Job Overview
DeputyNursery Manager – Job Description
Salary –£26,172.50 7:30-am- 6pm
Location – West Wickham, Croydon
We’re opening the doors to our brand-new nursery, a small and nurturing setting for up to 16 children aged 6 months – 5 years old, and we need an inspiring Nursery Manager to lead the way.
This is more than just a role – it’s a chance to put your stamp on a start-up nursery, build a passionate team, and create a joyful space where children, families, and staff truly thrive.
Our nursery is rooted in our NEST principles – our promise to children, families, and each other:
Nurture – We provide a caring, secure environment where every child feels safe, valued, and loved.
Explore – We inspire curiosity and creativity, encouraging children to learn through play, discovery, and adventure.
Support – We work hand-in-hand with families, offering guidance, understanding, and consistent care to help each other reach their potential.
Thrive – We create the conditions for children to grow in confidence, friendships, and skills – ready for life’s next steps.
Why join us?
- Be part of an exciting new chapter from day one – your ideas, passion, and creativity will help shape our culture and environment.
- Enjoy a friendly, family-feel workplace where your voice is heard and valued.
- Childcare discount
- Term time only
As our DeputyNursery Manager, you’ll be the heart and soul of the nursery – leading your team to deliver exceptional care and education. You’ll inspire, support, and motivate staff, ensuring every child receives the best start in life. You will act as Designated Safeguarding Lead and take ownership of daily operations, compliance, and safeguarding. Working closely with our support team, you’ll recruit, nurture, and develop talented colleagues, as well as bring fresh ideas to grow occupancy and create a truly outstanding provision.
What we’re looking for
- Full and relevant Level 3 or above Early Years qualification
- Experience in an Early Years leadership role (Nursery Manager, Deputy, Assistant Manager, or similar)
- A track record of success in regulatory inspections, ideally achieving ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’
- A passion for building and developing high-performing, happy teams
- Strong knowledge of safeguarding, child protection, and the legal requirements of working with children
- Confident decision-making skills, with a can-do attitude and a flair for problem-solving
- A natural relationship-builder, able to connect with staff, parents, and the local community
We’re an inclusive employer, welcoming applications from all backgrounds. If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves, lead with passion, and help us create something truly special – we’d love to hear from you!
All roles are subject to an Enhanced DBS check.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: From £26,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Childcare
- Company pension
- On-site parking
Experience:
- Nursery: 2 years (required)
Licence/Certification:
- Level 3 or above (required)
Work Location: In person
