Job Description

Background Information

We are looking for an enthusiastic and experienced

Deputy Manager

to join our dedicated team at Willow Green Day Nursery. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who is passionate about early years education, committed to high standards of childcare, and eager to support the Nursery Manager in leading a thriving nursery.

We are looking for someone who has:

A

Level 3 or above in Early Years Childcare

(essential). Experience in a supervisory or Deputy Manager role within a nursery setting. Excellent knowledge of the EYFS framework and safeguarding requirements. Strong leadership, organisational, and communication skills. A genuine passion for supporting children's learning and development.
Why Join Us as Deputy Nursery Manager?

At

Willow Green Day Nursery

, part of the

Kids Zone Nursery Group

(the largest nursery group in Tameside with 8 successful settings across Greater Manchester), you'll gain much more than just a job in childcare -- you'll develop the skills, knowledge, and experience to grow within the childcare sector and beyond.

What makes this opportunity special?

Supportive, long-standing team

with a strong sense of community.

Ofsted rated "Good"

nursery. Excellent

transport links

nearby (tram & bus routes). Convenient

central location

. Work closely with the

Area Manager, Nursery Manager, and SENDCo

, gaining hands-on experience in all aspects of nursery management Learn directly from a knowledgeable

Senior Management Team

with a proven track record in early years success.
The Role

As Deputy Manager, you'll play a key role in ensuring the nursery continues to thrive. You will:

Work alongside the Manager, staff, and children to gain a full understanding of how our nursery operates. Support with

parent partnerships

, including show-rounds, enrollments, and discussing children's progress. Lead and manage staff teams day-to-day, ensuring

high standards of care

are maintained. Contribute to

social media and parent communication platforms

using staff photos and updates to showcase our nursery. Take part in

staff meetings, supervisions, and reviews

, supporting staff well-being and professional growth. Bring creativity to nursery events (e.g. Children in Need, World Book Day, PJ Days, and local fundraising initiatives). Support -- or learn how to support -- staff in additional roles (e.g. SENDCo / DSL) with paperwork and meetings. Collect and act on

parent feedback

, recognising achievements and suggesting improvements.
What We're Looking For

A strong understanding of childcare, the

EYFS framework

, and Ofsted requirements. Excellent

communication skills

-- able to motivate staff, support parents, and engage with children. Confidence in

written communication

for social media posts and parent messages.

Organisational and time management skills

with the ability to think ahead and plan effectively. A

positive, motivated, and resourceful attitude

-- eager to keep learning and developing. A desire to gain more than childcare experience: you'll also learn how a successful nursery business is run, preparing you for future leadership opportunities.
Required Skills

We're looking for someone who has:

A solid understanding of

childcare

, the

statutory framework

, and

Ofsted expectations

. Strong

communication skills

, with the ability to give praise, share advice, and contribute ideas. Good

written skills

for responding to parents via nursery software and creating engaging social media posts. Excellent

organisational and time management abilities

-- able to plan ahead and stay on top of priorities. A positive attitude and a genuine

willingness to learn

, with motivation to develop your career further. An interest in not only childcare, but also how a

successful nursery business

operates -- ideal for someone ambitious, resourceful, and eager to grow.
Why Join the Kids Zone Nursery Family?

At Kids Zone Nursery Group, we believe in growing our own talent -- in fact, the

majority of our Managers began their careers with us as apprentices

. By joining our team, you'll benefit from:

Competitive salary

Monday-Friday working

Clear

career progression opportunities

Access to our

comprehensive training facility

Training bonus

and

attendance bonus

Subsidised childcare

for your little ones

Refer-a-friend bonus

Regular

staff rewards and recognition

Free branded staff uniform

Closed over Christmas & New Year

Interested please call 0161 523 6859 / 0161 989 5722 and speak with Julie or Sarah

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 12.31-13.00 per hour

Expected hours: No more than 42.5 per week

Benefits:

Childcare Company pension Employee discount On-site parking
Education:

Certificate of Higher Education (preferred)
Experience:

Management: 1 year (preferred) Nursery: 1 year (required) Nursery Management: 1 year (required) Childcare: 3 years (preferred)
Licence/Certification:

Driving Licence (preferred)
Work Location: In person

Reference ID: KZNDeputyWGJun24