Nursery Manager – Up to £45,000

About the role

Great Starts Recruitment is seeking an experienced Nursery Manager to lead a thriving 100‑place early‑years setting in Wickford, Essex, as it expands to accommodate up to 130 children. This permanent, full‑time role offers the chance to shape the next stage of growth while maintaining the highest standards of care and education.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee the nursery’s day‑to‑day operations and prepare for expansion.
• Lead, motivate and develop a large early‑years team.
• Maintain outstanding standards of childcare, education and safeguarding.
• Ensure compliance with the EYFS, Ofsted and all relevant legislation.
• Manage recruitment, staff deployment, supervision and performance.
• Oversee occupancy, enrolment and parent engagement.
• Control budgets, resources and operational targets.
• Maintain accurate records, policies and procedures.
• Build strong relationships with families and external professionals.

Required profile

• Full Level 3 Early Years qualification or higher.
• Significant experience as a Nursery Manager or senior early‑years leader.
• Proven track record managing a large or busy nursery setting.
• Strong knowledge of EYFS, safeguarding and Ofsted requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to lead, develop and retain a successful team.
• Commercial awareness and experience supporting nursery occupancy.
• Enhanced DBS on the Update Service or willingness to obtain one.
• Genuine passion for delivering outstanding early‑years education.

Required skills

• In‑depth understanding of the EYFS framework.
• Expertise in safeguarding policies and Ofsted inspection processes.
• Operational, organisational and people‑management capabilities.

What we offer

• Salary up to £45,000 per annum.
• 50% nursery fee discount.
• Free nutritious lunch every 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 and a supportive work environment.