About The RoleArea Manager – Ark StartReporting to:

Director of Early YearsLocation:

Various locations across LondonContract:

PermanentWorking Pattern:

Full-timeInterviews:

Interviews will be arranged as suitable candidates are identifiedSalary:

Competitive

About the role:The area manager role at Ark Start is a leadership position focused on fostering excellence across a group of nurseries. This individual will play a crucial role in driving continuous improvement, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and enhancing the quality of early years education. Leading one specialised area of expertise—such as safeguarding or inclusion —the area manager will shape a positive culture that embodies Ark Start’s values. They will build strong relationships with nursery managers, supporting their professional growth and tailoring Ark Start’s approach to meet the unique needs of each nursery. Responsible for both operational excellence and quality assurance, this role includes overseeing Ofsted readiness, leading safeguarding as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), and acting as the Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCo) to ensure inclusive practices. Additionally, the area manager will coach and develop staff and build partnerships within the community to drive the success of the nurseries.

Key Responsibilities:Operational LeadershipOperational ExcellenceQuality AssuranceStaff Development and TrainingFinancial and HR ManagementPartnership and Community EngagementLead and develop one area of expertise (e.g. Inclusion, Safeguarding, Family Programme), driving continuous improvement across your regionEstablish a strong and positive culture, setting consistent expectations and embodying Ark Start’s values in all interactionsLine manage a region of nurseries, building a trusting relationship with nursery managers to support their development and ensure continuous improvementTailor the Ark Start approach to suit the unique context and developmental needs of each nursery, ensuring flexibility and adaptabilityOversee the implementation of Ark Start and statutory policies, including safeguarding, health and safety, first aid, and risk assessmentsIdentify and address strengths and weaknesses within the nurseries, implementing plans for improvement where necessaryEnsure nurseries are Ofsted-ready, leading inspections and ensuring compliance with regulatory standardsServe as the Designated Safeguarding Lead for the region, managing safeguarding cases and ensuring adherence to Ark Start’s safeguarding policyAct as the Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCo) for the region, ensuring all necessary paperwork and provision are in place for children with additional needsOversee planning meetings and monitor curriculum implementation, supporting staff to deliver consistently excellent educational provisionCoach and mentor nursery managers and staff, fostering a culture of professional growth and continuous learningSupport managers in identifying training needs and facilitating ongoing professional development for all staff membersEnsure effective deployment of staff, meeting the needs of each nursery while considering staff skills and strengthsAssist apprentices in achieving their qualifications and provide support throughout their developmentMeet financial targets for the nurseries in your region, monitoring budgets and resource allocationEnsure compliance with HR policies and procedures, including recruitment, performance management, and employee relationsIdentify staffing needs and gaps, working with the Headteacher of Ark Start, and wider team, to ensure effective workforce planningBuild strong relationships with partner schools, local authorities, and external agencies to support the development and success of Ark Start nurseriesLead the implementation and continuous development of the family programme, enhancing parent engagement and support