Nursery Manager

Nursery Manager - Big Ideas for Little People!

Location: Portsmouth
Salary: Circa £38,000-£40,000 depending on experience + performance-related bonus
Hours: Full-time

Big Curiosity. Big personalities. A team looking for someone who brings out their best.

You know that a brilliant nursery takes more than colourful displays and a well-stocked craft cupboard. It takes a leader who builds confidence, sets high standards and makes everyone feel they belong.

Someone who can move from a parent conversation to a team coaching moment, keep an eye on the numbers and still find time to admire a very impressive stick.

Sound like you? We’d love to talk.

Your next chapter

We’re recruiting an experienced Early Years leader to take the reins at an established nursery in Portsmouth.

With a committed team and strong connections to local families, there’s plenty to build on. Now comes the opportunity to bring fresh ideas, strengthen practice and help shape what happens next.

You’ll have room to make your mark, alongside training, mentoring and support to develop your own career.

Nursery Manager - What will you get stuck into?

• Lead with personality and purpose. Coach, support and develop your team, helping people feel confident, valued and proud of their work.
• Make quality part of every day. Keep care, learning and safeguarding at the heart of the nursery, with strong EYFS practice throughout.
• Build parents’ confidence. Create welcoming, honest relationships with families, from that first visit to the big move to school.
• Keep the nursery running smoothly. Take ownership of staffing, budgets and resources, balancing excellent care with a well-managed setting.
• Turn ideas into improvements. Recognise what’s working, tackle what needs attention and bring your team along with you.

Nursery Manager - A little about you:

You’ll bring:

• A Level 3 or above qualification in Early Years/Childcare.
• Proven leadership experience within an early years setting.
• A strong understanding of EYFS, safeguarding and Ofsted requirements.
• The confidence to manage people, have constructive conversations and lead positive change.
• An organised approach, an approachable manner and a real commitment to giving children the best start.

You take your responsibilities seriously - and know there’s still room for laughter along the way.

Nursery Manager - What’s in it for you?

Alongside your salary and performance-related bonus, you’ll benefit from:

• Leadership mentoring, structured training and opportunities to progress.
• Annual leave plus bank holidays and additional leave benefits.
• Pension and life assurance.
• Funded DBS Update Service.
• Access to health and wellbeing support, including digital GP and counselling services.
• Recognition for your contribution and long service.

Ready to lead somewhere you can make a difference?

If you’re looking for a nursery where your ideas, experience and energy can help shape its future, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply with your CV or get in touch for a confidential conversation

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