About the Role
We are looking for an inspiring and experienced Nursery Manager to lead a well-established nursery in Marchwood, Southampton. This is a fantastic opportunity for a motivated leader who is passionate about early years education and who can create a warm, nurturing, and stimulating environment for both children and staff.
What’s on Offer

• Competitive salary
• Holiday allowance aligned with contracted hours
• Staff childcare discount
• Flexible working opportunities where possible
• Paid training, qualifications, and CPD opportunities
• Regular team social events and seasonal celebrations
• Uniform provided
• Termly supervisions and appraisals
• Christmas savings scheme

• Lead, inspire and motivate a dedicated team with warmth and professionalism.
• Oversee the day-to-day running of the nursery, ensuring smooth, safe and efficient operations.
• Ensure compliance with the EYFS, safeguarding requirements, and statutory frameworks.
• Maintain inspection readiness and confidently lead Ofsted preparation.
• Champion a play-based, child-led curriculum that supports holistic development.
• Build strong, supportive relationships with parents and the local community.
• Promote safeguarding and wellbeing across the nursery, ensuring all policies are followed.
• Recruit, support, and retain a strong and caring team, encouraging reflective practice and professional growth.
• Manage rotas, staffing levels, payroll hours, and maintain accurate records, policies, and procedures.
• Collaborate with nursery leadership on strategy, planning, and development.

• Minimum Level 3 Full and Relevant Early Years Qualification (Level 5 or above desirable).
• Good standard of English and Maths (GCSE A–C or equivalent).
• At least two years’ experience working in an early years setting, including experience as a Nursery Manager.
• Strong understanding of the EYFS, safeguarding, and early years best practice.
• Excellent communication skills with staff, parents, and external agencies.
• Calm, caring, reliable, and flexible approach.
• Paediatric First Aid, Designated Safeguarding Lead, and Food Hygiene (desirable).
• Current DBS on the update service (or willing to obtain).