Job Overview The role of Head of Nursery at Joint Colleges Nursery (JCN) offers an unusual opportunity to take a senior leadership role at a not-for-profit charitable trust, run for the benefit of its children and members. Duties The Head of Nursery is accountable to the Management Committee and responsible for the smooth running of all aspects of the business. The Management Committee is predominantly made up of current parents, and supports the Head of Nursery (the Head) to nurture an inclusive and ‘family-like’ culture, whilst making operational, financial and administrative decisions to ensure the enduring success of the nursery setting. The role requires a broad knowledge of childcare and development of children aged 0-5, and extensive experience of leadership and staff management to lead a team of practitioners, as well as being able to effectively represent the setting to the governing bodies. The Head of Nursery is an indirect childcare role and therefore not included in the child-staff ratio. However, in specific circumstances, the Head of the Nursery will manage groups of children to support staff and the daily routine. About you The role requires an individual who is- Passionate about early childhood education and innovative in approach Resilient, tenacious and steadfast in the face of challenges Diligent and dedicated And has- Strong leadership and management skills Excellent attention to detail and organisational skills Understanding of good customer service and key factors in delivering high quality care and learning for young children. Strong communication skills with children, parents, staff and external stakeholders Essential requirements Recognized qualifications in early years education (minimum Early Years Educator Level 3) and management. Proven experience in a leadership role within an early years setting (minimum of 3 years as Nursery Manager, Deputy or Third In Charge). In-depth knowledge of early years legislation, including in-depth knowledge of safeguarding and child protection with relevant training or certification. Comprehensive understanding of the EYFS and experience with Ofsted inspections or equivalent regulatory bodies. Strong skills in parent engagement and communication. Extensive experience in staff mentoring and career development. Basic IT skills specifically in Excel and PowerPoint. Desirable requirements Advanced qualifications in child care, education, or management. Experience as a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) or equivalent Experience and qualification in delivering STEM curriculum Benefits Working for an independent business, you will have the opportunity to utilise your knowledge and skills to the full. You will have the flexibility to bring in your management style and shape the provision in collaboration with the Management Committee. Holiday package 30 days plus Bank Holidays (starting with 25 days and for each year that you stay you will gain an extra day until you have reached 30 days) Opportunity to join the company pension scheme Training to enhance personal and professional development Free meals, tea and coffee Parking on site Cycle to work scheme Interest-free travel loan Salary range from £35,000 to £45,000 per annum Working hours 37.5 hours a week Mondays to Fridays. We are open all year except for the week between Christmas and New Year.