Job Location: Horsham, West Sussex
Salary: £32,000 - £40,000pa
Hours: 30-40hours per week
Deputy Nursery Manager
Little Barn Owls Nursery Group is an innovative, creative, and award-winning nursery group inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, Farm Schools, and Forest Schools. Our passion is nurturing confident, caring, and curious children through exceptional early years education.
Our nurseries have received national recognition, including:
- Nursery World Enabling Environments Award – 2024
- UK Nursery Group of the Year – 2020
- UK Nursery of the Year – 2015
- Our nurseries are graded ‘Outstanding’ by OFSTED
We operate four unique nurseries, each designed to inspire creativity and exploration. Our settings include dedicated creative studios (Ateliers) where professional artists work alongside children, encouraging imagination and independent thinking.
Our Forest School Nursery in Southwater also features a private 11-acre woodland, allowing children to explore nature and learn outdoors every day.
We are currently looking for a Deputy Manager to join our lovely nursery team. This role will involve supporting the management team while working both within rooms and across the nursery.
What We Offer
- Competitive salaries and industry-leading benefits
- International travel opportunities for qualified childcare professionals
- Up to 80% discount on childcare fees
- Staff reward schemes and performance bonuses
- Contribution towards Christmas shopping costs
- Clear career progression opportunities
- Funded training and professional development
- Supportive leadership and mentorship
- Opportunities to grow with an expanding nursery group
The Role
As Deputy Manager, you will support the Nursery Manager in ensuring the highest standards of care, education, and team leadership across the nursery.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver engaging learning experiences to support children's development
- Support staff in creating a positive, stimulating learning environment
- Build strong relationships with children, parents, and colleagues
- Support day-to-day nursery operations and team development
- Participate in training and professional development
- Contribute to the nursery’s continued growth and improvement
About You
We are looking for someone who is:
- A strong and positive leader who can inspire and support a team
- Passionate about delivering high-quality early years education for children aged 0-5
- Looking for a long-term career with opportunities to progress
- Committed to providing a safe, fun, and stimulating environment
- A team player with excellent communication skills
- Proactive, enthusiastic, and dedicated to professional development
Why Join Little Barn Owls?
- Competitive salary with opportunities to increase as you progress
- Funded qualifications and ongoing professional development
- Work in a creative, inspiring nursery environment
- Join a friendly, supportive team
- Be part of a growing and ambitious nursery group
Important Information
- Our nurseries operate 51 weeks per year, from 7:30am – 6:00pm.
- We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of race, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, or background.
- Safeguarding is our priority. All successful applicants will require an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.
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Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £32,000.00-£40,000.00 per year
Licence/Certification:
- Level 3 or above in Early Years (required)
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
