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- Tasks: Support the Early Years Settings Manager and lead a team of Early Years Practitioners.
- Company: Join the Ofsted registered Salvation Army Preschool in Ashford, Surrey.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, a pension scheme, and an employee assistance programme.
- Why this job: Make a difference in children's lives while working in a supportive community environment.
- Qualifications: Level 3 in Early Years and experience in safeguarding and child development.
- Other info: Term time only role with opportunities for further training and career growth.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
We are recruiting for an Early Years Deputy Manager who will be room based to work at our Ofsted registered Salvation Army Preschool, Woodthorpe Road, Ashford, Surrey TW15 3JY. This key position will support and deputise for the Early Years Settings Manager and will manage agreed Early Years Practitioners.
Key Responsibilities:
- Support and deputise for the Early Years Settings Manager.
- Manage agreed Early Years Practitioners.
- Report to the Early Years Settings Manager in the day to day leadership, development, planning and organisation of the preschool.
- Work in partnership with multi agencies, local authorities, volunteers, staff and Divisional Headquarters.
- Build on the Ofsted rating in providing a high standard of service to our community.
The successful candidate(s) will have:
- Educated to Level 3 in Early Years.
- Willingness to undertake further and relevant training.
- Senior/Key person experience of working in Early Years and understanding of child development and behaviour.
- Experience in acting as lead or deputy lead in safeguarding and SENCO.
- A comprehensive knowledge of policies and procedures such as safeguarding, welfare requirements and health and safety in Early Years.
- GCSEs including English and Maths for good verbal and written communication.
- Understanding and ability to work within the Christian ethos of The Salvation Army.
Candidates must also be committed to the values, aims and ethos of The Salvation Army.
Closing Date: Tuesday, 31 Mar 2026
Interview Date: To be confirmed
In order to complete your application please download and read the job profile and any other attachments. In the job profile you will find the criteria required for the role please make sure that you address this in your supporting statement as this forms the basis of our shortlisting.
Appointment subject to satisfactory references, proof of right to work in the UK, Enhanced with barred list DBS check for the Child workforce. For details of how to prove your right to work in the UK please click here and please note that we are unable to offer sponsorship.
Please note that any Salvation Army employees who are under notice of redundancy and apply for this position will be given priority consideration. We reserve the right to close this advert earlier if we feel that we have received sufficient applications.
Promoting equality in the workplace and as a disability confident leader scheme employer, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet all the minimum essential criteria for the vacancy.
Benefits: 25 days annual leave + bank holidays (pro rata for part-time), a contributory pension scheme, an employee assistance programme.
Locations
Early Years Deputy Manager in Ashford, Surrey employer: The Salvation Army
Contact Detail:
The Salvation Army Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Deputy Manager in Ashford, Surrey
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research The Salvation Army's values and ethos. When you understand what they stand for, you can tailor your conversations during interviews to show how you align with their mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips about the interview process and what it’s really like to work there, which can give you an edge.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for situational questions! Think of examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your leadership skills and understanding of child development. This will help you shine during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at the Salvation Army Preschool.
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Deputy Manager in Ashford, Surrey
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Profile Thoroughly: Before you start writing, make sure to download and read the job profile carefully. It’s packed with all the criteria we’re looking for, so addressing these in your application is key to getting noticed!
Tailor Your Supporting Statement: When crafting your supporting statement, be specific! Use examples from your experience that directly relate to the responsibilities and qualifications mentioned in the job description. This shows us you really understand what the role entails.
Show Your Passion for Early Years Education: We love candidates who are genuinely passionate about early years education. Make sure to convey your enthusiasm for working with children and how you align with the values and ethos of The Salvation Army in your application.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Salvation Army
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the key responsibilities of the Early Years Deputy Manager role. Brush up on your knowledge of child development, safeguarding policies, and the Christian ethos of The Salvation Army. This will show that you’re not just interested in the job, but that you truly understand what it entails.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you’ve demonstrated leadership, managed teams, or worked with multi-agency partnerships. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, making it easy for the interviewers to see how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare some insightful questions about the preschool’s current initiatives, challenges they face, or how they measure success. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if this is the right fit for you.
✨Embrace the Values
Familiarise yourself with the values and aims of The Salvation Army. Be ready to discuss how your personal values align with theirs, especially in terms of community service and support. This connection can really set you apart from other candidates.
