Cheltenham Nursery Manager, Gloucestershire

Salary: from £39,686 per annum plus bonus scheme
Hours: Full time, 40 hours per week
Contract: Permanent

Role Purpose

The Nursery Manager is responsible for the overall leadership, management and day‑to‑day running of the Cheltenham nursery. This role ensures high‑quality early years care and education in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), statutory requirements and company policies. The post holder will lead the team to deliver excellent outcomes for children, maintain safe and stimulating environments, and build strong partnerships with parents, carers and external stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Management

• Provide effective leadership, direction and support to the nursery team, promoting a positive culture and high standards of practice.

• Recruit, induct, supervise and appraise staff, ensuring the team are well‑trained, motivated and able to meet the needs of children.

• Manage staff rotas to maintain safe staffing ratios and continuity of care across the nursery.

• Lead regular team meetings, provide coaching and identify training and development needs.

• Implement and monitor nursery policies and procedures in line with statutory guidance and company expectations.

Curriculum and Quality of Care

• Ensure delivery of a high‑quality, inclusive curriculum in line with the EYFS that supports children’s learning, development and wellbeing.

• Oversee planning, assessment and the completion of records to ensure accurate tracking of children’s progress and effective next steps.

• Create and maintain a safe, welcoming and stimulating environment where children feel secure, valued and challenged.

• Promote inclusive practice and support additional needs in partnership with parents, carers and external agencies.

Safeguarding, Health and Safety

• Take overall responsibility for safeguarding and child protection within the nursery, ensuring the team follow procedures at all times.

• Ensure health and safety, risk assessments, accident reporting and maintenance are managed effectively and promptly.

• Ensure safe recruitment practices and that all staff have up‑to‑date checks and training, including an enhanced DBS.

Partnership with Parents, Carers and Community

• Build positive, professional relationships with parents and carers, promoting regular communication about children’s care and development.

• Lead on admissions, settling‑in processes and transitions to ensure continuity for children and families.

• Represent the nursery within the local community and with external partners to promote best outcomes for children.

Business and Operational Responsibilities

• Manage the nursery budget, resources and day‑to‑day finances in line with company procedures.

• Ensure statutory documentation, Ofsted requirements and reporting are maintained and up to date.

• Promote occupancy, support marketing activities and contribute to business development to maintain a sustainable setting.

Person Specification

Essential

• Level 3 or above qualification in Childcare / Early Years (or equivalent) plus evidence of continuous professional development.

• Proven experience of managing a nursery or leading an early years team.

• Thorough knowledge and practical understanding of the EYFS and Ofsted requirements.

• Strong leadership, communication and people management skills.

• Committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

• Enhanced DBS check (or willingness to undergo one).

Desirable

• Level 5 Diploma for the Early Years Senior Practitioner or Level 5 BA (Hons) in Early Childhood related field.

• Experience of budget management, setting improvement plans and working with external agencies.

• First Aid, Safeguarding or other relevant leadership training.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and are committed to equal opportunities. The successful candidate will be required to undergo appropriate checks, including an enhanced DBS.

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