Ratcliffe College is launching an exciting new nursery provision as an extension of our highly successful Preparatory School and Nursery (3+). We are seeking an inspirational Nursery Manager to be the founding leader of this new setting, responsible for establishing and shaping a high-quality nursery and preschool for boys and girls aged 6 months to 4 years.
This is a rare and unique opportunity to build a nursery within a leading independent school environment, embedding Ratcliffe’s core values from the very beginning and creating an exceptional early years' experience.
The Ideal Candidate:
- Thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
- Excels at team leadership and operational management.
- Is passionate about delivering exceptional care and inspiring learning opportunities for young children and their families.
- Is compliance focused and is able to produce
- EYFS policies in line with Ofsted and ISI regulations
In this role, you will play an integral part in shaping outstanding early years practice, managing staffing, curriculum delivery, safeguarding, and regulatory compliance. The successful candidate will be fully supported by the Prep School SMT and our dedicated central support teams in Finance, HR, and Health & Safety.
This is an all year round permanent, full-time position. The operating hours for the nursery will be 7.45am to 6.00pm. The post holder will be entitled to 33 days annual leave including bank holidays.
The salary for this role will be competitive and will be based on the successful candidate's experience and qualifications.
Person Specification
Essential
- Level 6 qualification in Early Years / Childcare.
- Level 2 Maths qualification (GCSE grade 4/C minimum)
- Strong knowledge of EYFS and Ofsted requirements.
- Considerable experience in a nursery or preschool setting.
- Excellent, proven, leadership, communication, and organisational skills.
- Proven experience in a senior role in an EYFS setting.
- Proven experience working with under twos and young children across the full early years age range.
- Paediatric First Aid (ongoing training will be provided)
Desirable
- Experience of working within an independent school or school-based nursery.
- Experience of setting up or developing a new early year's provision.
- Relevant staff and operational management experience.
These qualities will be assessed through application, references and during the interview process
Our Benefits
Set within 200 acres of beautiful Leicestershire countryside, Ratcliffe College offers more than just a place to work, it provides an inspiring environment where people can thrive, grow, and feel connected to what they do. Surrounded by green spaces and fresh air, our setting encourages wellbeing, collaboration, and a positive work-life balance from the moment you arrive.
We believe that a great place to work goes beyond the role itself. It’s about feeling valued, supported, and excited to be part of something meaningful. That’s why we are committed to creating an environment where our people can develop their skills, build lasting relationships, and enjoy coming to work every day.
• Outstanding Academic Results – Join a school ranked in the top 1% nationally for A-Level value-added results.
• Invest in Your Growth – Benefit from a strong and supportive culture of continuous professional development (CPD).
• Exceptional Daily Hospitality – Complimentary lunch and refreshments served every day.
• Onsite Health Support – Convenient access to onsite medical care.
• Fitness Facilities – Free use of our onsite gym and swimming pool (at selected times).
• Enhanced Family Support – Generous maternity and paternity leave packages.
• Fee Remission – Substantial fee reduction for children
Closing Date: 28th August
Interviews Week Beginning 7th September
For further information please see the full recruitment pack on our website.