Nursery Manager – Large Outdoor Learning Setting

About the role

Join a well‑established early years provider as Nursery Manager for a flagship setting in Wickford, Essex. You will lead a thriving nursery of around 100 children, with plans to expand to 150, delivering an innovative, outdoor‑focused curriculum.

Key responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership and strategic development of the nursery.
• Manage a dedicated team of practitioners, ensuring high standards of care and education.
• Oversee compliance, safeguarding and continuous improvement processes.
• Drive the delivery of a curriculum that includes forest‑school, Montessori, nature‑based learning and creative arts.
• Support the expansion programme and maintain excellent work‑life balance with a four‑day week.

Required profile

• Proven experience as a Nursery or Early Years Manager.
• Passion for innovative, child‑led and outdoor learning approaches.
• Strong leadership and team‑building abilities.
• Commitment to safeguarding and regulatory standards.

Required skills

What we offer

• Permanent full‑time contract (four days per week, 7:30 am‑6:30 pm).
• Competitive salary £44,000‑£47,000 per annum.
• Opportunity to lead one of the region’s largest and most ambitious early years settings.
• Supportive environment focused on professional growth and innovative practice.