Outdoor Nursery Manager

Outdoor Nursery Manager

Location: Hyde, Greater Manchester
Salary: Up to £36,000 per annum
Hours: Tuesday–Thursday 7:45am–6:00pm, Friday 7:45am–2:00pm
Working pattern: Term-time only (38–39 weeks per year)
Start date: January 2026

My client is an established outdoor nursery and forest school–inspired early years setting, offering high-quality provision for children aged 2–5 years. Set within a purpose-built outdoor learning environment surrounded by woodland, water, and natural play spaces, the setting places outdoor learning, child-led exploration, and holistic development at the heart of its ethos.

They are now seeking an experienced and passionate Outdoor Nursery Manager to lead the setting, inspire the team, and continue delivering outstanding early years education through nature-based practice.

The Role

This is a senior leadership role with full responsibility for the day-to-day management of the nursery. The successful candidate will act as Designated Safeguarding Lead, Deputy First Aid Lead, and Fire Safety Lead, working closely with the nursery owner to maintain quality, compliance, and sustainability.

Key responsibilities include:

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Overall leadership and operational management of the nursery

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Leading and developing a team of approximately 8 staff

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Ensuring high-quality delivery of EYFS through outdoor and experiential learning

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Managing occupancy levels, staff ratios, rotas, and daily operations

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Preparing for and managing Ofsted inspections (previous rating: Good)

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Maintaining compliance with safeguarding, health & safety, COSHH, and EHO standards

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Supporting staff supervision, appraisals, wellbeing, and training

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Managing funded hours, registrations, show rounds, and family communication

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Monitoring budgets, resources, and weekly operational costs

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Promoting an inclusive, child-centred environment with strong SEND practice

Person Specification

Essential:

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Level 3 Early Years qualification (or above)

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Minimum 6 years’ experience in early years education

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Proven team leadership or management experience

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Strong knowledge of EYFS and safeguarding

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Ability to lead outdoor learning in all weather conditions

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Confident communicator with parents, staff, and external agencies

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Enhanced DBS (or willingness to obtain and join the update service)

Desirable:

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Forest School qualification

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Montessori knowledge or experience

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Outdoor First Aid (training can be provided)

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Safeguarding Level 3 / DSL (training can be provided)

What’s on Offer

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Term-time only working pattern

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Strong work–life balance

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Supportive ownership and positive team culture

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Opportunity to lead a well-established outdoor provision

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Autonomy to innovate and shape practice

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Ongoing professional development