Deputy Nursery Manager

Salary: £31,782 per annum
Contract: Full time, Permanent

Start Date: ASAP

Job Purpose

To support the Nursery Manager in the day-to-day leadership and operational management of the nursery, ensuring the highest standards of care, education, safeguarding, and compliance . The Deputy Nursery Manager will act as a role model, deputise in the absence of the Nursery Manager, and support the team to deliver outstanding outcomes for children and families.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Management

• Support the Nursery Manager to lead, motivate, and develop the nursery team

• Act as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL) and uphold safeguarding responsibilities at all times

• Deputise for the Nursery Manager in their absence, taking full operational responsibility

• Support recruitment, onboarding, induction, supervision, and performance management

• Promote a positive, inclusive, and professional nursery culture aligned to company values

Quality, Curriculum & Practice

• Support the delivery of a high-quality, child-centred curriculum in line with the EYFS Framework

• Ensure high standards of teaching, learning, and interactions across rooms

• Support observations, assessments, planning, and next steps for children

• Model best practice and provide coaching and mentoring to staff

• Support preparation for Ofsted inspections/CIW inspections and internal audits

Safeguarding, Welfare & Compliance

• Ensure all safeguarding, child protection, health & safety, and welfare requirements are fully met

• Support the implementation of policies, procedures, and statutory requirements

• Act promptly on concerns regarding children, staff practice, or safeguarding

• Ensure accurate record-keeping and confidentiality at all times

Operational & Financial Support

• Support staffing levels, rotas, and ratio management

• Assist in monitoring occupancy and supporting sustainable nursery operations

• Support effective communication with parents/carers, handling queries and concerns professionally

• Work collaboratively with head office and senior leadership teams

Parent & Stakeholder Engagement

• Build strong partnerships with parents and carers

• Support parent meetings, open days, and nursery events

• Promote the nursery positively within the local community

Person Specification

Essential

• Level 3 Early Years qualification (or above)

• Strong knowledge of the EYFS Framework and safeguarding requirements

• Previous experience within an early years setting (room-based leadership preferred)

• Confident communicator with children, parents, and colleagues

• Commitment to high-quality care, inclusion, and child development

Desirable

• Experience in a supervisory or deputy role

• Working knowledge of Ofsted/CIW expectations

• Paediatric First Aid (or willingness to complete)

• Experience supporting staff development, mentoring, or coaching

Skills & Attributes

• Calm, professional, and confident leadership style

• Organised with strong attention to detail

• Solution-focused and proactive

• Passionate about early years education and continuous improvement

• Flexible and supportive team player

Safeguarding Commitment

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks, references, and safer recruitment practices.