Overview
Job Title: Nursery Manager
Location: Orpington
Basic Salary: £38,000 - £42,000 per annum (depending on experience)
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
Schedule: Monday to Friday, all year round
Priority Recruitment are proud to represent this exciting opportunity for an experienced and passionate Nursery Manager to join a brand-new early years setting in Orpington.
This is a brilliant opportunity for a confident leader who loves working in a fast-paced, nurturing environment and wants to make a genuine difference in children’s early education. You’ll take ownership of the day-to-day running of the nursery - leading your team, driving quality standards, and ensuring every child has the best possible start in life.
What’s in it for you
* Competitive salary between £38,000 - £42,000 (DOE)
* Company pension
* Inset days for professional development with internal and external training providers
* Additional benefits after probation
* 22 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays
* Supportive, family-feel environment with strong values and clear career development
The role
As Nursery Manager, you’ll be responsible for leading a committed team to deliver an exceptional standard of childcare and education. You’ll ensure the nursery meets all Ofsted and EYFS requirements while maintaining a safe, fun, and inclusive environment for every child.
Responsibilities
* Leading and developing your staff team, including recruitment, induction, training, and ongoing support
* Overseeing daily operations - ensuring staffing ratios, rotas, and compliance are always met
* Acting as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and championing child protection across the setting
* Managing budgets, occupancy levels, and fee collection to keep the nursery financially healthy
* Maintaining accurate records in line with GDPR, health, and safety requirements
* Implementing and reviewing nursery policies and procedures to maintain high standards
* Leading the planning and delivery of the EYFS curriculum
* Building strong partnerships with parents, carers, and external agencies
* Supporting SEND and inclusion across the nursery, working closely with the SENDCo
* Driving continuous improvement through reflection, self-evaluation, and staff development
About you
* Level 3 qualification (or above) in Childcare / Early Years Education (essential)
* You’re a confident, positive leader who inspires and supports others
* Experience in nursery management - or ready to step up into your first lead role
* Strong understanding of EYFS, Ofsted, safeguarding, and early years best practice
* Organised, proactive, and calm under pressure
* Great communicator - able to build relationships with children, families, and your team
* A genuine passion for early years education, with a nurturing and inclusive approach
About the nursery
This brand-new setting is part of a growing, high-quality nursery group that puts children and staff at the heart of everything they do. They’re focused on creating a warm, family-like atmosphere, where love, care, and compassion are as important as learning and development.
Safeguarding Notice
All applicants will be subject to safeguarding checks in line with ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’. An enhanced DBS check (or subscription to the DBS Update Service) will be required before starting employment.
About Priority Recruitment
We’ve been matching great people with great places since 2012. With a 4.9/5 Google rating, our team are known for their honest, people-first approach.
Whether you’re ready for your next leadership challenge or looking for the perfect environment to grow, we’ll support you every step of the way.
How to apply
Sound like your next move?
Apply today - we’d love to hear from you!
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