Nursery Manager | South West London | Up to £47,000

Nursery Manager | Early Years | Up to £47,000

South West London | Full Time

The Role

We are seeking an experienced and passionate Nursery Manager to lead a well-established, early years setting in South West London. This is an exciting opportunity to oversee the day-to-day running of a unique nursery that offers children exceptional outdoor learning experiences in a spacious natural environment.

Working 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday, across 51 weeks of the year, you will lead a dedicated team to deliver outstanding care and education while maintaining the highest standards of safeguarding, compliance, and operational excellence.

Salary and Benefits

• Competitive salary of up to £47,000 DOE.
• Supportive and collaborative working environment.
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
• The chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and their families.
• Free daily lunch and refreshments.
• Ongoing guidance and support from an experienced leadership team.
• Cycle to Work scheme.
• Childcare discount.
• Flexible working arrangements where possible.
• Employee referral bonus scheme.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership and Management

• Lead the day-to-day management of the nursery, ensuring a safe, stimulating and nurturing environment.
• Inspire, motivate and develop the nursery team to deliver exceptional early years education and care.
• Manage recruitment, induction, appraisals and ongoing professional development.
• Promote a positive, inclusive workplace culture that supports collaboration and staff wellbeing.

Childcare and Curriculum

• Deliver and monitor a high-quality curriculum in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).
• Ensure activities are engaging, age-appropriate and tailored to individual learning and development needs.
• Champion inclusive practice and support children with a range of additional needs.
• Monitor children's progress and ensure accurate observations and assessments are maintained.

Compliance and Safeguarding

• Ensure full compliance with EYFS, safeguarding, health and safety, and all relevant statutory requirements.
• Conduct regular risk assessments and implement robust safety procedures.
• Maintain accurate records, including child files, attendance, accident reports and safeguarding documentation.
• Prepare for inspections and support continuous quality improvement.

Parent Partnerships

• Build positive relationships with parents and carers through open, professional communication.
• Provide regular updates on children's progress and wellbeing.
• Respond to parent queries and concerns with empathy and professionalism.
• Organise parent events and encourage strong community engagement.

Financial and Operational Management

• Manage nursery budgets and monitor expenditure.
• Ensure appropriate staffing levels and effective resource management.
• Oversee purchasing of equipment and supplies.
• Maintain accurate administrative records and support audits and inspections.

About the Setting:

• Medium-sized nursery setting.
• Located in South West London with free on-site parking and nearby public transport links.
• Open 51 weeks per year.
• 40-hour working week, Monday to Friday.
• A distinctive nursery environment with extensive outdoor learning opportunities, including large open green spaces and regular nature-based experiences.

Qualifications and Experience:

Essential

• Level 3 qualification (or above) in Early Years Education, Childcare or a related field.
• Previous experience in a leadership or management role within an early years setting.
• Strong knowledge of EYFS, safeguarding and current childcare legislation.

Key Skills

• Excellent leadership and people management skills.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Strong organisational and time management skills.
• Passion for delivering exceptional early years education.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and perform effectively under pressure.

Desirable

• Paediatric First Aid qualification.
• Experience managing budgets and financial performance.
• Additional training or qualifications in SEND, child development or related areas.

Location:

This role is based in South West London, with excellent road and public transport links. The nursery is easily accessible by car, with free on-site parking available, and is also served by local bus routes, making commuting straightforward from across the surrounding areas.

Commutable from: Richmond, Kingston upon Thames, Twickenham, Teddington, Wimbledon, Putney, Barnes, Sheen, Hounslow, Brentford, Surbiton and other areas across South West London and Surrey.

References:

Compass Associates is acting as a recruitment partner on this position. If this role isn’t right for you but you know someone who would be a great fit, we offer £500 in vouchers for every successful recommendation.

Contact Details:

If you’re interested in learning more, please contact Roberto on 023 9421 4486 or email [email protected].