At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage a vibrant early-years programme for families with children aged 0-5.
- Company: Join Babyzone, a community-focused initiative making a real difference.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact in the community while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in team management and a passion for early years education.
- Other info: Hybrid working options and opportunities for professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Reports to: Head of Babyzone Hammersmith & Fulham
Salary: £30,000 pro-rata
Hours: 1.5 days per week (term-time only) to include delivery day on Tuesdays (8:15am – 3:15pm)
Location: West Youth Zone (W12 7TF) for delivery day + remote working
The Role
Babyzone H&F is a thriving early‐years initiative supporting families with children aged 0–5 years. We are looking for an experienced, hands‐on and collaborative Deputy Head to help lead the growth and day‐to‐day delivery of the programme. Working at the heart of our community offer, you will support the Head of Babyzone H&F in shaping high‐quality sessions, strengthening family engagement, and ensuring that our work consistently reflects Babyzone's inclusive, evidence‐informed approach.
Key Responsibilities
- Leadership and Team Management
- Recruit and manage a high calibre and motivated Babyzone team, ensuring they consistently demonstrate the high standards of service, conscientiousness and transparency you set;
- Act as the main point of contact for operational problem‐solving risk management and safeguarding;
- Work collaboratively with all Babyzone staff, trustees and partners;
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with local stakeholders such as the council, other charities, and the local WOW World Group delivery team.
- Delivery and Operations
- Develop and refine the H&F Babyzone offer so that it meets national standards while reflecting the specific needs of local families.
- Coordinate set‐up, free‐play, classes and close‐down alongside class leaders to ensure:
- Timely opening and closing of sessions;
- Adequate staffing levels in all areas;
- Safe, welcoming and high‐quality delivery across all spaces;
- Oversee external contractors and manage Babyzone equipment to ensure safe and high‐quality use.
- Ensure the Youth Zone is returned to its original layout in time for the afternoon session, with all rooms cleared of any evidence of Babyzone activities.
- Ensure accurate and timely data collection, monitoring and reporting in line with Babyzone and funder requirements.
- Lead local marketing and outreach initiatives to ensure Babyzone reaches as many target families as possible.
- Build strong relationships with early years organisations and networks in the area, positioning Babyzone as a hub for early years thought, practice and collaboration.
- Plan and coordinate special events to:
- Widen Babyzone's offer;
- Create variety and richness in activities;
- Generate content and interest that supports strong attendance and engagement.
- Supervise and guide additional volunteers, apprentices, or support staff as necessary;
- Respond to and action reasonable requests from the Head of Babyzone H&F, national management team or Board of Trustees;
- Invoice and payroll management.
Skills and Technical Competencies
- Leadership and Team Management
- Strong leadership and interpersonal skills to manage and motivate a diverse team;
- Set clear performance targets for your team and support them in achieving them in a timely fashion;
- Effective coaching skills to facilitate professional development within your team.
- Work Approach and Adaptability
- Flexible approach with the ability to work autonomously and as part of a growing team.
- Communication and Stakeholder Management
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Technical literacy
- Experience with Microsoft Office 365 (Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
- Experience with project management.
Value alignment
A passion for the Babyzone mission and a commitment to making a positive impact in the community.
Employee Benefits
- Flexible, supportive working environment.
- Hybrid working for hours that are not within the Babyzone delivery day.
- Potential to claim additional hours in non-term time periods, where needed.
- Pension contribution, life insurance and employee assistance programme.
- 26 days annual leave (pro rata).
To Apply
Please send a cover letter and your CV to jessica@babyzone.org.uk. Applications close: 30th November 2025. Interviews: Week commencing 1st December 2025.
Deputy Head of Babyzone - Hammersmith & Fulham in London employer: Babyzone
Contact Detail:
Babyzone Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Head of Babyzone - Hammersmith & Fulham in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the early years sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a Deputy Head role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in local community events related to early years education. This not only boosts your visibility but also helps you build relationships with stakeholders, which is key for a role like this. Plus, it shows your commitment to the Babyzone mission!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your leadership and team management skills. Think of examples from your past experiences that showcase how you've motivated teams and handled challenges. We want to see that you can lead with confidence!
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining the Babyzone family and making a positive impact in the community.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Head of Babyzone - Hammersmith & Fulham in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your relevant experience and passion for early years education. We want to see how you can contribute to Babyzone's mission, so be genuine and enthusiastic!
Tailor Your CV: Don’t just send the same CV for every job. Tailor it to reflect the skills and experiences that align with the Deputy Head role. Use keywords from the job description to show us you’re a perfect fit for our team!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this role involves managing a team, make sure to include examples of your leadership experience. We love to see how you've motivated others and handled challenges in previous roles!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss any important updates. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Babyzone
✨Know Your Babyzone Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand Babyzone's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their programmes and how they engage with families. This will help you demonstrate your passion for the role and show that you're aligned with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Think about specific situations where you motivated your team or resolved conflicts. Highlight your coaching abilities and how you've supported professional development, as these are key for the Deputy Head role.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Be ready to discuss how you've built relationships with local stakeholders in previous roles. Share your strategies for effective communication and collaboration, especially with councils and charities. This will show that you can strengthen Babyzone's community ties.
✨Prepare for Operational Challenges
Anticipate questions about operational problem-solving and risk management. Think of scenarios where you've had to coordinate activities or manage resources effectively. Being able to articulate your approach to ensuring safe and high-quality delivery will set you apart.