• Experience managing nursery operations, including rotas, occupancy, and day-to-day administration.
• Track record of preparing for and contributing to successful Ofsted inspections.
• Competence in budgeting, financial management, and fee administration within a nursery or similar environment.
• Excellent organisational, communication, and decision-making skills.

Desirable Skills:

• Experience implementing quality improvement plans and driving continuous improvement in early years settings.
• Familiarity with digital systems for nursery management, record-keeping, and parent communication.
• Experience supporting children with additional needs and working with multi-agency professionals.
• Previous experience within a nursery in a similar community or Wimbledon/South West London area.

Qualifications:

• Level 3 (or above) Early Years qualification (e.g. NVQ, CACHE, or equivalent) – essential.
• Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) training – essential or willingness to complete upon appointment.
• Paediatric First Aid certification – essential or willingness to obtain promptly.
• Level 5 or above in Early Years/Childcare, Leadership and Management, or related field – desirable.
• Evidence of ongoing CPD in early years, safeguarding, and leadership – desirable.

If you are a motivated early years leader ready to take full ownership of a high-quality nursery, we’d like to hear from you. Apply now to lead a team committed to delivering outstanding care and education for children in Wimbledon.