From Nursery Educator To Nursery Manager: Career Pathway Programmes At Fennies

At Fennies, professional development is built into every role. Career pathways are structured, supported, and designed to grow talent from within, from entry level positions through to senior leadership.

Building Careers At Fennies Nurseries

Our programmes recognise potential, strengthen practice, and give our teams clear direction for long term career progression within Early Years.

This blog outlines the progression opportunities available at Fennies, including:

• Entry routes and apprenticeship pathways
• Leadership development within nursery practice
• Clear progression into management roles
• Bespoke senior leadership programmes
• A performance led approach to career growth

Entry Routes And Early Qualifications

Around 25–30% of our team join Fennies unqualified, bringing a wide range of experience but without formal early years qualifications. In partnership with Realise, we support these educators to achieve Level 2, creating a structured and supportive entry route into Early Years education.

For those moving from Level 2 to Level 3, an accelerated pathway enables completion in just six to nine months. This route is chosen by around 70% of our team, allowing experienced practitioners to progress quickly while continuing to work within their nursery and apply their learning in practice.

These apprenticeship pathways ensure that experience and commitment are recognised, supporting both confidence and consistency across teams.

Developing Leadership In Practice

Leadership development at Fennies begins within the room. Our Room Leader Programme supports educators stepping into leadership responsibilities while remaining closely connected to practice.

Delivered through three face to face sessions off site with Kelly, our specialist trainer, the programme focuses on leading practice, supporting colleagues, and maintaining high standards of care and education.

Peer to peer observation is central to the programme. Room Leaders learn how to observe effectively, give clear feedback, and reflect on their impact, strengthening leadership skills while improving daily practice.

Progression To Third In Charge

The Third in Charge role offers wider leadership exposure while supporting the nursery management team. It allows individuals to develop confidence in decision making and operational understanding.

Progression into this role is based on consistent performance and behaviours, ensuring readiness at each stage.

Deputy Manager Pathway

Our Deputy Manager pathway is a six month live programme tailored to the individual. Each participant follows a bespoke plan shaped by their strengths, development areas and career goals.

The programme begins with focused conversations to identify gaps and priorities. Ongoing coaching is provided by a member of the Learning and Development team alongside an experienced Nursery Manager or Regional Manager, utilised as a mentor.

This dual support builds confidence, capability and leadership presence.

Nursery Manager Pathway

Progression into a Nursery Manager role is supported through a clear, performance led pathway that builds on Deputy level experience.

This stage focuses on accountability, confident decision making, and leading a full nursery team. Support from senior leaders ensures individuals are prepared for the responsibilities of management.

Priya’s journey is a strong example of this pathway in action. [Quote placeholder – Priya or Senior Leadership Team]

Regional Manager Development

Development at Fennies continues beyond nursery leadership. Our Regional Manager programme is fully bespoke, designed to recognise potential and address individual development needs.

The pathway focuses on leadership impact, strategic thinking and people development, supporting progression into senior roles that are not widely available within the early years sector.

Investing In The Future Of Early Years

At Fennies, we are committed to building long-term careers and nurturing talent at every stage. Our approach combines structured training, mentorship, and hands-on experience to ensure each team member develops practical skills, leadership capability and confidence.

We offer bespoke career development plans for aspiring leaders, integrating feedback, coaching and real-world nursery challenges. By aligning personal strengths with organisational goals, Fennies ensures progression is meaningful and sustainable.

Through this focus on growth, our team members gain experience, knowledge, and support that positions them for internal promotion, moving from early educator roles to management and senior leadership positions with confidence.

Our investment in development not only benefits individuals but enhances the quality of care and learning across every nursery, contributing to Fennies’ reputation for excellence in Early Years education.