Nursery Deputy Manager

The-Learning-Experience-4b17818; Leatherhead; On-site; GBP 41,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension scheme

Life insurance

PerkBox discounts

Staff events

24–22 days annual leave

Job summary

The Learning Experience UK is seeking a Nursery Deputy Manager to lead a caring, stimulating environment for children while upholding EYFS standards. You will mentor staff, support the Centre Director, and act as safeguarding lead to ensure high-quality care and education.

Join a forward-thinking nursery that values development, family partnerships, and professional growth through ongoing training and responsibilities aligned with a leadership role.

Qualifications

• EYFS knowledge and safeguarding compliance
• Experience in early years leadership roles preferred
• Proven ability to mentor and develop staff

Responsibilities

• Support the Centre Director in daily operations and leadership.
• Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead (Level 3) ensuring child safety.
• Model outstanding early years practice and learning environments.
• Lead, mentor, and motivate the team to deliver high-quality care and education.
• Conduct supervisions, 1:1s and appraisals, supporting staff training.
• Build partnerships with families and support occupancy growth.
• Ensure EYFS, safeguarding and health & safety standards compliance.
• Step up as acting Centre Director when required.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Mentoring staff

Staff development

Flexibility

Education

Level 3 childcare qualification (or above)

Paediatric First Aid certification

Tools

ICT systems

Job description

Nursery Deputy Manager at The Learning Experience UK

At The Learning Experience, happiness is at the heart of everything we do. We create inspiring nurseries where children can learn, play, and grow in safe, stimulating environments.

About Us

We are looking for a Nursery Deputy Manager who will act as a TLE Happiness Ambassador – supporting our world‑class curriculum, mentoring staff, and building trusted relationships with families.

What We Offer

• Up to £45,000 per year
• Competitive benefits package
• 22 days annual leave + bank holidays (plus loyalty days)
• PerkBox – discounts & wellness perks
• Life insurance & AVIVA pension scheme
• Company-funded staff events
• Ongoing professional development and training

Eligibility: The successful candidate must have the legal right to work in the UK prior to commencing employment. Please note that this role is not eligible for employer-sponsored work authorization now or in the future.

The Role

As Deputy Manager, you will:

• Support the Centre Director in daily operations and leadership.
• Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead (Level 3), ensuring child safety and welfare.
• Model outstanding early years practice and create inspiring learning environments indoors and outdoors.
• Lead, mentor, and motivate the team to deliver high-quality care and education.
• Conduct supervisions, 1:1s and appraisals, supporting staff training and development.
• Build positive partnerships with families and support occupancy growth.
• Ensure compliance with EYFS, safeguarding, and health & safety standards.
• Step up as acting Centre Director when required.

About You

• Previous experience in the Early Years sector, ideally as a Room Leader/Third In Charge/Deputy Manager or equivalent.
• Sound knowledge of EYFS, safeguarding, and child protection.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Flexible, adaptable, and able to support change.
• Full and relevant Level 3 childcare qualification (or above).
• Current Paediatric First Aid certification.
• Experience mentoring and inducting staff.
• Confident using ICT systems and learning new tools.

Why Join Us?

This is an exciting opportunity to step into a leadership role where you’ll make a real difference every day. As a TLE Deputy Manager, you’ll be part of a supportive, forward-thinking organisation that values its people as much as its families.