We have an exciting opportunity for a Pre-school Manager to lead our highly experienced team.

This role will be available from the beginning of June 2026 but the final start date will be subject to the completion of statisfactory checks and references so applications are welcome from candidates who may not be able to start before september 2026

Caterpillars is a term time only preschool. We are open for 38 weeks a year. Monday to Thursday between 9am-2:45pm and on Fridays between 9am-1pm.

About you

As the manager, you will have a passion for childcare and early years education. You will build meaningful relationships with the team, our families and our Early Years partners. You must have excellent communication skills and be able to demonstrate Caterpillars values.  This is a fantastic opportunity to develop your skills in a friendly and creative environment. We are looking for an individual who has a positive, proactive attitude and who is both self-motivated and able to motivate others.

In this role, you will spend the majority of the time working in the playrooms with the children and will be allocated a small number of Key children. There will be additional time allocated for the completion of management administrative duties.

We are looking for a qualified practitioner (minimum Level 3 full and relevant childcare qualification) with a minimum of 3 years post qualification experience.

Previous management experience is desirable, but not essential as this role will be supported by our Executive Manager based at our sister setting in Birch and our Management Committee.

Key Responsibilities

• Understand and ensure the requirements of the statutory framework for the EYFS are met throughout the preschool
• Promote positive relations with an approachable manner and time to listen and support your team.
• Promote a culture of self-evaluation and reflective practice throughout the preschool
• Ensure that Preschool policies and procedures are embedded, applied and adhered to by all.

Hours & Salary

The hours for this post will be as follows

Monday, Tuesday  – 8:15-3pm.

Wednesday – 8:15 – 4pm (including a weekly team meeting from 3pm-4pm)

Thursday – 8:15-3pm (includes a weekly management meeting with the manager from our sister setting in Birch between 2pm-3pm which is held locally off site)

Friday – 3.5 hrs management

 The Salary for this post will be between £19,500-£22,000 per year, depending on age and experience.

This includes 5.6 weeks holiday pay.  You will also receive additional pay each month for completion of learning journeys for any key children you have responsibility for and 2 additional non pupil days in September and July. 

Key Requirements of the Role

Level 3 qualification in childcare (full & relevant)

Level 2 (GCSE or equivalent) English and Maths qualification. 

An enhanced DBS certificate registered on the Update service

Confirmation of eligibility to work in the UK (where required)

SENCO qualification (desirable but not essential)

Benefits

• Uniform
• Paid day off for your birthday
• Pension
• 50% of childcare costs if your child attends Caterpillars
• Ongoing training including first aid and safeguarding