Job Description

To support the effective running of the nursery by taking responsibility for office management, funding administration, and supporting the Nursery Manager in staff mentoring and development. The Assistant Manager will play a vital role in maintaining smooth operations, accurate administrative systems, and a positive, supportive team culture focused on continuous professional growth.

Key Responsibilities

Funding Administration

Oversee all childcare funding processes, including government entitlements (e.g., 15/30 hours funded childcare). Accurately complete and submit funding claims to the local authority in line with deadlines. Maintain records of children accessing funding and ensure all documentation is compliant. Communicate funding information clearly to parents and provide support with forms and eligibility checks.
Office Management

Manage the day-to-day operations of the nursery office, ensuring all administrative tasks are completed efficiently. Respond to phone calls, emails, and written correspondence in a timely and professional manner. Maintain accurate and confidential records including attendance, safeguarding documentation, staff files, and financial paperwork. Organise staff rotas, meetings, training schedules, and other operational planning tasks. Monitor office and nursery supplies, placing orders as needed to support smooth nursery function. Ensure compliance with GDPR and other data protection requirements.
Financial and Operational Support

Support the Nursery Manager with fee tracking, invoicing, and liaising with external finance teams. Assist with internal audits, preparation for inspections, and maintaining operational policies and procedures. Maintain digital and physical filing systems to ensure accurate, secure, and accessible documentation.
Staff Mentoring and Development

Support the Nursery Manager in mentoring and guiding the staff team, fostering a positive and collaborative working environment. Help deliver staff inductions, supervisions, and ongoing support to ensure team members feel confident and capable in their roles. Identify and communicate staff training needs and assist in organising CPD opportunities. Promote reflective practice and professional growth through coaching and supportive dialogue. Help maintain high standards of care and education through role-modelling and ongoing support within the rooms when needed.
Team and Parent Engagement

Build strong, positive relationships with parents and carers, offering clear communication around funding, fees, and general nursery operations. Be a visible and approachable presence in the setting, promoting strong team morale and effective communication. Step in to support room-based practice where needed to ensure consistency and staff:child ratios are upheld.
Person Specification

Essential:

Experience in office management or administrative coordination Understanding of early years funding and government entitlements Strong leadership and team support skills Excellent communication, organisation, and time-management abilities Proficient in Microsoft Office and nursery management systems Commitment to confidentiality, safeguarding, and data protection standards Familiarity with CPD planning and staff supervision cycles
Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 29,425.00-35,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Childcare Company events Company pension Discounted or free food Employee discount Employee mentoring programme Free parking Gym membership Health & wellbeing programme On-site parking
Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person