Job Description

To support the Nursery Manager in the day-to-day operational management of the nursery, ensuring high standards of care, education, safety, and well-being for all children. The Deputy Manager will act as the Manager in their absence and assist in staff supervision, curriculum planning, and regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Leadership & Management

Support the Nursery Manager in the leadership and supervision of the staff team, including recruitment, induction, training, mentoring, and appraisals. Promote a positive and inclusive working environment that supports teamwork and staff morale. Act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) or Deputy DSL, ensuring safeguarding policies and procedures are consistently followed. Lead room teams as needed, modelling best practices and supporting less experienced staff.

2. Operational Support

Ensure the nursery complies with all Ofsted requirements and the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. Maintain accurate and up-to-date records on children, staff, accidents/incidents, and health and safety checks. Assist in planning and implementing nursery policies, procedures, and daily routines. Take responsibility for the nursery in the absence of the Manager, including decision-making, staff deployment, and parent communication.

3. Childcare & Education

Support and deliver high-quality educational programs that meet the individual needs of all children in line with the EYFS. Observe, assess, and record children's development, contributing to individual learning plans and reviews. Promote inclusive practice and support children with additional needs, ensuring interventions and support plans are in place.

4. Parent & Community Engagement

Build positive relationships with parents and carers, maintaining regular communication regarding their child's development and welfare. Organise and attend parent meetings, open days, and events. Handle parental queries, concerns, and complaints in a professional and timely manner.

5. Health, Safety & Safeguarding

Ensure that all children are safeguarded and their welfare is promoted. Conduct regular risk assessments and ensure the nursery environment is safe and secure at all times. Administer and monitor health and safety practices including hygiene, medication administration, and first aid (as trained).

Essential Qualifications and Experience:

Level 3 or above qualification in Early Years/Childcare (e.g., NVQ, CACHE, or equivalent). Minimum of 2 years' experience in an early years setting, with at least 1 year in a supervisory role. Paediatric First Aid certificate. Safeguarding training (Level 2 or 3 desirable).

Key Skills and Attributes:

Strong leadership and team management abilities. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. A caring, patient, and enthusiastic approach. Ability to multitask and work under pressure. Competency with administrative tasks and IT systems.

This job role is subject to:

A clear Enhanced DBS check. Two satisfactory professional references. Ongoing commitment to training and professional development.
Job Type: Full-time

Pay: Up to 35,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Additional leave Casual dress Childcare Company events Company pension Discounted or free food Employee mentoring programme
Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Application question(s):

Do you hold a Level 3 or above in Early Years
Work Location: In person