Deputy Manager

HealthJobs4U Ltd; Greater London; On-site; GBP 31,500 - 35,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free first month childcare perks

Up to 50% ongoing discount

Vitality private health insurance

28 days holiday + Christmas closure +b

Pension contributions

Referral bonuses

Bereavement support

Free parking on-site

Job summary

HealthJobs4U Ltd is seeking a Deputy Nursery Manager to support the Nursery Manager in leading day-to-day operations, safeguarding, and strategic management of the nursery. You will help deliver high standards of care and education while ensuring strong partnerships with families.

You will deputise in the Manager's absence, manage staff, supervise Room Leaders and Practitioners, and ensure EYFS delivery meets every child’s needs in a supportive, collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum Level 3 qualification in Childcare and Education (or equivalent).
• Paediatric First Aid Certificate.
• Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate (Desirable).
• Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) training (Desirable).

Responsibilities

• Deputise for the Nursery Manager in their absence, overseeing daily operations, staffing, and parent communications.
• Support and mentor Room Leaders and Nursery Practitioners to ensure high-quality practice.
• Assist with staff recruitment, induction, training, and supervision meetings.
• Ensure appropriate staff-to-child ratios are maintained at all times.
• Oversee safeguarding, risk assessments, and health & safety compliance.
• Oversee EYFS curriculum planning and delivery; monitor progress including SEND needs.
• Build strong relationships with parents and carers; conduct nursery tours as needed.

Skills

Communication

Leadership

Resilience

Education

Level 3 Childcare & Education

Paediatric First Aid

Level 2 Food Hygiene

DSL training (Desirable)

Job description

Responsible to

Manager

Pay Scale: £31,500 to £35,000

Purpose of the job: To assist the Nursery Manager in the professional leadership, day-to-day operations, and strategic management of the nursery. You will ensure the delivery of the highest standards of care and education while prioritizing safeguarding. In the Manager’s absence, you will assume full responsibility for the nursery's operations.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Management

• Deputise for the Nursery Manager in their absence, overseeing daily operations, staffing, and parent communications.
• Support and mentor Room Leaders and Nursery Practitioners to ensure consistent, high-quality practice.
• Assist with staff recruitment, induction, training, and regular supervision/appraisal meetings.
• Ensure appropriate staff-to-child ratios are maintained at all times.

Safeguarding & Health & Safety

• Act as the Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), ensuring all child protection concerns are managed appropriately.
• Ensure a safe, secure, and hygienic environment is maintained indoors and outdoors.
• Manage risk assessments, fire drills, and compliance with health and safety policies.
• Oversee the administration of medication and accurate record-keeping.

Childcare & Education

• Oversee the planning and delivery of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum.
• Ensure all children are making progress and that individual needs (including SEND) are met.
• Model excellent practice by working directly with the children, acting as a key person when required.

Partnerships with Parents & Community

• Build and maintain strong, trusting relationships with parents and carers.
• Handle inquiries, conduct nursery tours for prospective families, and manage parental feedback.

Person Specification

Qualifications

• Minimum Level 3 qualification in Childcare and Education (or equivalent).
• Paediatric First Aid Certificate.
• Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate (Desirable).
• Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) training (Desirable).

Experience & Knowledge

• Proven experience in a supervisory or Room Leader role within an early years setting.
• Comprehensive working knowledge of the EYFS and Ofsted statutory frameworks.
• Strong understanding of child protection procedures and equal opportunities.

Skills & Attributes

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong leadership abilities with the capability to motivate and inspire a team.
• Ability to work under pressure and use personal initiative.

Family Benefits

• Childcare Perks: FREE first month + up to 50% ongoing discount
• Private Health: Vitality medical insurance (T&Cs apply)
• Holiday Excellence: 28 days + Christmas closure + birthday off!

Professional Perks

• Pension Contributions: Secure your future
• Referral Bonuses: Cash rewards for successful recommendations
• Bereavement Support: Compassionate leave policy
• Free Parking: On-site at both locations

This role offers immediate start for the right candidate.

This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (1974) and does require a criminal records check. Applicants must be prepared to disclose any convictions they may have and any orders which have been made against them.