Finnegan's World
Nursery Manager - Part Time Job Share x 2
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Company Description
Finnegan's World is a warm, community-rooted independent business based in a beautifully converted former bank building in West Ealing, with a passionate local following. We're now preparing to launch our most exciting chapter: a new nursery serving West Ealing families.
We're looking for two experienced, qualified Nursery Managers to join us at the very start of this journey — helping us achieve Ofsted registration and build a nursery that reflects the same magic, warmth, and quality that Finnegan's World is known for.
The Role
This is a job share — two part-time Nursery Managers together covering the full week, Monday to Friday. Working closely with the business owner and each other, you will manage the full Ofsted registration process, develop our early years provision from scratch, build a team and a waiting list, and prepare for our first intake of children aged 2/3–5.
This is a unique opportunity for experienced early years professionals who want to build something — not just manage something that already exists.
Key Responsibilities
- Alongside the owner, lead and manage all aspects of the Ofsted registration process, including completion of EYO and EY2 applications and preparation for the registration inspection
- Develop, implement, and maintain all nursery policies, procedures, and risk assessments in line with the EYFS statutory framework
- Design and set up a stimulating, safe, and compliant learning environment for children aged 2/3–5
- Ensure full compliance with safeguarding, child protection, and health and safety legislation
- Build a team and a waiting list ahead of opening
- Recruit, induct, and support nursery staff in line with EYFS staffing ratios and qualification requirements
- Build and maintain positive relationships with families, carers, and the wider community
- Maintain accurate records for children, staff, and regulatory compliance
- Prepare the setting for Ofsted inspection and implement recommendations as required
- Embed a culture of continuous improvement, warmth, and outstanding early years practice
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Essential Requirements
- Full and relevant Level 3 qualification in Childcare and Education or equivalent
- Minimum 5 years' experience working in early years, including direct experience supervising staff and managing a small nursery
- Enhanced DBS check or willingness to apply
- Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) training, with a thorough and up-to-date knowledge of child protection legislation and procedures
- Strong working knowledge of the EYFS statutory framework and Ofsted inspection framework
- Level 2 maths qualification, or commitment to achieve within two years of appointment (statutory requirement for managers appointed from January 2024)
- Valid Paediatric First Aid certificate (or willingness to obtain prior to opening)
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Desirable
- Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for the Early Years sector or equivalent — strongly preferred
- Proven experience in a Nursery Manager role, with demonstrated ability to lead a setting
- Direct experience of a successful Ofsted inspection — registration experience particularly welcome
- SENCO qualification or working knowledge of the SENCO role
- Experience supporting children with SEND and working with families with additional needs
- Knowledge of government-funded childcare entitlements (15/30 hours schemes)
- Local knowledge of West Ealing and the surrounding community
What We Offer
- £38,000 pro rata
- Flexible part-time hours within a job share structure — Monday to Friday, pattern to be agreed
- The rare opportunity to build and shape a nursery from the ground up
- A warm, supportive, independent working environment
- The chance to be part of a genuinely loved local business at a pivotal moment in its growth
How to Apply
Please send your CV and a covering letter to info@finnegansworld.co.uk explaining your experience and why you'd like to be part of the Finnegan's World story.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.
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