Job Title: Deputy Manager
Location: SMART Preschools, Southfields (SW18 5RH)
Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent
Working Pattern: 45 hours/week (5 days) or 40.5 hours/week (4.5 days) – your choice!
Salary: £38,610- £40,000 (depending on schedule)
Start Date: ASAP
We're looking for a passionate Deputy Manager for our wonderful Nursery in Southfields!
Join our team at SMART Preschools Southfields as a Deputy Manager and help shape the future for the children in our care.
We’re on the lookout for a positive, professional, and energetic leader to support our growing team and contribute to an inspiring and nurturing environment where children can flourish.
What We’re Looking For:
- A qualified Early Years practitioner (Level 3 or above)
- At least 2 years' experience in a nursery, preschool, or early years setting
- Confident leading a team and supporting staff development
- Strong knowledge of the EYFS and safeguarding practices
- A true team player with a “can-do” attitude and passion for children’s development
- Bonus: Paediatric First Aid and Food Hygiene training
Key Responsibilities:
- Deliver exceptional care and education for children in a warm, safe, and stimulating environment
- Plan and lead engaging activities that support early development
- Support the Nursery Manager with day-to-day operations and step up in their absence
- Lead by example, mentor team members, and help build a high-performing team
- Build trusted relationships with parents and carers, communicating children’s progress and needs
- Maintain accurate records and uphold compliance with all safeguarding and health & safety policies
- A Deputy manager who will be based 50/50 between the office and within the rooms.
Why Join SMART?
We believe in supporting our staff just as much as we support the children in our care. When you join SMART, you’ll benefit from:
- Flexible working: Choose from a 4.5- or 5-day work week
- Generous annual leave, plus 1 extra day for each year of service (up to 5 years)
- 3 personal days per year – life happens!
- Compassionate leave – 3 paid days for family emergencies
- Professional development budget (£250 annually)
- The “YOU” Fund – £150 for personal development (yoga classes, cookery courses, you name it!
- Perkbox access – weekly free coffee, discounts, and daily treats
- Season ticket loan & cycle-to-work scheme
- Termly Team events, referral bonuses, and a strong sense of community
- 5 days sick pay
- Annual work trips funded by us
About SMART Preschools
We start each day with one simple mission: to give every child in our care the best possible start in life. We are proud to create nurturing, enriching environments where children thrive—and our families notice:
“A blessing for any parent looking for a nurturing and enriching environment for their child.”“So attentive to the children, so friendly and careful with their development.”Ready to Apply?
We’d love to hear from you!
Send your CV and a short cover note to: [email protected]
We can’t wait to meet you
Safeguarding Statement:
SMART Preschools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment. All offers of employment are subject to enhanced DBS checks and at least two references.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £38,610.00-£40,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Additional leave
- Company events
- Company pension
- Cycle to work scheme
- Employee mentoring programme
- Free parking
- Referral programme
- Sick pay
Experience:
- Childcare: 2 years (required)
Licence/Certification:
- Level 3 or higher in early years (required)
Work Location: In person
