Early Education Manager/Director

Nursery Manager / Early Education Director

Location: Al Danah, Abu Dhabi
Employment type: Full-time, on-site or part-time

ADEK-licensed nursery welcoming children from 45 days to 4 years. We combine the EYFS framework with creative, purposeful play in a warm environment where every child is known as an individual. We integrate Reggio Emilia inspired practice as well.

We are looking for a Nursery Manager who can lead an excellent daily experience for children and families, support a strong team and help our nursery grow.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the nursery’s daily operations, staffing, records, resources, facilities and budget.
• Maintain high standards of safeguarding, child supervision, health, safety and wellbeing.
• Lead an age-appropriate EYFS-based programme built around play, exploration and each child’s development.
• Monitor teaching, learning observations and assessments, and identify ways to improve practice.
• Support sensitive settling-in for babies, toddlers and FS1 children, and build trusting relationships with their families.
• Recruit, guide and evaluate staff; oversee induction, professional development and clear responsibilities across the team.
• Develop, implement and review nursery policies and procedures in line with ADEK requirements.
• Maintain accurate enrolment and attendance records, and prepare for inspections and reporting requirements.
• Conduct welcoming, informative nursery tours, follow up with prospective families and guide them through registration.
• Build relationships with local employers and community organisations, and secure partnerships that increase enrolment.
• Track enquiries, tours and registrations, and work with the owner to improve the nursery’s enrolment approach.
• Respond to parent feedback and concerns with warmth, professionalism and sound judgment.

ADEK identifies the Nursery Manager as the Early Education Director and sets out minimum responsibilities for the role, including daily operations, educational leadership, staffing, family engagement, child wellbeing, records and budget oversight.

Essential qualifications and experience

• A completed CACHE Level 5 qualification in early years leadership, or an equivalent qualification acceptable for the role.
• A university degree and relevant early years experience that meet the applicable ADEK eligibility requirements for an Early Education Director.
• At least two years of management experience in an early childhood education and care setting.
• A successfully completed ADEK interview for the Early Education Director/Nursery Manager role.
• Eligibility to complete all applicable ADEK appointment and recruitment checks.

We would value

• Strong knowledge of EYFS, child development and play-based learning from infancy to age four.
• Experience managing an ADEK-licensed nursery in Abu Dhabi.
• The ability to lead a team with warmth, clarity and accountability.
• Confidence speaking with prospective parents, conducting tours and developing community or corporate partnerships.
• Excellent written and spoken English; Arabic communication skills are an advantage.
• A practical, creative approach to improving the experience of children, families and staff.

To apply: Please submit your CV, copies of your qualifications and confirmation that you have successfully completed the ADEK interview for this role.

Pay: AED4,000.00 - AED7,000.00 per month

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Abu Dhabi (Abu Dhabi)