Deputy Manager of Nursery

Twinkle Totz Day Nursery Ltd.; Northolt; On-site; GBP 22,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

A children's nursery in Northolt seeks a skilled Deputy Manager to support the Nursery Manager and ensure the smooth operation of the facility. The ideal candidate will hold a Level 3 qualification in Early Years or Childcare and possess strong leadership and communication skills. You'll oversee educational programs, manage staff, and engage with parents. This full-time, permanent position offers an opportunity to contribute to a nurturing environment for children's development.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a senior nursery role such as Deputy Manager or Room Leader.
• Strong understanding of safeguarding and Ofsted requirements.
• Experience supporting inspections and leading teams is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Support the Nursery Manager in daily operations of the nursery.
• Lead staff teams and supervise room leaders.
• Monitor and support children's progress and development.
• Build positive relationships with parents and community.
• Maintain compliance with health, safety, and safeguarding standards.

Skills

Excellent communication skills

Leadership

Organisational skills

Understanding of EYFS

Proactive approach

Education

Level 3 qualification in Early Years/Childcare

Job description

About Us

We are a warm, welcoming, and high‑quality early years setting dedicated to providing outstanding care and education for children. We are looking for an enthusiastic and experienced Deputy Manager to join our team and support the Nursery Manager in the day‑to‑day running of the nursery.

Role Overview

As the Deputy Manager, you will play a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of the nursery, leading staff teams, supporting children’s development, and maintaining a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment. You will act as the Manager in their absence and help drive continuous improvement across the setting.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Support the Nursery Manager in the effective daily running of the nursery.
• Ensure compliance with all Ofsted, EYFS and safeguarding requirements.
• Lead staff meetings, supervise room leaders, and assist with rotas and staffing ratios.
• Oversee planning and delivery of high‑quality educational programmes.

Childcare & Curriculum

• Promote best practice in teaching, learning, and child development.
• Ensure all children’s individual needs and interests are met.
• Monitor and track children’s progress, supporting assessment and key‑person responsibilities.
• Maintain a safe, stimulating, and inclusive environment.

Staff Management

• Support recruitment, training, coaching, and performance management of staff.
• Inspire and motivate the team to deliver exceptional childcare.
• Conduct supervision meetings and contribute to staff development plans.

Parent & Community Engagement

• Build positive relationships with parents and carers.
• Communicate effectively regarding children’s progress, wellbeing, and nursery events.
• Support parent tours and contribute to maintaining occupancy levels.

Administration & Compliance

• Assist with paperwork, policies, risk assessments, and reporting.
• Ensure health and safety, safeguarding, and confidentiality standards are consistently upheld.
• Help maintain accurate records, registers, and documentation.

Person Specification

Essential

• Level 3 (or above) qualification in Early Years/Childcare.
• Previous experience in a senior nursery role (e.g., Room Leader, Third in Charge, Deputy Manager).
• Strong understanding of EYFS, safeguarding and Ofsted requirements.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and organisational skills.
• A positive, supportive, and proactive approach.

Desirable

• First Aid and Safeguarding training.
• Experience supporting inspections or leading teams.
• Knowledge of SEN procedures.

We hire directly and do not use agencies.

Job Types: Full‑time, Permanent