Hours: Full-time
Setting: Outdoor Woodland Nursery
Qualification: BA Childhood Practice or equivalent – qualified or currently working towards
Age Range: Children aged 0–5 years
The Key Requirements
We are looking for an experienced and passionate Deputy Manager with a strong background in early childhood education and childcare, excellent leadership skills and a genuine passion for outdoor learning.
You will need to hold or be working towards a BA Childhood Practice or equivalent qualification and have proven experience working within an early years or childcare setting.
The successful candidate will be confident leading a team, communicating effectively with staff and parents, and creating engaging, nurturing and developmentally appropriate experiences for children aged 0–5.
A genuine enthusiasm for working outdoors and supporting children's learning and development in a woodland environment is essential.
About the Role
We are looking for a dedicated and enthusiastic Deputy Manager to help lead the daily operations of our unique woodland outdoor nursery.
You will be responsible for leading the outdoor nursery team in the woods, with one day per week based indoors, supporting the team to provide a safe, stimulating and nurturing environment where children can learn, explore and develop.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone who combines strong leadership and childcare experience with a real passion for outdoor education.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and support the outdoor nursery team, fostering a positive, collaborative and professional working environment
- Help manage the day-to-day operations of the outdoor nursery and ensure compliance with relevant regulations and standards
- Support the delivery of high-quality early years experiences for children aged 0–5
- Develop and implement age-appropriate learning and development programmes
- Create engaging outdoor learning experiences that encourage children's curiosity, confidence and development
- Monitor children's development and provide guidance to staff on effective childcare and learning practices
- Communicate professionally and effectively with parents regarding children's progress, development and any concerns
- Maintain a safe, welcoming and stimulating environment for children, staff and visitors
- Support staff training and ongoing professional development
- Organise and contribute to training and development opportunities for the nursery team
- Drive initiatives that enhance the nursery's reputation and relationships within the local community
- Work closely with the management team to continually improve the quality of care and learning provided
About You
You will ideally have:
- BA Childhood Practice or equivalent qualification, or be actively working towards it
- Proven experience working in early childhood education, childcare or an early years setting
- Experience in a leadership, supervisory or senior childcare role
- Strong leadership skills and the ability to motivate and support a diverse team
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English
- A strong understanding of the needs and development of children aged 0–5
- Excellent organisational and time-management skills
Why Join Us?
This is a rewarding opportunity to take a leadership role within a unique outdoor woodland nursery, helping children learn and develop through meaningful experiences in nature.
If you are an experienced early years professional with strong leadership skills, the right qualification or are working towards it, and you are passionate about outdoor education and giving children the best possible start, we would love to hear from you.
- The ability to create engaging, age-appropriate learning experiences
- A genuine passion for outdoor learning, woodland environments and working with children
- A commitment to supporting children's individual growth, learning and development
- Knowledge of current trends and best practice in early childhood education (desirable)
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £36,000.00-£42,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Company pension
- Flexitime
- Free parking
- Work from home
Education:
Experience:
- childcare: 5 years (required)
Work Location: In person
