Nursery Deputy Manager

Tops Day Nurseries; Dorset; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading childcare provider is seeking a Nursery Deputy Manager in Dorset to oversee nursery operations and ensure a safe, educational environment for children. You will support the Nursery Manager, communicate with parents, and manage staff training and development. Candidates must have a Level 3 Early Years Qualification and experience in a supervisory role, along with a strong knowledge of EYFS and Ofsted regulations. This position offers a £700 welcome bonus and benefits such as childcare discounts and health support.

Benefits

£700 Welcome Bonus

Relocation support up to £3,000

Up to 60% childcare discount

Health & wellbeing support

Generous holiday allowance

Qualifications

• Minimum of a Level 3 Early Years Qualification required.
• Experience in leadership or supervisory role is essential.
• Strong knowledge of EYFS and Ofsted regulations.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations and support the Nursery Manager.
• Ensure a safe and educational environment for children.
• Communicate with parents regarding fees and care quality.

Skills

Leadership experience

Knowledge of EYFS and Ofsted regulations

Team management

Parent communication

Education

Level 3 Early Years Qualification

Job description

Nursery Deputy Manager

Location: Poole, Dorset, United Kingdom Dorset

Job type: Full Time Permanent

Salary: £15.70 Hour

Contracted Hours: 40 hours per week

Why Join Tops Day Nurseries?

At Tops Day Nurseries, we’ve been shaping futures since 1990. As the UK’s largest employee‑owned childcare group, we know that valuing people is the key to success. When you join us, you become more than an employee you become a co‑owner with a voice, opportunities to grow, and a share in our success.

With over 30 nurseries across the South of England, we provide outstanding early years education and childcare for babies, toddlers, and preschool children. With opportunities for Apprenticeship, Nursery practitioners, Nursery Managers & Casual staff, we are always looking for passionate individuals to join us.

We’re proud to be recognised as a World’s Happiest Workplace 2025 and one of the Top 10 Apprenticeship Employers in the UK (2024).

About the Role

A Nursery Deputy Manager plays a key role in supporting the Nursery Manager to oversee the daily operations of a nursery or childcare setting. They ensure that the nursery provides a safe, stimulating, and educational environment for children.

About the Nursery

Tops Poole Nursery is a 132 place Day Nursery & Pre‑School situated in Poole. The nursery run several extra‑curricular activities including before and after school clubs, cooking school, Boogie Mites, yoga, tooth brushing, football fun and much more!

Why You’ll Love Working with Us

At Tops Day Nurseries, we believe in rewarding our team for their hard work and dedication. Here are some of the fantastic benefits you’ll enjoy as part of our family.

• £700 Welcome Bonus to kick‑start your journey with us
• Relocation support of up to £3,000 (T&Cs apply) ** Welcome Bonus and Relocation packages are not cumulative
• Up to 60% childcare discount at Tops Day Nurseries
• Exclusive discounts & rewards via Blue Light Card and Each Person platform (gyms, cinema, shopping, travel & many more)
• Health & wellbeing support- NHS prescriptions, optical care & dental treatment
• A generous holiday allowance- including your birthday off & a wellbeing day!

What does the role involve?

• Responsible for overseeing a unit and assisting specialists in the nursery, such as Behaviour management representatives, SENCo, H&S rep, Equal opportunities etc.
• Ensure that suitable opportunities, activities and resources are provided for all the children relevant to their age/stage and development needs to the requirements of external organisations.
• Communicate with parents to ensure that all fees are paid and that parents are satisfied with the provision of care provided. You will also know how to operate a fees system including invoicing, collecting money, banking and reporting on financial targets.
• Ensure that all staff are supported in their training and development and their job satisfaction. Ensure that all staff are mentored /coached appropriately.
• Support the Nursery Manager and to manage the setting in Manager’s absence
• To be committed to the safeguarding of all children in the nursery and your direct care

What are we looking for?

• A minimum of a Level 3 Early Years Qualification is required.
• Experience in a leadership or supervisory role
• Strong knowledge of EYFS and Ofsted regulations
• Proven experience managing teams and working closely with parents

Important Safeguarding Information

Because this role involves regulated activity with children, all candidates must:

• Hold (or be willing to obtain) an enhanced DBS check registered on the Update Service. If you don’t yet have one, you’ll need to cover the cost.
• Be eligible to work in regulated roles- not on the Children’s Barred List.
• Successfully complete background and reference checks.

At Tops Day Nurseries, we are an equal opportunities employer, committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected.

Apply Now

Excited to make a difference? Take the next step in your career and join Tops Day Nurseries

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