Nursery Manager Location: Suffolk, IP28 8AA Working Hours: 41 hours per week (all year round) Tuesday: 8:00 17:00 Wednesday Thursday: 8:00 18:00 Friday: 6:45 18:00 (no Deputy on site) Salary: Starting from £43,000 - £45,000 per annum (depending on experience and qualifications) The Role This is not a standard nursery manager position. This role is designed for a strong, experienced leader who thrives in a large, fast-paced, and well-established nursery environment, with a clear focus on people leadership, quality of practice, and curriculum, rather than admin or commercial ownership. You will be joining a structured leadership team within a setting of 35 staff, contributing to an already established operation. Your focus will be on leading teams effectively, maintaining high standards across the EYFS, and embedding a strong, positive culture across the nursery. The setting offers: Five bright, engaging classrooms An out-of-school club for primary-aged children A designated forest school area Extensive outdoor learning spaces An indoor heated swimming pool A large, established team of 35 staff You will: Lead and support teams within a busy, large-scale nursery environment Drive high-quality EYFS practice and curriculum delivery Maintain strong staff engagement and a positive team culture Work collaboratively within an established leadership structure Champion safeguarding, wellbeing, and child-centred practice Support Ofsted readiness and continuous quality improvement Integrate effectively into an experienced and structured team Requirements Essential Minimum 2 years experience in a nursery leadership or management role Experience working in larger nursery settings (30 staff preferred) Strong knowledge and understanding of the EYFS Full and relevant Level 3 qualification (or above) in Early Years/Childcare Ability to lead teams effectively in a busy environment Strong organisational skills and professional approach Excellent communication and interpersonal skills Able to commute within 30 minutes of the setting Commitment to safeguarding and statutory guidance Strong safeguarding knowledge / DSL awareness Enhanced DBS check (required prior to appointment) Paediatric First Aid (12-hour), or willingness to obtain Desirable Experience supporting or preparing for Ofsted inspections Experience working in large-scale nursery environments Familiarity with nursery systems (e.g. Tapestry or similar) Exposure to forest school or outdoor learning approaches Whats in It For You Paid lunch break Free uniform NEST pension scheme Company events On-site parking Safeguarding Statement Our clients setting is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at all times and expects everybody working within their setting to share this commitment. Selection Process The successful candidate will be subject to reference checks and a face-to-face interview as part of the selection process. Whats next? Its easy! Click APPLY now! We cant wait to hear from you! Your data will be handled in line with GDPR.