Job Overview
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Level 3 Early Years Practitioner / Deputy Manager to join our childcare team.
This is a hands-on, room-based role supporting the Room Leader in providing high-quality early years education and care. The successful candidate will help create a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where children can thrive while supporting the smooth day-to-day running of the room.
The role also includes supporting the Nursery Manager with selected leadership and operational responsibilities and acting as the manager on duty when required. This position offers an excellent opportunity for an experienced practitioner looking to develop their leadership skills and progress within a professional early years setting.
Responsibilities
- Support the Nursery Manager with selected administrative and operational duties as required.
- Undertake delegated deputy management responsibilities, including assisting with staff deployment, room ratios, daily checks, and maintaining nursery standards.
- Act as the manager on duty during periods when the Nursery Manager is absent, ensuring the smooth day-to-day operation of the setting and adherence to all nursery policies and procedures.
- Support the Room Leader in the day-to-day organisation and running of the room.
- Deliver engaging activities that promote children's learning and development in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework.
- Act as a key person, building positive relationships with children and their families.
- Support and guide junior practitioners, students, and apprentices within the room.
- Assist with observations, assessments, planning, and record-keeping to monitor children's progress.
- Ensure all health and safety procedures are followed, maintaining a safe environment for children and staff.
- Support the implementation of safeguarding and child protection policies at all times.
- Contribute to creating a positive, inclusive, and welcoming environment for children, families, and colleagues.
- Step into the Room Leader's responsibilities during periods of absence.
- Liaise with parents, professionals, and external agencies as required, escalating matters to senior management where appropriate.
- Support the leadership team in maintaining compliance with Ofsted requirements, safeguarding procedures, and nursery policies.
- Work collaboratively with the wider nursery team to maintain high standards of care and education.
Experience
- Minimum 5 years' experience working within an early years setting.
- Previous experience in a leadership or supervisory role, such as Senior Practitioner, Third in Charge, Room Leader, Deputy Room Leader, or similar.
- Demonstrable experience supporting, mentoring, and guiding colleagues to maintain high standards of practice.
- Confidence in leading a room, making operational decisions, and taking responsibility for the setting in the absence of senior management.
- Sound knowledge of Ofsted requirements, safeguarding procedures, and EYFS best practice.
Pay: £14.50 per hour
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
