Deputy Nursery Manager - Early Years

Interim Deputy Nursery Manager – Early Years

We are currently recruiting an experienced Interim Deputy Nursery Manager for a well‑established early years setting on a rolling placement. This is a full‑time, term‑time only role, ideal for a confident early years professional who can start as soon as possible.

This position is within an all‑ability setting; while SEND specialist experience is not required, the Interim Deputy Nursery Manager may work with children with additional needs as part of an inclusive environment.

Key Information

• Start Date: 2nd February
• Hours: 7:30am – 3:30pm
• Contract: Full time, term time only
• Salary: £27,000 per annum

The Role – Day‑to‑Day Duties

• Supporting the daily operational management of the nursery
• Working directly with children across the setting, remaining in ratio at all times
• Planning and delivering engaging, developmentally appropriate activities in line with the EYFS
• Supervising indoor and outdoor play and ensuring a safe, nurturing learning environment
• Working with all children, including those with SEND, ensuring inclusion and appropriate support
• Acting as a Key Worker, including:
  • Completing observations and assessments
  • Maintaining learning journeys
  • Monitoring progress and supporting next steps
• Ensuring safeguarding, health and safety, and welfare procedures are followed at all times
• Supporting staff with daily routines, best practice, and expectations
• Assisting with administrative and leadership duties, including:
  • Collection and monitoring of assessment data
  • Supporting planning, audits, and documentation
  • Assisting the Manager/Supervisor with assessments and reporting

Person Specification

• A relevant Early Years qualification, such as:
  • Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education (or equivalent)
  • Level 5 or above in Early Years, Childcare, or Leadership (desirable)
• Recent experience working within an early years or nursery setting
• Strong knowledge of the EYFS framework and child development
• A clear understanding of safeguarding responsibilities and procedures
• Experience as a Key Worker, including observations, assessments, and learning journeys
• Confidence supporting children with a range of needs, including SEND
• Confident working in a senior or leadership capacity while remaining hands‑on
• Strong organisational and communication skills
• Flexible, reliable, and adaptable in an interim role

Desirable

• Previous experience as a Interim Deputy Nursery Manager, Room Leader, Senior Practitioner, or EYFS Teacher
• Experience supporting inspections, audits, or internal quality assurance
• Confidence using early years assessment or tracking systems
• Ability to support, guide, and motivate staff as part of a team

Why Apply

• Leadership opportunity within a supportive early years environment as Interim Deputy Nursery Manager
• Term‑time only hours supporting work‑life balance
• Competitive salary for an interim post
• Opportunity to make an immediate impact