Nursery Manager

The Education Network Durham are working on behalf of one of our Nursery partners who are looking to employ a permanent Nursery Manager for their nursery based in Thornaby.

The Role:
This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate and experienced early years leader who combines warmth, emotional intelligence and excellent organisational skills.
You will lead a committed team, shape the culture of the nursery and ensure children receive outstanding care and learning experiences every day.

This role would suit someone who:
Leads with kindness, clarity and professionalism
Is passionate about child development and early years education
Believes deeply in outdoor learning and play-based practice
Can inspire, support and develop a team
Wants to make a meaningful difference within a local community
Is excited by the opportunity to help shape and grow a nursery as part of a supportive wider group

Key Responsibilities:
Lead the day-to-day operation of the nursery
Create a safe, nurturing and inspiring environment for children and staff
Ensure full compliance with EYFS, safeguarding and Ofsted requirements
Support, mentor and develop the nursery team
Build strong relationships with children, families and the wider community
Drive continuous improvement in quality and practice
Support occupancy growth and family engagement
Work collaboratively with the wider leadership team across all four Barn nurseries
Promote a positive, welcoming and values-led culture

Requirements:
Hold a relevant Level 3 qualification as a minimum (Level 5, 6 or 7 desirable)
Have previous leadership or management experience within an early years setting
Have strong knowledge of the EYFS, safeguarding and Ofsted requirements
Are confident leading teams and supporting staff development
Are organised, proactive and solutions-focused
Have excellent communication and relationship-building skills
Enjoy outdoor learning and child-led practice
Bring warmth, positivity and a genuine passion for improving children’s lives

What the nursery are offering you:
40 hour working week, Monday to Friday initially.After 6 months, the option to spread this over 4 days is available.
Competitive Salary - depending on experience
A chance to make a real difference every single day
A genuinely supportive and approachable leadership team
A warm, family-like culture where your voice matters
Ongoing professional development and clear progression opportunities
The opportunity to shape and influence the future direction of the nursery
Company pension scheme
Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) — confidential support for your health and wellbeing
Blue Light Card eligibility — access to thousands of discounts with national retailers
Employee discount on childcare
Casual dress
Regular company events across all four nurseries

The role is to start as soon as possible.

All appointments are subject to:
Enhanced DBS check
Satisfactory references
Right to work in the UK


The Education Network Durham are also recruiting for full time and part time teaching positions across the North East so we can be as flexible as you require, whether you are looking for short term work to work around other commitments or long term full time positions, we have something for everyone!
Registration appointments available immediately.
The Education Network is committed to Safer Recruitment and recruits to Compliance+
The Education Network Offer:
Join an Award-Winning Recruitment Agency!
We're proud to announce that The Education Network has been crowned Best Recruitment Business in the region at the England Business Awards 2025!
This award is a testament to our dedication to supporting schools, educators, and communities across the North East. When you work with us, you're not just joining a recruitment agency-you're partnering with a trusted, ethical, industry-leading team that truly cares.
Our specialist team boasts extensive combined experience and an unrivalled reputation within the education sector. We take great pride in delivering consistently high service levels to both schools and candidates. Our approach is honest, efficient, and designed to offer a recruitment solution tailored to your needs. Additionally, we provide opportunities for further training and development to enhance your career.
You will work in a friendly, caring, and supportive environment where every child matters. Our highly committed and hardworking consultants will strive to find roles that suit your professional aspirations. We also offer excellent rates of pay and ongoing opportunities for professional growth.
The Education Network is dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to our comprehensive vetting procedures, including enhanced DBS checks and references. We adhere to Safer Recruitment practices and maintain the highest standards of compliance.
We are an equal opportunities employer, and The Education Network operates as a recruitment agency for this role. Due to the high volume of applications, we will contact shortlisted candidates within three days.
Data Privacy and Processing
By applying for this role, you are agreeing for The Education Network to process and store your personal data, including your CV and application form, for the purposes of recruitment. The Education Network is committed to protecting your privacy and handling your data in accordance with GDPR. Your information will be kept securely and will not be shared with third parties without your consent. We will retain your data for up to 24 months unless you request us to delete it earlier. You have the right to request access to, amend, or delete your data at any time by contacting us at Neville.wood@ednetwork.co.uk For more information, please review our privacy policy at; https://www.theeducationnetwork.co.uk/legal/privacy/