Nursery Manager

Job Vacancy

Nursery Manager, [Employer hidden — view at passion-project.co.uk]

We are seeking an experienced Nursery Manager to lead our Nursery Team. Ideally the candidate will have experience in setting up a Nursery, as this role will be to set up a full time Nursery provision with the support of the SLT in the school and wider Estate. The role is perfect for someone looking for a new challenge who wants to lead the creation of an outstanding nursery provision within a supportive environment.

You must have the Right to Work in the UK. Sponsorship is not available for this role.

To Apply

Fill out our application form online to submit your application

wellington.co.uk/jobs

Contact Us

+44 (0) 1256 882694

wellington.co.uk

The Estate Office

Stratfield Saye

Hampshire

RG7 2BT

Excellent staff discounts are available across all Wellington Estate businesses including Wellington Country Park, Wellington Farm Shop, Wellington Riding, The Barns at Wellington, The Iron Duke, Wellington Arms Hotel & Bruce’s Doggy Daycare.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Recruit, induct, and manage staff in line with safer recruitment practices
• Provide strong, visible leadership to the nursery team
• Ensure effective staff deployment, rotas, and ratio compliance
• Act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
• Ensure full compliance with EYFS, Ofsted, and statutory guidance
• Ensure safeguarding, health and safety, and welfare standards are consistently met
• Ensure high-quality teaching, learning, and care across the nursery
• Monitor and improve practice within all rooms
• Support children’s learning, development, and wellbeing
• Oversee observation, assessment, and planning processes
• Support children with additional needs and early intervention where required
• Overall responsibility for operational and financial management.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with parents and carers. Manage enquiries, complaints, and feedback professionally
• Support marketing activity including open days and nursery tours
• Work collaboratively with the wider school and estate team
• Contribute to the nursery’s strategic planning and growth
• Support transitions into school where applicable
• Promote the nursery’s values, ethos, and reputation
• Identify opportunities to improve quality, efficiency, and occupancy

QUALIFICATIONS

Essential

• Level 3 childcare qualification (minimum)
• At least 2 years’ experience in a nursery leadership or management role
• Strong working knowledge of EYFS and Ofsted frameworks
• Proven experience managing and leading staff
• Excellent safeguarding knowledge and understanding

Desirable

• Level 5 or above qualification in Early Years Leadership or Management
• Experience opening, expanding, or growing a nursery
• Experience managing budgets or financial targets
• SENCO experience or training

OUR ETHOS

We are characterised by the quality of relationships, a strong sense of mutual support and kindness. There is a centrally held ambition for the happy and adventurous learning of the children.

WORKING AT WELLESLEY

We promote equality of opportunity regardless of gender, race or ability.

Immediately responsible to: Managing Director

Hours of work: 8am – 6pm Monday - Friday

Full-time

Commencement Date: 1st April 2026

Notice Period: 3 months

ABOUT WELLESLEY

Salary: Depending on experience

On-site parking

Discounts across the Wellington Estates’ businesses, including the Wellington Farm Shop, Wellington Country Park, Wellington Riding, The Barns at Wellington, The Iron Duke, Wellington Arms Hotel & Bruce’s Doggy Daycare

NURSERY

We are set on the Wellesley Prep site, a unique co-educational school set in 100 acres of beautiful Hampshire countryside, with 300 children up to Year 8.

NURSERY AIMS

• Encourage kindness above all else
• Develop children’s problem-solving skills and attitudes
• Provide a safe environment for children to take creative risks in their learning without undue fear of failure
• Encourage an enduring sense of curiosity and wonder through a meaningful curriculum and a strong emphasis on the outdoors
• Promote mental and physical fitness
• Explore each child’s strengths and support their weaknesses through thoughtful differentiation

THE ESTATE

The 1st Duke of Wellington returned to Britain and was treated as a hero after his final victory at the Battle of Waterloo. He was formally honoured and presented the Estate in Hampshire, England in 1815. [Employer hidden] is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with current and previous employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).

The centre of the Estate today is Stratfield Saye House, where the 1st Duke lived from 1817. To this day, it is still the private home of the 9th Duke of Wellington.

Now, over 200 years later, there is a portfolio of different businesses and activities on the Estate including; Wellington Country Park, Wellington Farm Shop, Wellington Riding, The Barns at Wellington and Wellesley Prep School.

NOTE

This Job Description gives a basic outline of the role and is not exhaustive in its scope. Any role at the Nursery can develop over time as appropriate. This Job Description is not contractual and therefore subject to change.