Nursery Deputy Manager

PhysioPulse Recruitment; Clemsfold; On-site; GBP 27,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is seeking a passionate Nursery Deputy Manager for a nursery in Horsham, West Sussex. The role involves supporting the Nursery Manager in daily operations, leading the EYFS curriculum, and ensuring high safeguarding standards. Candidates must hold a Level 3 Early Years qualification and possess experience in early years settings. The salary ranges from £27,000 to £36,000 per annum, and the position offers opportunities for ongoing professional development and career progression.

Benefits

Ongoing professional development

Supportive leadership team

Opportunities for career progression

Qualifications

• Essential Level 3 Early Years qualification.
• Strong knowledge of the EYFS framework is crucial.
• Experience in early years settings is needed.

Responsibilities

• Deputise for the Nursery Manager in daily operations.
• Support delivery of the EYFS curriculum.
• Act as nursery SENCO and liaise with agencies.

Skills

Knowledge of EYFS statutory framework

Staff leadership

Basic IT systems

Child safeguarding

Education

Level 3 Early Years qualification or equivalent

Job description

Nursery Deputy Manager - (Horsham, West Sussex - RH12)

Job type: Permanent, full-time

Salary: 27,000 - 36,000 p/a (DOE)

Are you a passionate Deputy Manager ready to make a real impact in an early years setting?

We are looking for a dedicated and experienced Nursery Deputy Manager to support the Nursery Manager in the day-to-day leadership and operation of the nursery. This is a key role for someone who is committed to high-quality early years education, strong safeguarding practice, and creating a nurturing, stimulating environment where children and staff can thrive.

You will deputise in the Nursery Manager's absence, support the delivery of the EYFS curriculum, act as the nursery SENCO, and assist with safeguarding responsibilities as a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL).

Key Responsibilities

• Deputise for the Nursery Manager and support the daily running of the nursery
• Support the leadership and delivery of the EYFS curriculum across all rooms
• Act as the nursery SENCO and liaise with external professionals and agencies
• Support safeguarding and child protection responsibilities
• Ensure compliance with EYFS, Ofsted, and statutory requirements
• Build positive relationships with parents and carers
• Support staff with observations, assessments, and progress tracking
• Maintain accurate and confidential records for all children
• Promote a safe, clean, and stimulating learning environment
• Support staff development, training, and performance

Qualifications & Experience

• Level 3 Early Years qualification (or equivalent) - essential
• Strong knowledge of the EYFS statutory framework
• Experience supporting or leading staff in an early years setting
• Confident using basic IT systems and digital record-keeping tools

Training & Compliance

• Paediatric First Aid (or willingness to obtain)
• Safeguarding and child protection training
• Willingness to attend CPD, staff meetings, and INSET days
• Enhanced DBS check required (employer funded)

Salary & Benefits

• Competitive salary, dependent on experience (£27,000 - £36,000 p/a)
• Ongoing professional development and training
• Supportive leadership team
• Many opportunities for career progression

Great journeys start here, apply now