Location: Stevenage
Salary: £36,000-£40,000
Hours: 40-45 per week
Contract Type: Permanent

Are you an experienced early years leader with a passion for high-quality education and inspiring teams to be their very best?

We are seeking a dedicated and forward-thinking Nursery Manager to lead our 40-place setting. This is an exciting opportunity to shape a nurturing, ambitious environment where children are supported to grow, explore and thrive during the most important stage of their development.

About the Setting

Our nursery is a welcoming, community-focused environment where children learn through play, meaningful interactions and carefully planned experiences. We are committed to delivering exceptional early years education that supports every child’s individual journey.

The Role:

As Nursery Manager, you will lead with vision and heart, shaping an inspiring environment where children are truly supported to grow, explore and thrive. You will oversee the day-to-day running of the setting while empowering a passionate team to deliver exceptional early years education rooted in the EYFS.

Guided by our Foundations to Flourish curriculum, you will champion a pedagogy that values curiosity, connection and meaningful interactions. Through our core principles nurturing relationships, rich environments, reflective practice and high-quality teaching — you will create a culture where every child’s individuality is celebrated and every educator understands the powerful role they play.

Embracing the unique opportunities of beautiful green space around us, you will ensure children experience real-world learning, awe and wonder, and the freedom to explore nature as part of their everyday development, laying strong foundations for them to truly flourish.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and inspire a team of early years practitioners.
• Ensure the highest standards of care, safety, and learning outcomes for all children.
• Build a strong ethos around outdoor learning, sustainability, and animal care.
• Manage occupancy, staffing, resources, and budgets efficiently.
• Develop and maintain excellent relationships with families and the wider rural community.
• Ensure compliance with Ofsted, EYFS, safeguarding, and health & safety regulations.

Essential Requirements:

• Minimum Level 3 in Early Years Education (Level 5 or higher preferred).
• At least 2 years in a management role within an early years setting.
• A strong understanding of the EYFS framework and outdoor learning approaches.
• A genuine passion for nature-based education, animals, and the countryside.
• Confident leadership skills with a nurturing, hands-on approach.

Desirable:

• Paediatric First Aid qualification.
• Leadership experience within Early Years Education.
• Knowledge of eco-education or sustainability practices in early years.

What We Offer:

• Opportunities for professional growth and training in outdoor education.
• Competitive salary and holiday allowance.
• Discounts on childcare (where applicable).
• A chance to make a real difference in a setting that values creativity, freedom, and connection with the natural world.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All applicants will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and references.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• Childcare
• Discounted or free food
• Employee discount
• On-site parking