Job Title: Early Years Deputy Manager
Salary Scale: £35,000 - £37,000
Working hours: Monday to Friday, 40 hours a week
Responsible to: Managing Director
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Qualifications and Experience:
- NVQ Level 3 in Early Years Education or equivalent (required).
- Minimum of 3-5 years’ experience in a leadership or senior practitioner role within an early years setting.
- Paediatric First Aid (required).
- Experience in managing teams, conducting staff appraisals, and providing professional development support.
- A passion for early childhood education and a strong commitment to delivering high-quality care and learning experiences.
- SENCO training (or willingness to complete as part of the role).
- Knowledge and experience of implementing EYFS and safeguarding protocols.
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Purpose of Job Role:
The Deputy Manager plays a pivotal role in the day-to-day management of the nursery, combining leadership and operational oversight with direct involvement in curriculum delivery, staff mentorship, and daily activities. The role is designed to support the Manager in delivering high-quality education and care, driving improvements, and maintaining a safe, effective, and nurturing environment for both staff and children.
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Main Responsibilities:
1. Leadership and Staff Management
- Supervise, support, and mentor staff, fostering a positive and collaborative team culture.
- Lead by example, working directly with children and staff, ensuring high standards of care and education are met.
- Assist with recruitment, induction, and training of new staff members.
- Conduct staff supervisions, appraisals, and manage ongoing staff development to ensure continuous professional growth.
- Promote a positive, engaging, and respectful working environment.
2. Curriculum Development and Educational Leadership
- Lead and support the implementation of the EYFS curriculum, ensuring all learning experiences are aligned with best practice.
- Develop and implement creative and engaging activities that encourage children’s independence, curiosity, and development.
- Actively participate in educational planning and reviews, ensuring activities cater to the individual needs of the children.
- Support the introduction and organization of outdoor learning experiences, including Forest School programs and excursions.
- Provide guidance and support to staff in creating meaningful, age-appropriate observations and assessments for children's progress.
3. Operational and Strategic Oversight
- Support the Manager in managing the overall operations of the nursery, ensuring effective day-to-day running.
- Oversee daily routines for children, ensuring consistency in educational delivery, safety standards, and overall care.
- Work closely with the Manager to monitor compliance with all regulatory requirements (e.g., Ofsted, Health & Safety, Safeguarding).
- Take a lead role in organizing and implementing health and safety policies, ensuring all practices are regularly reviewed and maintained.
- Assist in managing the nursery’s budget, ensuring resources are effectively allocated and expenses are monitored.
- Contribute to the strategic planning and future development of the nursery in collaboration with the Manager and the senior leadership team.
4. Parent and Community Engagement
- Develop strong, open, and communicative relationships with parents and carers, providing regular updates and supporting their involvement in the child’s learning journey.
- Organize and participate in parent evenings, workshops, and events to foster a supportive relationship between the nursery and the families.
- Represent the setting at community events, promoting the nursery and its values to the broader community.
5. Professional Development and Mentorship
- Take an active role in the mentorship of staff and students, encouraging professional development and supporting their growth.
- Lead staff training sessions, inset days, and external professional development opportunities to ensure the team remains up to date with the latest childcare practices and regulations.
- Provide ongoing feedback and guidance to staff, ensuring high standards of practice are met in all areas of the setting.
6. Marketing and Social Media
- Collect media for social media platforms to maintain an online presence that showcases the setting’s values, educational approach, and activities.
7. Compliance and Safeguarding
- Ensure that safeguarding policies and procedures are strictly followed, maintaining a child-focused environment.
- Be a key point of contact for safeguarding concerns, reporting incidents appropriately in line with policies.
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Skills and Qualities:
- Leadership: Strong leadership skills, with the ability to motivate, support, and guide a diverse team.
- Hands-On Approach: Passion for working directly with children, providing leadership and guidance in educational activities while maintaining high standards of care.
- Problem Solving: Excellent problem-solving skills, able to adapt quickly and find solutions in challenging situations.
- Communication: Strong communication skills with staff, parents, and external partners, able to build positive and respectful relationships.
- Organisation: Outstanding organisational skills, able to manage multiple priorities and ensure the smooth day-to-day running of the setting.
- Creativity: Innovative thinking and creative approach to curriculum development and activities, ensuring a dynamic and engaging environment for children and staff.
- Knowledge: Deep understanding of EYFS, child development, and early years practices, as well as current legal frameworks and statutory requirements.
This Job description is not fully exhaustive and subject to review at annual appraisals.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £35,000.00-£37,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Company events
- Company pension
- UK visa sponsorship
Ability to commute/relocate:
- London N19 5RR: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Education:
- Diploma of Higher Education (required)
Experience:
- Management: 3 years (required)
- Early childhood education: 5 years (required)
- Staff training: 3 years (required)
Work Location: In person
