At a Glance
- Tasks: Support high-quality childcare across two settings and lead staff to create engaging learning experiences.
- Company: YMCA Trinity Group, dedicated to positive work culture and community impact.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, reduced childcare costs, 5 weeks holiday, and birthday leave.
- Other info: Opportunities for career development and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Step into leadership and make a real difference in children's lives.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Early Years qualification and experience in childcare with leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 31570 - 31570 € per year.
YMCA Trinity Group is looking for a motivated and committed Deputy Childcare Manager to support the delivery of high‑quality childcare across two Lowestoft settings – YMCA Childcare St. Margaret’s Road and YMCA Childcare Water Lane. This is an exciting opportunity for a confident early‑years professional ready to take the next step in leadership. You will work closely with the Childcare Managers to ensure outstanding provision, while taking a key role in overseeing SEND provision, health and safety, and maintaining consistent standards across both sites.
As a senior member of the team, you will have a significant impact on the quality of provision. You will support, guide, and develop staff to create engaging, inclusive learning experiences and ensure that all children, including those with additional needs, are supported to thrive and reach their full potential.
This role is ideal for someone who is ready to step up into a broader leadership position or already operating at deputy level and looking to expand their impact across multiple sites.
Your responsibilities:
- Support the day‑to‑day management of two childcare settings
- Deputise for the Childcare Managers in their absence
- Lead and support staff to deliver high‑quality, inclusive childcare
- Oversee and support SENCO provision, ensuring excellent outcomes for children with additional needs
- Take a proactive role in health and safety compliance, ensuring safe environments across both settings
- Monitor and maintain high standards in line with EYFS and OFSTED requirements
- Support staff development, training, and performance
- Build strong partnerships with parents, carers, and external professionals
You will need:
- Hold a Level 3 (or above) Early Years/Childcare qualification
- Have experience in a childcare or early years setting, with some leadership responsibility
- Have a strong understanding of EYFS, safeguarding, SEND, and Ofsted requirements
- Be confident supporting staff and promoting best practice
- Have a proactive, organised, and positive approach
- Be passionate about delivering inclusive, high‑quality childcare
About us
At YMCA Trinity Group, we are committed to fostering a positive and rewarding work environment. We understand that the well‑being and satisfaction of our staff and volunteers directly impact the quality of care and support we provide to our clients. We also value the vital contributions each individual makes, in helping us achieve our mission.
We will offer you:
- Reduced childcare costs for employees’ own children
- 5 weeks holiday and public holiday allowance (pro‑rata)
- A paid day off allocated for your birthday (dependent on staff rota)
- Development and internal progression opportunities
- DBS check facilitated / cost paid as part of onboarding
- An induction programme and additional career development opportunities
- Competitive rates of pay and company pension, plus access for YMCA Trinity staff and their immediate families to our Employee Assistance Programme
To find out more
To find out more, please call Amanda Spence, Childcare Programme Manager on 07912 516827 or email Amanda.Spence@ymcatrinity.org.uk or recruitment@ymcatrinity.org.uk.
How to apply
To apply, please visit our website and complete the full application form. As part of our safer recruitment process, applicants are required to complete the application form in full, including details of referees and any gaps in employment. Closing date: 1 pm, 18 June 2026. Applications are assessed on a regular basis; therefore early application is advised. We reserve the right to withdraw this vacancy when roles are filled.
Deputy Childcare Manager in Suffolk employer: Suffolk County Council
YMCA Trinity Group is an exceptional employer dedicated to creating a supportive and rewarding work environment for its staff. With a strong focus on employee well-being, we offer competitive salaries, generous holiday allowances, and opportunities for professional development, ensuring that our team members can thrive both personally and professionally. Located in Lowestoft, our commitment to high-quality childcare and inclusive practices makes this an ideal place for passionate early-years professionals to make a meaningful impact in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Childcare Manager in Suffolk
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the childcare sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a Deputy Childcare Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of EYFS, SEND, and Ofsted requirements. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've supported staff and improved childcare quality in your previous roles. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for inclusive childcare during interviews. Talk about your experiences working with children with additional needs and how you've created engaging learning environments. This will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! Completing the full application form is crucial, so make sure you include all the necessary details. Early applications are encouraged, so get your application in as soon as possible!
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Childcare Manager in Suffolk
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your passion for childcare shine through! We want to see how much you care about creating inclusive and engaging environments for children. Share specific examples of your experiences that highlight your commitment.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to tailor your application to the Deputy Childcare Manager role. Highlight your leadership experience and understanding of EYFS, SEND, and Ofsted requirements. We love seeing how your skills match what we're looking for!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the important stuff without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, make sure to fill out the entire application form, including those pesky gaps in employment – we need all the details to get to know you better!
How to prepare for a job interview at Suffolk County Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and Ofsted requirements. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're serious about delivering high-quality childcare.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've led a team or supported staff in previous roles. Highlight any experience you have with SEND provision and how you've helped create inclusive environments for children.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Don't just answer questions; engage with the interviewers. Ask them about their approach to childcare and how they support staff development. This shows you're genuinely interested in the role and the organisation.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Think about situations you've faced in the past and how you handled them, especially regarding health and safety compliance.
