Deputy Nursery Manager

Hays Specialist Recruitment - Education; Lewes; On-site; GBP 31,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

An independent nursery in Lewes seeks an experienced Deputy Manager to lead operations and maintain high standards of early years education. The role is ideal for Level 3 qualified practitioners looking to advance their careers. Enjoy a supportive environment with competitive pay and various staff benefits.

Benefits

28 days annual leave

Company pension

Health & wellbeing support

Mentoring programs

Flexible Working Options

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years experience in early years sector is essential.
• Confident and passionate about early years education.
• Knowledge of EYFS and statutory framework required.

Responsibilities

• Support the Manager in overseeing daily nursery operations.
• Lead the classroom team to ensure high standards of care and safety.
• Act as a key person, mentoring staff.

Skills

Leadership

Early Childhood Education

Mentoring

Education

Level 3 childcare qualification

Job description

Job Title – Nursery Deputy Manager
Location – Lewes
Salary – 31,000 – 33,500
Job Type – Permanent
Start Date – Summer 2025

Your new company

An independent, mid–sized nursery is looking for a senior and/or ambitious Level 3 nursery practitioner to join the team as a Deputy Manager.This is a fantastic opportunity to work with a supportive, team–oriented Manager in a high–quality learning environment that focuses on early childhood education and development. The pay is competitive, and the setting welcomes no more than 45 children per day, ensuring a nurturing and engaging atmosphere.Children of different ages mix together in a bright, homely classroom, with free–flow outdoor learning that fosters a relaxed, calm environment. The nursery also provides Forest School sessions in a nearby nature field, and children regularly explore local parks, gardens, and places of interest.This year–round role is ideal for someone already working as a Deputy Manager or a practitioner looking to take the next step in their career. Convenient on–site parking and strong public transport links make commuting easy from surrounding areas.

Your new role

As Deputy Manager, you will play a crucial role in leading the nursery and supporting the Manager in delivering outstanding early years education. This position is ideal for someone already working as a Deputy Manager or a Level 3–qualified practitioner looking to take the next step in their career.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Supporting the Manager in overseeing the daily operations of the nursery.
• Leading the classroom team, ensuring the highest standards of care, safety, and teaching.
• Acting as a key person, offering guidance and mentorship to staff.
• Deputising for the Manager when required, ensuring the smooth and safe running of the nursery.

What you'll need to succeed

• Minimum 2 years of experience in the early years sector.
• Level 3 childcare qualification is essential.
• A confident, articulate, and passionate approach to early years education.
• Knowledge of the EYFS and statutory framework.
• Experience leading a team.
• Forest School qualifications or an interest in Montessori education would be beneficial.

What you'll get in return

• Competitive pay.
• 28 days annual leave.
• Comprehensive induction and ongoing training.
• Company pension.
• A range of staff benefits, including health & wellbeing support, mentoring programs, and more.
• Flexible Working Options

What you need to do now

If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up–to–date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.

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