Nursery Deputy Manager

RAFA Kidz Ltd; Medmenham; On-site; GBP 31,000 - 38,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Enhanced childcare discount

Healthcare cash back

Virtual GP

Wellbeing support + gym discount

Refer a Friend bonuses

Generous leave

Discounts on household bills

Transfer opportunities

Career development

Job summary

RAFAKidz Nursery in Medmenham is seeking a Nursery Deputy Manager to lead and support a dedicated team in delivering high-quality early years education. You will work closely with the Nursery Manager to create a warm, safe, and stimulating environment where children flourish.

Ideal candidates hold a Level 3 Early Years qualification with Paediatric First Aid, demonstrate leadership in a nursery setting, and have strong knowledge of EYFS, safeguarding, and health & safety.

Qualifications

• 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.
• Good understanding of the EYFS and a commitment to delivering high-quality learning experiences.
• Strong safeguarding knowledge, health and safety, and children's wellbeing.
• Ability to build warm, positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues.
• Caring, enthusiastic, child-centred approach; passion for outstanding care and helping every child reach potential.

Responsibilities

• Support and develop the nursery team and lead by example.
• Work closely with the Nursery Manager to ensure highest quality care and learning experiences for children.
• Contribute to the smooth running of the nursery and celebrate children's achievements.
• Develop colleagues and maintain a warm, welcoming environment for families and children.

Skills

Leadership

Team development

Safeguarding knowledge

Relationship-building

Education

Level 3 Early Years qualification

Paediatric First Aid Certificate

Job description

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 forA full and relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification and a current Paediatric First Aid CertificateExperience 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 makeMaking 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.

Nursery Deputy Manager

Company: RAFA Kidz Ltd Salary: £34,402 to £34,402 a year Hours: Full-time Location: Medmenham, SL7 2EH Working pattern: On-site Job type: Contract Posting date: 5 Nov 2026 Closing date: 2 Dec 2026

Summary

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