Deputy Nursery Manager

Royal Hospital School; England; Remote; GBP 26,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary review

Professional development

School fee discount

Annual leave

Refer a friend £750

Health cash plan

Employee Assistance Programme

Job summary

Royal Hospital School invites applications for a Deputy Nursery Manager to lead and support the newly opened nursery within the school grounds. You will work closely with the Nursery Manager to ensure happy, secure beginnings for our youngest learners and drive quality in learning and safeguarding.

Ideal candidates will hold a Level 3 Childcare qualification, have recent childcare experience, and demonstrate strong EYFS knowledge, planning, and communication skills.

Qualifications

• Full and relevant Level 3 Childcare qualification in early years as a minimum.
• Recent experience in a childcare setting.
• Great passion for child development and knowledge of EYFS 0-5 years curriculum.
• Experience in a Senior EYP or Deputy Manager role.
• Excellent knowledge of EYFS and Ofsted guidance.

Responsibilities

• Support the day-to-day running of the nursery.
• Assist with staff training and development.
• Maintain accurate records including occupancy for growth.
• Promote nursery values to staff, parents and children.
• Deliver high standards of childcare and effective team collaboration.

Skills

EYFS knowledge

Childcare experience

Leadership/Deputy role

Ofsted guidance

Safeguarding

Communication

Planning & organisation

Teamwork

Education

Level 3 Childcare qualification

Job description

We are currently looking to appoint a Deputy Nursery Manager to support the leadership of our nursery at Royal Hospital School.

Our newly opened nursery is based in its own purpose-designed space within the beautiful school grounds, providing a nurturing environment for our youngest pupils. We believe that for children to become successful learners, they need to feel happy, safe and secure in their everyday learning world.

The Royal Hospital School is a beacon of educational excellence. A co-educational boarding and day school for pupils aged 11 to 18, RHS provides a broad and balanced education within a distinctive and supportive environment.

Rooted in its rich naval heritage, RHS has evolved into a progressive and innovative school, equipping pupils with the skills, confidence and character needed to thrive in the 21st century.

We are seeking a Deputy Nursery Manager to help drive the progress and development of our Nursery. Working closely with the Nursery Manager, you’ll play a key role in giving our pupils a happy, confident start to their learning journey. Prior deputy experience is beneficial but not essential. You’ll support the day‑to‑day running of the nursery, so knowledge of financial processes, recruitment, and staff development would be an advantage.

We are looking for a fantastic deputy nursery manager who can;

• Demonstrate excellent practice in delivering the Early Years curriculum.
• Promote the values of the Nursery for all staff, parents and children.
• Develop and maintain excellent working relationships with all staff.
• Assist with the maintenance of accurate records including occupancy to ensure growth and development.
• Assist with training and development of staff to fulfil their potential.
• The successful Deputy Nursery Manager should be passionate about all areas of children’s learning.

Applicants should demonstrate the following qualifications & experiences:

• Full and relevant Level 3 Childcare qualification in early years as a minimum.
• Have recent experience within a childcare setting.
• Great passion for child development and a good working knowledge of the EYFS 0-5 years curriculum.
• Experience of working in a Senior EYP or Deputy Manager role.
• Excellent knowledge of the EYFS and Ofsted statutory guidance.
• Knowledge of Child Protection and Safeguarding.
• Knowledge and proven practical experience of implementing good quality learning opportunities.
• Ability to deliver a high standard of childcare.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work productively with pupils, colleagues, parents and outside agencies.
• Excellent planning, organisation and time management skills.
• A good understanding for how a Nursery works.
• Excellent communication skills and able to work effectively in a team.

As well as joining an outstanding team of colleagues at Royal Hospital School as part of the Inspired Learning Group you will also benefit from;

• Annual salary review
• Professional development and training opportunities with the prospect of career and salary progression as our business grows
• School fee discount
• Annual leave inclusive of Bank Holidays increasing with service
• Refer a friend scheme up to £750
• Health cash plan covering 10 healthcare benefits and services such as optical, dental, dental accident, chiropody, therapy treatments and health club concession. Access to Doctor line from anywhere in the world.
• Employee Assistance Programme

If you are an experienced Deputy Nursery Manager looking to take on a new and exciting opportunity or a Senior Practitioner for progression this could be the role for you.

Closing date for applications: 09:00 on Friday 30 October 2026

Early application is encouraged, as applications will be considered as they are received. The organisation reserves the right to close the vacancy early if a suitable candidate is appointed.

The Royal Hospital School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all employees and volunteers to share our commitment. Employment is subject to satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS check.

This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974.