4 days per week 8:15am to 5:45pm (with a one-hour lunch break) &
1 day per week 8:15am to 2:15pm
We are seeking a passionate and experienced
Deputy Manager
to join our leadership team at The Wildflowers Nature Nursery. The ideal candidate will be an inspiring early years professional who is dedicated to providing exceptional care and education for young children while supporting the day-to-day running of our small, nature-based setting.
This role involves working closely with the Nursery Manager & Director to ensure high standards of care, education, and compliance, while nurturing a positive and supportive team culture. You will lead by example, model excellent practice, and help to create an environment where both children and staff can truly flourish.
This is an exciting opportunity to take on a leadership role within a growing, independent, and nature-inspired nursery.
Annual Leave:
20 days of annual leave, plus bank/public holidays & Christmas closure
Inset Days:
2 inset days per year focused on your professional growth and wellbeing
At The Wildflowers, we genuinely care about our team. This role offers ongoing opportunities for development, reflection, and creativity in your practice.
About Us
At
The Wildflowers Nature Nursery
, we believe in the power of nature to nurture curiosity, creativity, and confidence. Nestled within the beautiful
Pury Hill Business Park
, our setting offers stunning outdoor spaces for exploration alongside thoughtfully designed indoor areas that blend seamlessly with the natural world.
Our philosophy centres on child-led, nature-based learning, encouraging open-ended play, resilience, and wonder through daily outdoor experiences. We see children as capable learners, and our role is to guide and support them as they explore, question, and grow.
As Deputy Manager, you will help lead a passionate team dedicated to creating this magic every day.
Key Responsibilities
Support the Nursery Manager in the overall leadership and management of the setting.
Ensure the highest standards of care, safety, and education across all age groups.
Maintaining a strong safeguarding culture.
Oversee the daily operation of the nursery in the Manager's absence.
Lead, mentor, and inspire the team to deliver engaging, child-led learning experiences.
Contribute to curriculum planning and the ongoing development of nature-based learning opportunities.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date records in line with the EYFS and regulatory requirements.
Build positive and professional relationships with families, offering support and clear communication regarding children's development.
Support the induction and supervision processes for staff.
Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and Ofsted regulations.
Skills and Experience
Level 3 qualification or above in Early Years Education and Childcare (required).
At least two years of post-qualification experience, in a leadership role.
Strong understanding of the EYFS, child development, and safeguarding requirements.
Excellent organisational, communication, and leadership skills.
Genuine passion for outdoor, nature-based education and reflective, child-led practice.
Ability to foster a positive, inclusive, and supportive team culture.
If you are a motivated early years professional ready to take the next step in your career, leading with warmth, creativity, and purpose, we would love to hear from you.
We are committed to safeguarding children. This post is subject to safer recruitment processes and an enhanced DBS check.