Steps Pre‑School, based at St Stephen’s Church, Tonbridge, is seeking an experienced and passionate Pre‑School Manager to lead our warm, nurturing, and faith‑centred setting. This is an exciting opportunity for a committed early years professional to provide outstanding leadership, ensuring high‑quality education and care in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), while actively promoting our strong Christian ethos.

As Pre-School Manager, you will:

Lead and manage the daily operation of the pre‑school
Ensure alignment with the vision and ministry of the church
Act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead
Inspire and manage a dedicated staff team
Develop and deliver a creative, inclusive EYFS curriculum
Build strong relationships with parents, carers, and the church community
Ensure compliance with Ofsted, safeguarding, and statutory requirements
Support the long‑term growth and sustainability of Steps Pre‑School

We are looking for someone with:

A Level 3 Early Years qualification or above
Proven experience in a leadership or management role within early years
A strong understanding of EYFS and child development
Excellent communication and organisational skills
A warm, values-led leadership style
A commitment to ongoing professional development

This role is subject to a Genuine Occupational Requirement that the successful candidate is a practising Christian, whose life and work reflect the values of the Christian faith.

An Enhanced DBS check (including barred list) is required.

We are offering:

A supportive church‑based environment
Term‑time working
Opportunity to lead and develop a well‑established setting
A role that makes a meaningful difference to children and families
A salary of £24,000 - £26,000 per annum depending on experience (FTE £33,500 - £36,350)

To view the full Job Description and application form, please visit:

www.ststephens.org.uk/vacancies

Closing date for applications: 9am on 21st September 2026

Interviews: Late September / Early October 2026

St Stephen’s Church is committed to safeguarding and prioritising the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. All post holders are expected to share this commitment.