Nursery Manager - Sunderland

Nursery Manager – Sunderland

We are seeking an experienced, enthusiastic, and highly motivated Nursery Manager to lead a welcoming and supportive Early Years setting in Sunderland. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Early Years leader who is passionate about delivering high-quality childcare and education while creating a positive environment where children and staff can thrive.

The setting is committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where children are encouraged to develop confidence, independence, and a love of learning. Staff work collaboratively to deliver high-quality Early Years provision in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), with children's wellbeing, development, and individual needs at the heart of everything they do.

As Nursery Manager, you will take responsibility for the day-to-day leadership and management of the setting, providing clear direction and support to the Early Years team. You will promote a positive working culture, maintain high standards of care and education, and ensure the nursery continues to provide an exceptional experience for children and families.

This is a full-time role, with flexibility required around working hours between 07:30 and 18:00 to meet the operational needs of the nursery.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the day-to-day management and operation of the nursery.
• Provide strong, positive, and supportive leadership to the Early Years team.
• Ensure high standards of care, education, and safeguarding are maintained throughout the setting.
• Lead and develop high-quality Early Years provision in line with the EYFS framework.
• Support, motivate, and develop staff through effective supervision, coaching, and performance management.
• Maintain appropriate staffing levels and ensure ratios are met at all times.
• Build strong and professional relationships with children, parents, carers, and colleagues.
• Monitor children's progress and ensure high-quality observation, assessment, and planning practices are embedded throughout the nursery.
• Support recruitment, induction, and ongoing professional development of nursery staff.
• Ensure the setting remains compliant with Ofsted requirements, safeguarding procedures, and relevant Early Years legislation.
• Promote a positive, proactive, and solution-focused culture throughout the nursery.
• Manage challenges confidently and demonstrate a positive can-do attitude when responding to the needs of children, families, and staff.

Essential Criteria

• Previous experience at a minimum of Deputy Manager level within an Early Years setting – essential.
• Strong knowledge and understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).
• A strong understanding of Ofsted requirements and Early Years legislation.
• Proven leadership and staff management experience.
• Excellent communication, organisation, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong decision-making and problem-solving abilities.
• A positive, proactive, and can-do attitude.
• The ability to motivate, support, and develop a team.
• Flexibility to work full-time hours within the nursery's operating hours of 07:30–18:00.
• A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

Preferred Criteria

• Previous experience working as a Nursery Manager.
• A recognised Level 3 or higher qualification in Early Years or Childcare.
• Experience supporting a nursery through an Ofsted inspection.
• Experience managing staffing, ratios, and nursery operations.
• A proven track record of developing and improving Early Years provision.
• Experience mentoring and developing Early Years practitioners and future leaders.

This role would suit an experienced Deputy Nursery Manager looking to progress into a Nursery Manager position or an established Nursery Manager seeking their next leadership opportunity. The successful candidate will bring a positive can-do attitude, strong leadership skills, and a genuine passion for Early Years education, creating an environment where children receive outstanding care and staff feel supported to achieve their best.

Why Work with Education World?

• REC Audited Education Status – Recognised for the highest recruitment standards
• Weekly Pay – Paid every Friday, always on time
• PAYE Only – No umbrella companies or hidden fees
• Free CPD Opportunities – Access to professional development
• Rated 4.9 on Trustpilot – Trusted by hundreds of education professionals
• Dedicated Consultants – Local knowledge and ongoing support
• Candidate-First Approach – Your availability, preferences, and wellbeing always come first
• Referral Bonus – Recommend a friend and earn uncapped rewards (T&Cs apply)

Safeguarding & Equal Opportunities

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and candidates to share this commitment. All successful applicants will be subject to appropriate safeguarding and compliance checks in line with regulatory requirements and the REC Code of Professional Practice.

Education World is proud to be an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified individuals, regardless of age, gender, race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.