Nursery Manager

Location: Colchester, Essex

Salary: -30,000 - -45,000 per annum (depending on experience)

Contract: Permanent, Full-Time

Start Date: ASAP

Nursery Manager - Colchester

VNA Education is delighted to be recruiting on behalf of a well-established and nurturing nursery in Colchester for an experienced and passionate Nursery Manager.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a dedicated early years professional to lead a committed team, drive high standards of care and education, and make a lasting impact on children''s development during their formative years.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the day-to-day operations of the nursery, ensuring the highest standards of care, safeguarding, and education.
• Manage, motivate, and develop nursery staff through effective leadership and performance management.
• Ensure full compliance with EYFS, Ofsted, safeguarding, health & safety, and all relevant statutory requirements.
• Maintain strong partnerships with parents, carers, and external agencies.
• Oversee occupancy levels, admissions, and nursery growth initiatives.
• Monitor budgets, staffing ratios, and operational targets.
• Prepare for and manage Ofsted inspections.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and stimulating environment for children, families, and staff.

Requirements

• Previous experience as a Nursery Manager, Deputy Nursery Manager, or Senior Nursery Leader.
• Relevant Early Years qualification (Level 3 minimum, Level 5 or above desirable).
• Strong working knowledge of the EYFS Framework and Ofsted requirements.
• Proven leadership and team management experience.
• Excellent communication and organisational skills.
• Enhanced DBS on the Update Service or willingness to obtain one.
• A genuine passion for early years education and child development.

Benefits

• Competitive salary of -30,000 - -45,000 per annum.
• Permanent, full-time position.
• Supportive and welcoming working environment.
• Ongoing professional development and training.
• Career progression opportunities.
• Pension scheme.
• Generous annual leave entitlement.

If you are an ambitious early years professional looking to take the next step in your management career, we would love to hear from you.

Apply today or contact VNA Education for a confidential discussion