Nursery Deputy Manager

About the Job:

We are looking for a Nursery Deputy Manager to join our growing team. The ideal candidate will have at least 2 years of experience in a similar role. Please note this position is not primarily office-based, however, the Deputy Manager will need to spend some time in the office as and when required. The Nursery Manager will need to take charge of the nursery in the absence of the manager.

The ideal candidate will be able to:

• Work in partnership with the Nursery Manager ensuring the nursery runs smoothly in line with company policies, procedures and OFSTED regulations.
• Must have previous experience of OFSTED inspections and what is required during a visit.
• To lead and manage the nursery in the absence of your Nursery Manager as and when required.
• To support and develop staff members ensuring that they receive the support they require to effectively carry out their job roles. Such as mentoring, role modelling and carrying out peer observations.
• Continue to support the Nursery Manager in streamlining nursery practice and continue improvement and development.
• Fulfil the job role of Room Leader in the room in which you are based, see relevant Job Description.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• To be a passionate and driven member of the senior management team. To contribute to the staff team and the overall development of the nursery.
• To work with your Nursery Manager ensuring that the nursery adheres to all legal legislation, maintaining a safe environment and taking lead and responsibility as and when required.
• To lead and support with all aspects of the Key Person role, including initial visits, registration, day to day contact (care routines, observation, assessment and planning, parent feedback etc.), parent’s information sessions/evenings, transition etc. using the Early Years Foundation Stage Statutory Framework and Development Matters as a guide.
• To assist with practitioners’ CPD and training through induction, supervision and performance management.
• To assist the Nursery Manager in the recruitment and selection process as appropriate.
• To assist the Nursery Manager with the efficient preparation, maintenance and upkeep of the resources, materials, equipment and building. Reporting any concerns you may have to your Nursery Manager.
• To be aware of, understand and implement all performance management policies, procedures and action plans. Also to assist the Nursery Manager in monitoring, reviewing and evaluating practitioner’s compliance.
• To assist with the planning, organization, development and maintenance of all associated administrative tasks and paperwork such as First Steps, staffing schedules, occupancy, finance, collection of fees/outstanding fees, purchase ordering and health and safety etc.
• To work with the Nursery Management Team to ensure the safe, legal and good practice running of the nursery. Taking a lead role at certain times of the day including the opening and closing of the nursery, ensuring ratios are maintained at all times, dealing with parents, finances or complaints etc.
• To understand and adhere to our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy, including the Prevent Duty. To be aware of up-to-date legislation in relation to safeguarding. To act promptly and appropriately in matters relating to Safeguarding and Child Protection by referring to the Nursery Manager who is the lead safeguarding officer. In their absence, the Deputy Manager or the most senior member of staff will fulfil this role. To attend case conferences and core groups as required.
• To implement all our policies and procedures.
• To understand and implement the Early Years Foundation Stage Statutory Framework at all times, including supporting documents e.g. Development Matters and to support the nursery team to do this.
• To take ownership of the environment in which you work. Ensuring resources are looked after and well-stocked.
• To work in partnership with your Nursery Manager and the Head Office team to develop appropriate links that reflect the needs of the community.
• To act promptly and appropriately if a complaint of concern has been raised.
• To build and support teamwork and partnerships, both internally and externally, with parents/carers, colleagues and other professionals.
• To undertake such other duties and responsibilities of an equivalent nature, as may be determined by the Nursery Manager.

This job description sets out the main duties of the post at the date when it was drawn up. Such duties may vary from time to time without changing the general character of the post or the level of responsibilities. Such variations are a common occurrence and should be seen as developmental opportunities within your CPD framework.