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- Tasks: Support the Nursery Manager in daily operations and ensure a safe, stimulating environment for children.
- Company: Join Tops Day Nurseries, a leading childcare provider committed to sustainability and employee well-being.
- Benefits: Enjoy a ÂŁ700 welcome bonus, flexible hours, 28 days holiday, and free meals.
- Why this job: Be part of a certified World's Happiest Workplace with opportunities for career growth and recognition.
- Qualifications: Must have a Level 3 Early Years Qualification and experience in a leadership role.
- Other info: We value diversity and are an equal opportunity employer.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 ÂŁ per year.
Location: Tops Copnor, Portsmouth, Hampshire
Pay rate: Up to ÂŁ29,577.60 per annum
Contracted Hours: 40 hours per week / Full time 7.30am-6pm
“Staff well-being is valued and nurtured. The provider offers staff opportunities to celebrate their achievements and contributions. These include staff nominations on the 'Each Person Scheme' and special award nights to recognise both individual and nursery achievements.” - OFSTED recent feedback
Why You’ll Love Working with Us
- £700 Welcome Bonus: We’re excited to have you join us and want to start things off with a warm welcome!
- Relocation Package: Receive up to ÂŁ3000 to help make your move as smooth as possible.
- Annual Bonus Scheme: As an Employee-Owned Company, you’ll share in our success. Each May, you’ll have the opportunity to receive a bonus from our profit shares.
- Childcare Discount: Enjoy up to 60% off childcare within Tops Day Nurseries, making it easier for you to balance work and family life.
- Flexible Working Options: Make the Most of Your Time Off with Compressed Hours. By working compressed hours, you could gain up to 48 extra days off per year. Alternatively, if you work nine days over a two-week period, you’ll receive up to 24 additional days off annually. And that’s in addition to your standard holiday allowance!
- Proud to be a World’s Happiest Workplace: Tops Day Nurseries has been officially certified as a World’s Happiest Workplace for 2025, recognising our commitment to employee well-being, career growth, and a positive workplace culture.
- Holiday Allowance: You’ll receive 28 days of annual leave each year to relax and spend time doing what you love. Additionally, you’ll receive 2 extra days: one to celebrate your birthday or another day that’s special to you, and a Wellbeing Day, just for you.
- Free meals: Our nurseries provide free breakfast to our colleagues as part of our commitment to supporting your well-being.
- Employee Recognition: Access to the Blue Light Card, offering exclusive discounts and savings at thousands of retailers, restaurants, and attractions.
- Health and Wellbeing Support: We’ve got you covered with NHS Prescription Charges, Optical Care, and Dental Treatment.
- Career Development: We’re committed to your growth and offer fantastic opportunities for career advancement.
- Travel and Parking Season Ticket loan: Borrow up to ÂŁ500 interest-free and spread the expense easily.
About the Role
A Nursery Deputy Manager plays a key role in supporting the Nursery Manager to oversee the daily operations of a nursery or childcare setting. They ensure that the nursery provides a safe, stimulating, and educational environment for children.
About the Nursery
Tops Copnor Nursery is a 35 place Day Nursery & Pre-School situated in Copnor Road, Portsmouth. The nursery runs several extra-curricular activities including Tops Forest School, cooking school, Boogie Mites, yoga, meditation and much more! We’re rated 9.4 by daynurseries.co.uk and graded GOOD by OFSTED.
What does the role involve?
- Responsible for overseeing a unit and assisting specialists in the nursery.
- Ensure that suitable opportunities, activities and resources are provided for all the children relevant to their age/stage and development needs.
- Communicate with parents to ensure that all fees are paid and that parents are satisfied with the provision of care provided.
- Ensure that all staff are supported in their training and development and their job satisfaction.
- Support the Nursery Manager and manage the setting in the Manager's absence.
- To be committed to the safeguarding of all children in the nursery.
What are we looking for?
- A minimum of a Level 3 Early Years Qualification is required.
- Experience in a leadership or supervisory role.
- Strong knowledge of EYFS and Ofsted regulations.
- Proven experience managing teams and working closely with parents.
Why Tops Day Nurseries?
We are a leading early education and childcare provider in South England, established in 1990. We promote environmental sustainability and social responsibility by educating today’s children to influence future generations. We value respect, open communication, and teamwork, fostering a positive, purpose-driven work environment.
As an Employee-Owned Company, our colleagues are co-owners, benefiting from the company’s growth through annual profit-sharing bonuses. We’re also proud to rank 9th in the 2024 Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers in the UK, offering career development from Level 2 Childcare Apprenticeships to Nursery Manager or Early Years Teacher.
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status or disability status. All candidates will be required to have an enhanced DBS which is on the update service. All offers are conditional upon satisfactory background checks. This role involves regulated activity with children.
Nursery Deputy Manager employer: Tops Day Nurseries
Contact Detail:
Tops Day Nurseries Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Nursery Deputy Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the EYFS framework and Ofsted regulations, as these are crucial for the role. Being able to discuss how you have implemented these in your previous positions will show your expertise and readiness for the Nursery Deputy Manager position.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your leadership experience during any networking opportunities or informal chats. Connect with current or former employees of Tops Day Nurseries on platforms like LinkedIn to gain insights into their culture and values, which can help you tailor your approach.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've supported staff development in your past roles. This could include mentoring, training, or creating a positive work environment, as these are key aspects of the Deputy Manager role.
✨Tip Number 4
Show your passion for child development and education by engaging in relevant community activities or workshops. This not only enhances your CV but also demonstrates your commitment to the field, making you a more attractive candidate for the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Nursery Deputy Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in early years education and any leadership roles you've held. Emphasise your knowledge of EYFS and Ofsted regulations, as these are crucial for the Nursery Deputy Manager position.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for early childhood education and your commitment to creating a safe and stimulating environment for children. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to manage teams and communicate effectively with parents.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your Level 3 Early Years Qualification and any additional certifications or training you have completed. This will help establish your credibility and suitability for the role.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Provide examples of how you've successfully managed teams or supported staff development in previous roles. Highlight any initiatives you've led that improved the nursery environment or enhanced children's learning experiences.
How to prepare for a job interview at Tops Day Nurseries
✨Show Your Passion for Early Years Education
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with children and your commitment to their development. Share specific examples of how you've positively impacted children's learning in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Nursery Deputy Manager, you'll need to showcase your leadership abilities. Prepare to discuss your experience in managing teams, mentoring staff, and how you handle challenges within a nursery setting.
✨Familiarise Yourself with EYFS and Ofsted Regulations
Brush up on the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework and Ofsted guidelines. Be ready to discuss how you ensure compliance and maintain high standards in a nursery environment.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Think of insightful questions to ask about the nursery's culture, staff development opportunities, and how they support employee well-being. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
