Preschool Manager – Term Time, Brentwood

About the role

Great Starts Recruitment is seeking an experienced Preschool Manager to lead a friendly early‑years setting in Ingrave, Brentwood. This permanent, term‑time‑only position offers Monday‑to‑Friday hours, school holidays off and one afternoon per week of remote work for planning and administration.

Key responsibilities

• Manage day‑to‑day operations of the preschool.
• Lead, motivate and support the early‑years team.
• Maintain high standards of childcare, teaching and learning.
• Ensure compliance with EYFS, Ofsted and safeguarding requirements.
• Oversee staff supervision, appraisals and performance management.
• Plan rotas, observations and maintain preschool records.
• Build positive relationships with parents, carers and external professionals.
• Provide a safe, inclusive and stimulating learning environment.

Required profile

• Full Level 3 Early Years qualification (or higher).
• Previous management or senior leadership experience in a nursery or preschool.
• Strong knowledge of the EYFS framework.
• Excellent understanding of safeguarding and Ofsted standards.
• Confident people‑management and leadership abilities.
• Enhanced DBS on the Update Service or willingness to obtain one.
• Genuine passion for early‑years education.

Required skills

What we offer

• £16.20 per hour (visible salary).
• 50 % nursery fee discount.
• Free nutritious lunch each working day.
• Free on‑site parking.
• Birthday day off and Christmas bonus.
• Paid sick leave after two years (up to five days).
• Loyalty leave – an extra day per year of service, up to five days.
• Team celebrations, awards night, summer BBQs and dinners.
• Continuous training and professional development.