Deputy Manager

Rising Stars Nurseries; Ovingdean; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 35,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free first month childcare

Up to 50% ongoing discount

Vitality medical insurance

28 days + Christmas closure + birthday

Pension contributions

Referral bonuses

Bereavement support

Free parking

Job summary

Rising Stars Nurseries in the United Kingdom is seeking a Deputy Nursery Manager to support the Nursery Manager in leadership, day-to-day operations and strategic planning. You will ensure the highest standards of care and education while prioritising safeguarding and staff development.

You will deputise in the Manager's absence, oversee staffing, parent communications and EYFS delivery, and ensure compliance with safeguarding, health and safety and Ofsted requirements.

Qualifications

• Minimum Level 3 in Childcare and Education.
• Paediatric First Aid certification.
• DSL-related training is desirable.
• Level 2 Food Hygiene is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Deputise for the Nursery Manager in their absence, overseeing daily operations, staffing and parent communications.
• Support and mentor staff to ensure high-quality practice.
• Assist with recruitment, induction, training and supervision.
• Maintain appropriate staff-to-child ratios at all times.
• Act as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead and manage safeguarding concerns.
• Oversee health, safety, risk assessments and fire drills.

Skills

Leadership

Staff management

Communication

EYFS knowledge

Ofsted knowledge

Child protection

Risk assessment

Education

Level 3 Childcare & Education

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.

?? Join us in creating something extraordinary in Early Years education ??

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.