We are excited to be opening a brand-new nursery in Edgbaston, Birmingham, and are seeking a passionate and experienced Deputy Nursery Manager to join our leadership team. This role will also involve supporting our well-established nursery in Moseley, contributing to the continued delivery of high-quality care and education across both settings.
Role Purpose
To support the leadership and management of the nursery, ensuring the highest standards of care and education for all children. The Deputy Nursery Manager will help create a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where children can thrive and reach their full potential.
The role includes overseeing the day-to-day running of the nursery in the absence of the Principal Nursery Manager and ensuring full compliance with all relevant legislation, safeguarding requirements, and organisational policies.
Key Responsibilities
1. Leadership & Management
- Support the strategic planning, development, and continuous improvement of the nursery
- Lead the day-to-day operations in the absence of the Principal Nursery Manager
- Promote a positive, inclusive, and high-performing team culture
- Ensure the nursery operates efficiently and maintains high standards at all times
2. Childcare & Education
- Ensure high-quality care and education in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
- Oversee planning, observation, and assessment to support each child’s development
- Promote a child-centred, play-based learning environment
- Ensure all children are treated as individuals and supported to develop confidence and identity
- Support inclusive practice, including special educational needs and early intervention
3. Safeguarding & Compliance
- Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
- Ensure safeguarding, child protection, and whistleblowing procedures are fully understood and followed
- Maintain compliance with all regulatory requirements and legislation
- Ensure accurate, confidential, and up-to-date record keeping
4. Health & Safety
- Promote and maintain a safe, clean, and secure nursery environment
- Conduct risk assessments and ensure appropriate action is taken
- Ensure all health, safety, and hygiene standards are consistently met
- Maintain awareness of emergency and security procedures
5. Staff Management & Development
- Support recruitment, induction, supervision, and appraisal of staff
- Identify training needs and support professional development
- Foster a motivated, well-qualified, and committed staff team
- Manage staff rotas, absences, and staffing ratios in line with EYFS requirements
- Address performance, disciplinary, and grievance matters with support from senior management
6. Operations & Administration
- Support occupancy management, bookings, and enquiries
- Maintain accurate administrative systems and nursery records
- Assist with inspections and ensure actions are implemented promptly
- Contribute to reporting on nursery performance, quality, and standards
7. Partnerships & Communication
- Build strong relationships with parents, carers, and external agencies
- Promote effective communication across the nursery
- Support and lead meetings, events, and parent engagement activities
- Represent the nursery professionally within the local community
8. Finance & Resources
- Support budget management and monitor resource use
- Ensure the nursery is well-equipped and resources are maintained
- Oversee staff timesheets and support payroll processes
Person Specification
Essential
- Level 3 qualification in Early Years (or equivalent)
- Minimum 2 years’ post-qualification experience in early years (0–5)
- Experience leading or supporting staff teams
- Strong knowledge of EYFS and child development
- Sound understanding of safeguarding and child protection
- Good organisational, communication, and leadership skills
Desirable
- Higher-level early years qualification
- Additional training (e.g. First Aid)
- The ability to use computers and software packages
Personal Attributes
- Caring, patient, and approachable
- Positive, motivated, and flexible
- Professional and reliable
- Committed to high standards and continuous improvement
- Able to work independently and as part of a team
What We Offer
We are committed to supporting and valuing our staff. In return for your dedication, we offer:
- Ongoing training and professional development opportunities
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Generous staff discount on childcare fees
- Flexible shift patterns
- Free on-site parking
- Free DBS check
- Company pension scheme
- Birthday off
- Subsidised social events
- Staff recognition schemes (Gem Award & Shoutout Award)
- Medicash health plan
We have a robust safe recruitment policy in place and a successful candidate will be subject to a DBS check and satisfactory references.
- UK Experience / UK References required so that we can verify your experience.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £32,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Cycle to work scheme
- Employee discount
Application question(s):
- Do you have a Level 3 in Childcare?
Experience:
- Nursery: 2 years (required)
Language:
Work Location: In person
