Compass Associates
Nursery Manager
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Founding Nursery Manager
Salary: £45,000–£50,000 (DOE)
Location: Newcastle upon Tyne
A rare opportunity to build something exceptional
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced and ambitious early years leader to establish and lead a brand-new, premium nursery from the ground up.
This is far more than a Nursery Manager position. As the Founding Nursery Manager, you'll play a key role in creating an outstanding nursery, shaping its vision, culture, curriculum and reputation from day one. Working closely with senior leadership, you'll help prepare the setting for opening, support Ofsted registration and create an exceptional environment where children, families and colleagues can thrive.
The Role
You'll be responsible for:
- Leading the development of a high-quality nursery for children from babies through to pre-school.
- Preparing the nursery for successful Ofsted registration.
- Recruiting, developing and inspiring a high-performing team.
- Designing an ambitious curriculum based on EYFS best practice.
- Building strong partnerships with families and the wider community.
- Embedding excellent safeguarding, compliance and operational standards.
- Supporting occupancy growth through an exceptional parent experience.
- Creating a nurturing environment where children develop confidence, curiosity and a lifelong love of learning.
About You
We're looking for a passionate and experienced early years professional who can combine inspirational leadership with strong operational management.
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You'll ideally have:
- A minimum Level 3 Early Years qualification (or an equivalent full and relevant qualification).
- Significant leadership experience within an early years setting.
- Excellent knowledge of the EYFS framework.
- Experience working with Ofsted and maintaining high standards of quality and compliance.
- Outstanding leadership, organisational and communication skills.
- A genuine commitment to delivering exceptional outcomes for children and families.
Experience opening a new nursery, leading change or supporting Ofsted registration would be advantageous but is not essential.
What's on Offer:
- Salary of £45,000–£50,000 depending on experience.
- Pension and life assurance.
- Optional healthcare scheme.
- Ongoing professional development.
- Bike to Work scheme.
- Interest-free travel loan.
- Staff wellbeing initiatives and social events.
- Free meals during term time.
- The opportunity to create and shape a brand-new nursery with the support of an established and respected education provider.
If you're an ambitious nursery leader looking for the opportunity to build something truly special and leave a lasting legacy, we'd love to hear from you.
Please submit your CV together with a covering letter outlining your suitability for the role. Early applications are encouraged as interviews may be held before the closing date.
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Location
Located in Newcastle, with excellent transport links via the A1, A19 and the city's comprehensive public transport network, providing easy access across Tyne and Wear, Northumberland, County Durham and the wider North East.
Newcastle Central Station offers regular rail services nationwide, while Newcastle International Airport is within easy reach for domestic and international travel.
Residents benefit from a vibrant city centre, renowned shopping destinations, a thriving restaurant scene, cultural attractions, excellent schools and universities, alongside extensive parks and green spaces, offering an outstanding quality of life.
References
Compass Associates is acting as a recruitment partner on this position. If this role isn't right for you but you know someone who would be a great fit, we offer £500 in vouchers for every successful recommendation.
Contact Details
If you're interested in learning more, please contact Roberto on 023 9421 4486 or email ramos@compassltd.co.uk.
This organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to appropriate pre-employment and safeguarding checks. We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.
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