Job Title: Nursery Manager
Location: Chorley, Lancashire
Position: Full-Time, Permanent
Salary: £30,000 - £35,000 per annum (dependent on experience)
Start Date: Flexible - ASAP up to 3 months' notice considered
We are a well-established, privately owned early years setting based in Chorley, offering high-quality childcare for up to 45 FTE children across two age-appropriate rooms (0-2 years and 2-4 years). Our nursery is proud of its warm, inclusive culture, strong relationships with families, and commitment to delivering outstanding care and education.
We are seeking an experienced and passionate Nursery Manager to lead our setting as part of a planned succession strategy and support the continued growth and development of the nursery.
About the Setting
Our culture is centred around people - both the children we care for and the staff who support them. We promote an open, honest, and supportive working environment where integrity, teamwork, and quality are paramount. Every role within the setting is valued, and everyone works collaboratively to achieve the best outcomes for children.
The owner is highly involved in the day-to-day operation, qualified in Early Years, and present on-site regularly, offering guidance, support, and hands-on leadership. This is not a remote or disengaged ownership model - you will be working closely with both the owner and existing management team.
The Role
This is an ideal opportunity for an established Nursery Manager, Deputy Manager, or senior early years professional ready to step into a leadership role within a small, supportive setting.
As Nursery Manager, you will take responsibility for the day-to-day operational leadership of the nursery while working in partnership with the owner to deliver the long-term vision. Due to the size of the setting, the role will include some hands-on, room-based support and modelling of best practice when required.
Key Responsibilities
Overall management of the nursery's day-to-day operations
Lead, motivate, and develop the staff team
Ensure high-quality practice in line with EYFS and safeguarding requirements
Maintain compliance with Ofsted, health & safety, and statutory frameworks
Support staff supervision, appraisals, and professional development
Build strong, trusting relationships with parents and external agencies
Drive continuous improvement and quality standards
Prepare for and lead Ofsted inspections
Requirements
Level 3 Early Years qualification (minimum)
Proven experience in a leadership/management role within an early years setting
Strong knowledge of EYFS, safeguarding, and Ofsted frameworks
Confident, approachable leadership style
Positive, solution-focused attitude
Passion for developing people and practice
What We Offer
Salary £30,000 - £35,000 depending on experience
Full-time, permanent position
Supportive, hands-on owner and collaborative working environment
Genuine opportunity to shape the future of the setting
Stable, financially sound nursery
If you are a committed and motivated Nursery Manager looking for a role where your voice is valued and your leadership can truly make a difference, we would love to hear from you.
To apply: Please submit your CV outlining your experience and interest in the role