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- Tasks: Support the Nursery Manager in delivering exceptional early years education and care.
- Company: Shepherds Hill Nursery, a nature-loving team in London’s countryside.
- Benefits: Access to outdoor learning training, supportive team environment, and career growth.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and inspire young minds in a unique outdoor setting.
- Qualifications: Level 3 qualification in Early Years and at least 2 years’ experience required.
- Other info: Opportunity to lead and innovate in a nurturing, child-centred environment.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Whether you are an old hand or new to outdoor play and learning, Shepherds Hill Nursery might be the breath of fresh air that you are looking for. Combining a deep and genuine connection with children and the joy of nature right here in London's countryside, we have passed nearly 20 years proving that the best classrooms don't have walls. We’re now looking for a deputy manager to join our small but mighty team: someone who shares our love of the outdoors, believes in our ethos, and is excited to bring fresh ideas to our Early Years setting. There is the potential for the right candidate to access outdoor learning or Forest Schools training opportunities.
Job Purpose
To support the Nursery Manager in delivering high-quality early years education and care in line with the EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage), safeguarding requirements, and nursery policies. The Deputy Manager will help lead and inspire the team, contribute to strategic planning, and ensure that all children receive exceptional care and learning experiences.
Key Responsibilities
- Leadership and Management
- Support the Nursery Manager in day-to-day operations of the setting.
- Act as Manager in their absence.
- Supervise and mentor staff, including leading team meetings and performance reviews.
- Contribute to the recruitment, induction, and ongoing training of staff.
- Ensure staff adhere to policies, procedures, and statutory frameworks.
- Childcare and Education
- Ensure the highest standards of care, learning, and development for all children.
- Oversee planning, observations, and assessments in line with the EYFS.
- Support the development of individual learning plans and inclusive practices.
- Promote a child-centred approach and support key person responsibilities.
- Health, Safety & Safeguarding
- Maintain a safe, clean, and stimulating environment.
- Ensure compliance with safeguarding procedures and promote children’s welfare.
- Carry out risk assessments and ensure health and safety standards are upheld.
- Be a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) or support the DSL role.
- Communication & Partnership
- Develop strong partnerships with parents/carers and provide regular feedback.
- Liaise with outside agencies as required to support children’s development.
- Promote positive relationships within the team and with external stakeholders.
- Administrative Duties
- Support the Manager with maintaining records and documentation, including attendance, incidents, assessments, and inspections.
- Assist with funding claims, staff rotas, holidays, planning.
- Ensure readiness for Ofsted inspections and contribute to self-evaluation and action planning.
Person Specification
Essential
- Level 3 (or above) qualification in Early Years/Childcare.
- At least 2 years’ experience in an early years setting.
- Strong knowledge of the EYFS and safeguarding legislation.
- Excellent communication and team leadership skills.
- Passionate about early childhood education and child development.
- Paediatric First Aid and DSL training.
Desirable
- Experience in a deputy or room leader role.
- Knowledge of SEND and inclusion practices.
Nursery Deputy Manager employer: Shepherds Hill Nursery
Contact Detail:
Shepherds Hill Nursery Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Nursery Deputy Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the nursery's ethos and values before your interview. We want to see how you connect with our love for the outdoors and child-centred approach, so be ready to share your own experiences and ideas that align with our mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your leadership skills! As a Deputy Manager, you'll need to inspire and mentor your team. Think of examples from your past where you've successfully led a group or supported colleagues, and be prepared to discuss them.
✨Tip Number 3
Show us your passion for early years education! Whether it's through outdoor learning or innovative teaching methods, we want to hear how you plan to enhance the children's experiences at Shepherds Hill Nursery.
✨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 us you're keen on joining our small but mighty team!
We think you need these skills to ace Nursery Deputy Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Outdoors: When writing your application, let your love for outdoor play and learning shine through. Share any personal experiences or ideas you have about how nature can enhance early years education. We want to see that you truly connect with our ethos!
Highlight Your Leadership Skills: As a Deputy Manager, you'll be leading a team, so make sure to showcase your leadership experience. Talk about times you've mentored others or led projects in your previous roles. We’re looking for someone who can inspire and support our small but mighty team!
Be Specific About Your Qualifications: Don’t just list your qualifications; explain how they relate to the role. Mention your Level 3 qualification and any relevant training, like Paediatric First Aid or DSL training. We want to know how your background makes you the perfect fit for us!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important details. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Shepherds Hill Nursery
✨Know Your EYFS Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. Be ready to discuss how you’ve implemented it in your previous roles and share specific examples of how you’ve supported children’s learning and development.
✨Show Your Passion for Outdoor Learning
Since Shepherds Hill Nursery values outdoor play, come prepared with ideas on how to incorporate nature into learning. Think about activities or projects you've done that connect children with the outdoors and be ready to share them.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Deputy Manager, you'll need to lead and inspire your team. Prepare to talk about your experience in mentoring staff, leading meetings, and how you handle performance reviews. Highlight any successful strategies you've used to motivate your team.
✨Prepare for Safeguarding Questions
Safeguarding is crucial in early years settings. Be ready to discuss your understanding of safeguarding procedures and share examples of how you've ensured children's safety and well-being in your previous roles.
