Deputy Nursery Manager Early Years

Equitas Group; Elsfield; On-site; GBP 27,000; Full time

Job summary

A well-established early years setting in the UK is looking for an experienced Interim Deputy Nursery Manager. This full-time, term-time only position includes supporting operational management, engaging directly with children, and ensuring an inclusive environment. The ideal candidate will have a relevant early years qualification and experience in a senior role. Competitive salary offered. This role is perfect for those looking to make an immediate impact in a supportive environment.

Benefits

Term-time only hours

Leadership opportunity

Competitive salary

Qualifications

• Recent experience in an early years or nursery setting.
• Experience as a Key Worker with observations and assessments.
• Clear understanding of safeguarding responsibilities.

Responsibilities

• Support daily operational management of the nursery.
• Plan and deliver activities in line with EYFS.
• Supervise play and ensure safe learning environment.

Skills

Strong knowledge of the EYFS framework

Organisational skills

Communication skills

Flexibility

Confidence supporting children with SEND

Education

Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education

Level 5 in Early Years or Childcare (desirable)

Job description

Interim Deputy Nursery Manager - Early Years

We are currently recruiting an experienced Interim Deputy Nursery Manager for a well‑established early years setting on a rolling placement. This is a full‑time, term‑time only role, ideal for a confident early years professional who can start as soon as possible.

This position is within an all‑ability setting; while SEND specialist experience is not required, the Interim Deputy Nursery Manager may work with children with additional needs as part of an inclusive environment.

Key Information

• Start Date: 2nd February
• Hours: 7:30am - 3:30pm
• Contract: Full time, term time only
• Salary: £27,000 per annum

The Role - Day‑to‑Day Duties

• Supporting the daily operational management of the nursery
• Working directly with children across the setting, remaining in ratio at all times
• Planning and delivering engaging, developmentally appropriate activities in line with the EYFS
• Supervising indoor and outdoor play and ensuring a safe, nurturing learning environment
• Working with all children, including those with SEND, ensuring inclusion and appropriate support
• Acting as a Key Worker, including:
  • Completing observations and assessments
  • Maintaining learning journeys
  • Monitoring progress and supporting next steps
• Ensuring safeguarding, health and safety, and welfare procedures are followed at all times
• Supporting staff with daily routines, best practice, and expectations
• Assisting with administrative and leadership duties, including:
  • Collection and monitoring of assessment data
  • Supporting planning, audits, and documentation
  • Assisting the Manager/Supervisor with assessments and reporting

Person Specification

• A relevant Early Years qualification, such as:
  • Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education (or equivalent)
  • Level 5 or above in Early Years, Childcare, or Leadership (desirable)
• Recent experience working within an early years or nursery setting
• Strong knowledge of the EYFS framework and child development
• A clear understanding of safeguarding responsibilities and procedures
• Experience as a Key Worker, including observations, assessments, and learning journeys
• Confidence supporting children with a range of needs, including SEND
• Confident working in a senior or leadership capacity while remaining hands‑on
• Strong organisational and communication skills
• Flexible, reliable, and adaptable in an interim role

Desirable

• Previous experience as a Interim Deputy Nursery Manager, Room Leader, Senior Practitioner, or EYFS Teacher
• Experience supporting inspections, audits, or internal quality assurance
• Confidence using early years assessment or tracking systems
• Ability to support, guide, and motivate staff as part of a team

Why Apply

• Leadership opportunity within a supportive early years environment as Interim Deputy Nursery Manager
• Term‑time only hours supporting work‑life balance
• Competitive salary for an interim post
• Opportunity to make an immediate impact