Assistant Nursery Manager

Busy Bees Childcare; Brighton; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading childcare provider in Brighton is seeking an experienced leader for a Maternity Cover role to start in February 2026. The ideal candidate will have a Level 3 qualification in early years education and experience in leadership roles. Responsibilities include supporting daily operations, enhancing educational standards, and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. This position offers a competitive salary and numerous benefits including professional development opportunities.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Ongoing professional development and career progression

Up to 28 days holiday per year

50% childcare discount

Enhanced family leave and return-to-work bonus

Financial support through Salary Finance

Qualifications

• Experience within an early years setting, with leadership or supervisory experience ideally as either an Assistant Nursery Manager or Deputy Nursery Manager.
• Proven track record of ensuring educational excellence and curriculum development.
• Experience in maintaining compliance with regulatory standards and health and safety protocols.

Responsibilities

• Support the Centre Director in overseeing the daily operations and maintaining educational standards.
• Assist in developing and delivering an engaging, high-quality curriculum tailored to the needs of children.
• Ensure the centre complies with all relevant regulatory requirements and maintains high safety and health standards.

Skills

Leadership skills

Communication skills

Organisational skills

Education

Approved Level 3 qualification or above in early years education

Job description

This position is a Maternity Cover to start in February 2026

About Busy Bees

Busy Bees is the UK's leading nursery group, with nearly 400 nurseries across the UK and more overseas. We are dedicated to giving every child the best start in life and are proud to have won awards for our workplace culture. Every member of our team feels heard, valued, and nurtured.

Why Work at Busy Bees?

We offer a supportive environment that empowers you to create engaging, educational spaces where children can thrive. As part of our team, you'll be introduced to our unique Bee Curious curriculum designed to foster curiosity and confidence in young learners. Through our partnership with BBC Children in Need we provide opportunities for community involvement and fundraising to support children’s lives.

Our Nursery Cheam Nonsuch

Cheam Nonsuch is rated Good by Ofsted, has a capacity of 83 children, and features a long‑serving, friendly, and welcoming staff team. The nursery is conveniently located within walking distance of Nonsuch Park, Cheam Park, and Cheam station, with nearby bus services. We sit onsite with Nonsuch High School and David Lloyd Gym, and offer free parking for staff.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Ongoing professional development and career progression
• Our ‘Hive’ benefits and wellbeing hub, with discounts across a huge range of retailers
• Up to 28 days holiday per year (including bank holidays)
• Your birthday off – it’s our gift to you!
• 50% childcare discount
• Enhanced family leave and return‑to‑work bonus
• Menopause support through Peppy
• Financial support through Salary Finance
• Employee Assistance Programme and Mental Health First Aiders
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Easy access to your workplace pension through Cushon
• Discounted Private Medical Insurance (PMI)
• Opportunities to travel to other countries, experience different cultures and learn new practices
• Access to our Benefits and Wellbeing platform, Hive, offering huge retail discounts
• Wellbeing Hub featuring resources to support your physical and mental health
• A Celebrating You section showcasing the ways we recognise and reward our valued team members
• Dedicated Grow with Us area sharing training and development opportunities

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Centre Director in overseeing the daily operations and maintaining educational standards.
• Assist in developing and delivering an engaging, high-quality curriculum tailored to the needs of children.
• Ensure the centre complies with all relevant regulatory requirements and maintains high safety and health standards.
• Provide leadership and mentorship to staff, ensuring a cohesive and motivated team.
• Lead efforts to enhance customer satisfaction by delivering exceptional service and promoting a positive centre experience for families.
• Assist with administrative tasks, including scheduling, payroll, and recruitment.
• Manage operational records and support financial planning to ensure sustainability.

Ideal Candidate

• An approved Level 3 qualification or above in early years education.
• Experience within an early years setting, with leadership or supervisory experience ideally as either an Assistant Nursery Manager or Deputy Nursery Manager.
• Proven track record of ensuring educational excellence and curriculum development.
• Strong communication and organisational skills, with a focus on teamwork.
• Experience in maintaining compliance with regulatory standards and health and safety protocols.

Lead with passion and help create a nurturing learning environment – apply now!

Apply now to be part of our dynamic team and take the next step in your career.