Preschool Manager

Stockland and Yarcombe Preschool is a welcoming, rural setting based in the glorious East Devon countryside. We have been successfully running for over 40 years and hold the children s best interests at the heart of everything we do.

Our preschool is committed to providing a high standard of care through a safe and engaging environment, rich in learning opportunities that support each child s individual progress and prepare them for a positive transition to school. We place a strong emphasis on outdoor learning and believe that nature offers the best environment for early development, with daily opportunities for exploration and discovery.

While we run as an independent charity, we have strong links with Stockland Primary Academy, ensuring continuity and collaboration across the early years and into primary education. Our dedicated team works in close partnership with a volunteer parent committee, ensuring we provide the best possible care and support for our children and families, something we are all truly passionate about.

About the role:

We are looking for a committed, enthusiastic, and experienced Preschool Manager to lead our passionate team and continue providing high-quality care and education for our children. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference in a close-knit, community-based setting.

Key responsibilities:

• Oversee the daily running of the preschool, ensuring a safe, stimulating, and inclusive environment
• Lead and support the team in delivering the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum
• Promote child-led, outdoor learning experiences that foster curiosity, resilience, and independence
• Maintain strong relationships with parents, carers, staff, and our primary school partners
• Ensure all safeguarding, health and safety, and regulatory requirements are met
• Manage administration, including staff rotas, funding claims, and compliance documentation
• Work closely with the preschool committee to support the strategic direction and sustainability of the setting

What we re looking for:

• A minimum Level 3 qualification in early years (or equivalent); Level 5 or above desirable
• SENCO qualification or working towards the qualification
• Experience in a leadership or management role within an early years setting
• A strong understanding of the EYFS framework and statutory requirements
• A passion for outdoor learning and child-led education
• Excellent organisational, communication, and leadership skills
• A caring, professional, and flexible approach
• Current paediatric first aid and safeguarding certificates

What we offer:

• A welcoming and supportive team in a beautiful rural setting
• Opportunities to shape and lead a unique, outdoor-focused early years curriculum
• Strong links and collaboration with Stockland Primary Academy
• Competitive hourly rate of £14.82 £16.08, depending on experience
• Minimum 30 hours per week with flexibility to discuss additional hours
• Term-time working pattern

Please see job description for full details (attached below).

Apply:

If you're ready to take the next step in your early years career and would love to lead a setting that celebrates outdoor learning and community connection, we d love to hear from you!

Please complete and send the attached application form and a short covering letter outlining your suitability for the role to Christina Leppard by email:

For an informal chat or to arrange a visit, please contact Pippa Salter or call .

Stockland and Yarcombe Preschool

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.

Click here for the job description