Early Years & Operations Lead
£32-£38k 

Hybrid Role (across our nurseries in Surrey & South West London + office time in Cobham)
40 Hours a Week (flexible working times between 7am–6pm)

February start date (Flexible) 

We believe in creating extraordinary early experiences for children by pioneering outdoor learning in our forest nurseries and holiday camps. As our Early Years & Operations Lead, you will play a pivotal role in shaping outstanding practice across our sites while ensuring smooth, high-quality operational delivery.

In this role, you will:

• Support our Nursery Managers to deliver exceptional Early Years practice rooted in outdoor learning

• Drive quality, consistency and compliance across our nurseries, ensuring we exceed EYFS and Ofsted expectations

• Support day-to-day operations across sites, stepping in with hands-on help where needed including 

• Lead elements of training, onboarding and professional development for our teams

• Oversee elements of site operations including health & safety, EHO compliance, safeguarding practices and parent communications

• Contribute to new site openings, team development initiatives and continuous improvement of systems and processes

• Manage nurseries in manager absences or for new site successful set up 

• Manage efficient nursery resourcing

• Conduct HR conversations and processes effectively 

• Manage holiday camp organisation and experience  

• Supporting quality of parent experience, successful recruitment, marketing and events 

Why you?

• You’re a warm, confident communicator who builds strong relationships with teams, children and families

• You bring solid Early Years knowledge and nursery leadership experience

• You thrive in a fast-paced environment and can balance operational priorities

• You’re energised by spending time outdoors and passionate about our innovative approach to Early Years education

• You’re organised, solutions-oriented and comfortable navigating different systems, schedules and challenges

• You enjoy coaching and supporting teams and are comfortable handling a range of HR scenarios 

• You’re flexible, proactive and enthusiastic about jumping in wherever your support is needed across our nurseries

Why us?

• We are an innovative and ambitious nursery group where your leadership will have a meaningful impact on children, families and teams
  • We offer opportunities to shape practice, contribute to growth and develop your career
  • Access to our YuLife app with a private virtual GP, mental wellbeing support and rewards you can spend at your favourite brands
  • We get to spend our days outdoors in nature and fresh air
  • Competitive salaries with opportunities for bonuses
  • A dynamic Operations team that values collaboration, creativity and continuous learning
  • Paid sick day allowance
• Generous childcare discount 
  • Extra holiday days after 2, 3 and 4 years of owlsome service
  • Clothing and accessories including boots, beanie and neck warmer
  • We love team socials, celebrations and the joy of being part of a warm, supportive community

We can’t wait to hear from you soon!