Childcare Manager

We are seeking an experienced, passionate, and highly organized Childcare Manager to lead our team and ensure the highest standards of care and education. The successful candidate will be a proactive leader, ensuring the setting remains compliant, safe, and a nurturing environment for all children.,

• Leadership & Operations:
  Coordinate and oversee the daily operations of the setting. This includes planning and managing efficient staff rotas to ensure correct ratios and creating engaging learning schedules for children.
• Safeguarding & Welfare:
  Act as a lead for safeguarding, ensuring all staff understand and follow child protection policies. You will be responsible for maintaining a culture of vigilance and reporting.
• Educational Oversight:
  Track and monitor children's development using relevant frameworks (e.g. EYFS). You will ensure that observations are accurate and that every child is making progress toward their developmental milestones.
• Health & Safety:
  Conduct and approve rigorous risk assessments for the setting and outings. You will ensure that daily safety checks are completed meticulously every morning and afternoon.
• Regulatory Compliance:
  Maintain the setting to Ofsted (or relevant regulatory body) “Good” or “Outstanding” standards, ensuring all documentation, policies, and procedures are up to date.
• Staff Management:
  Mentor, supervise, and conduct appraisals for the staff team, fostering professional development and a positive working culture.
• Parent Partnership:
  Act as the main point of contact for parents, building strong relationships and providing regular updates on their child's wellbeing and progress.

• Minimum Level 3 qualification in Childcare/Early Years (Level 5 or a Degree in Early Years is highly preferred).
• Proven experience in a leadership or management role within a childcare setting.
• Advanced understanding of safeguarding legislation and procedures.
• Proficient in tracking developmental data and using childcare management software.
• Deep understanding of health and safety regulations, including the ability to draft and approve detailed risk assessments.
• Exceptional communication, time management, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.

• Pedagogical Leadership:
  Ability to lead the curriculum to ensure diverse and inclusive learning.
• Financial Literacy:
  Basic understanding of budget management and occupancy tracking.
• First Aid:
  Valid L3 Paediatric First Aid certificate/ relevant training can be provided.
• DBS:
  An enhanced DBS check is a mandatory requirement for this position.