Job title: Deputy Manager
Overview
We're proud to announce that we are expanding our nursery in Grove Hill.
We are looking for a Deputy Nursery Manager who is confident, child‑centred, and able to balance hands‑on practice with supportive leadership. This role is primarily based in the rooms as a nursery practitioner, ensuring high‑quality interactions, strong routines, and consistent care. Alongside this, the Deputy Manager will step into management duties one day a week, and provide additional support as needed to maintain smooth, safe, and compliant operations.
Main Purpose of the Role
- To work directly with children as an experienced, high‑quality practitioner.
- To support the Manager with leadership responsibilities one set day per week.
- To step into a management role when required (e.g., staff absence, busy periods, compliance tasks, parent queries).
- To help maintain a calm, organised, and consistent environment across the nursery.
In‑Room Responsibilities (Primary Focus)
- Deliver warm, responsive, high‑quality care and interactions.
- Support children’s learning, development, and play in line with the EYFS.
- Maintain strong routines, behaviour expectations, and a safe environment.
- Build positive, trusting relationships with families.
- Model good practice for staff and apprentices.
- Support with planning, observations, and assessments.
- Ensure safeguarding procedures are followed at all times.
Deputy Management Responsibilities (As Needed)
- Support with daily operational oversight, including staffing, routines, and room organisation.
- Assist with compliance tasks, paperwork, and record‑keeping.
- Help lead team communication, problem‑solving, and decision‑making.
- Provide guidance, mentoring, and support to staff.
- Step in for the Manager when required, ensuring continuity and calm leadership.
- Support with parent communication, queries, and relationship‑building.
- Contribute to maintaining high standards across the nursery.
What We’re Looking For
- A confident practitioner with strong EYFS knowledge.
- Someone who enjoys being hands‑on with children but can step up when needed.
- Calm, organised, and able to think clearly in busy moments.
- A positive team player who leads by example.
- Strong communication skills with staff and families.
- Experience in early years leadership or readiness to grow into the role.
- Level 3 qualification (minimum).
Hours & Structure
- Full‑time, term-time only role
- Majority of time spent in the rooms.
- Additional leadership support during busy periods, staff absence, or operational need.
Pay: £16,000.00-£18,000.00 per year
Benefits:
Education:
- GCSE or equivalent (preferred)
Licence/Certification:
- Level 3 Childcare (required)
Work Location: In person
