(ME) Nursery Deputy Manager

RAF Association; Medmenham; On-site; GBP 31,000 - 38,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Enhanced childcare discount

Healthcare cash back

Free virtual GP

Health and Stress Support

Gym discount

Refer a Friend bonus payments

Generous leave

Group Associate Membership

Guaranteed transfer to another nursery

Career development opportunities

Job summary

RAF Association’s RAFAKidz Nursery in Medmenham is seeking a Deputy Manager to lead the nursery team, work alongside the Nursery Manager, and ensure exceptional care and learning experiences for children. You will support colleagues, build strong family relationships, and drive quality in a busy, community-focused setting.

You will hold a Level 3 Early Years qualification with Paediatric First Aid, demonstrate safeguarding expertise, and embrace a child-centred, inclusive approach to every day’s

Qualifications

• Level 3 Early Years qualification is required.
• Paediatric First Aid Certificate is required.

Responsibilities

• Lead by example and support others to grow within the nursery.
• Build warm relationships with children, families and colleagues, and support the smooth running of the nursery.
• Ensure every child receives high-quality care and development experiences with strong EYFS practice.

Skills

Leadership in nursery

EYFS knowledge

Safeguarding knowledge

Relationship building

Child wellbeing

Child-centred approach

Education

Level 3 Early Years qualification

Paediatric First Aid Certificate

Job description

Nursery Deputy Manager – Marlow

RAFAKidz Nursery, Medmenham SL7 2EH

£34402 38 hours per week over 4 days

Up to 12 months Maternity Cover

What you can expect from us

• Enhanced childcare discount of 40% for permanent employees
• Healthcare cash back for you and your children to cover prescription, dental and optician costs
• Free access to virtual GP
• Health and Stress Support plus gym discount
• Unlimited Refer a Friend bonus payments
• Generous leave with time off to relax and recharge over the Christmas period up to early January
• Group Associate Membership – savings and discounts on household bills and more!
• Guaranteed transfer to another nursery (for spouses and families being reassigned)
• Investment in your career development – you could be our next Nursery Manager

RAFAKidz is a multi-award-winning nursery group located on, or close to, RAF and MOD stations across the UK, As the charity that supports the RAF community, RAFAKidz was designed to meet the needs of military and civilian families in the community around an RAF station, providing affordable and quality childcare. This means RAFAKidz is focused providing a high-quality service rather than making commercial profit.

Every day, in every one of our nurseries, we provide a nurturing environment where children feel safe, valued, and inspired to explore the world around them. By working closely with families and fostering a strong sense of belonging, we create caring, inclusive communities where children are encouraged to be themselves, build meaningful relationships, and flourish every step of the way. Many of our nurseries also offer unique learning environments, including sensory rooms, allotments, and Forest School activities, giving children the opportunity to explore, discover, and learn through nature, play, and hands-on experiences.

At RAFAKidz, we know that caring for children takes talented, dedicated, and compassionate people. That’s why we’re committed to nurturing our colleagues just as much as the children in our care. We recognise that everyone’s journey is different, and we take the time to support the individual needs, strengths, and aspirations of each member of our team. Whether you’re looking for a new opportunity or returning to the profession after a break, you’ll find a warm welcome and a supportive environment where you can thrive. Through ongoing training, development opportunities, and encouragement every step of the way, we help our practitioners build rewarding careers, grow in confidence, and achieve their ambitions. At RAFAKidz, you’ll be part of a team where you are valued, supported, and inspired to make a real difference every day.

As a Nursery Deputy Manager, you'll help create a warm, welcoming environment where children feel happy, safe, and inspired to learn. Working closely with the Nursery Manager, you'll support and encourage your team, build strong relationships with families, and help ensure every child receives the highest quality care and learning experiences. From celebrating children's achievements to developing your colleagues and supporting the smooth running of the nursery, every day is an opportunity to make a positive difference.

What we’re looking for

• A full and relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification and a current Paediatric First Aid Certificate
• Experience supporting, guiding, or leading colleagues within a senior role in a nursery environment.
• A strong understanding of the EYFS and a commitment to delivering high-quality learning experiences.
• Good knowledge of safeguarding, child protection, health and safety, and children's wellbeing.
• The ability to build warm, positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues.
• A caring, enthusiastic, and child-centred approach.
• A genuine passion for providing outstanding care and helping every child reach their full potential.

This role would suit someone who leads by example, enjoys supporting others to grow, and takes pride in creating a happy, welcoming environment where children can learn, develop, and flourish.

The difference you will make

• Making a positive difference to children's lives every day.
• Supporting and developing a dedicated team.
• Building meaningful relationships with families.
• Seeing children grow in confidence and achieve new milestones.
• Having a varied role that combines leadership, childcare, and operational responsibility.

The role requires an Enhanced DBS Certificate.

The RAF Association is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer. If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.