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- Tasks: Support the Nursery Manager in daily operations and guide staff for a nurturing environment.
- Company: A beautiful Victorian nursery with a calm, home-like atmosphere.
- Benefits: Enjoy free lunch, pension, training, bonuses, and team events.
- Why this job: Join a stable nursery and make a real impact on children's early development.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Early Years qualification and leadership experience in a nursery setting.
- Other info: Work 40 hours a week across 4 days in a supportive team.
The predicted salary is between 13 - 16 £ per hour.
The nursery is set in a beautiful Victorian house, with spacious, age-specific rooms for toddlers and preschool children and a dedicated outdoor play area. Day-to-day practice is nurturing, with routines that support learning, independence, and school readiness. This role works closely with the Nursery Manager, sharing responsibility for standards, staff support, and the smooth day-to-day running of the setting.
Before You Apply
- This role requires prior experience as a Deputy Manager, Third in Charge or similar.
- A full and relevant Level 3 (or above) Early Years qualification is essential.
- This position is not suitable for candidates without leadership experience in a nursery setting.
Key Job Details
- Rate of Pay: £16 per hour
- Hours: 40 hours per week, worked across 4 days
- Setting: Private day nursery
- Age Group: Toddlers and Pre-School
Why This Role Is Worth Considering
- A clearly defined deputy role with shared responsibility, not sole charge.
- A stable nursery with established routines and consistent staffing.
- An environment designed to feel calm and home-like.
- Benefits including free lunch, pension, training, bonus scheme, length of service rewards, and team events.
What You’ll Need
- Full and relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification.
- Proven experience in a leadership role within a nursery setting.
- Confidence supporting staff practice and contributing to operational decisions.
- Strong working knowledge of EYFS and safeguarding requirements.
Desirable
- Additional safeguarding or leadership training.
What You’ll Do
- Support the Nursery Manager with the day-to-day running of the nursery.
- Provide guidance and oversight to room leaders and practitioners.
- Maintain safeguarding, welfare, and quality standards across the setting.
- Contribute to staffing organisation, ratios, and daily operational decisions.
- Act as deputy lead in the Manager’s absence.
What Happens After You Apply
Applications are reviewed promptly. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly.
Deputy Nursery Manager in Croydon employer: Willing Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Willing Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Nursery Manager in Croydon
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the early years sector and let them know you're on the lookout for a Deputy Nursery 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 those interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of EYFS and safeguarding requirements. We recommend having specific examples ready that showcase your leadership experience and how you've supported staff in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to highlight your qualifications! Make sure you can confidently discuss your Level 3 Early Years qualification and any additional training you've done. This will show potential employers that you're serious about your professional development.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that job! We review applications promptly, so get your details in there and keep an eye on your inbox for a quick response.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Nursery Manager in Croydon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your previous experience as a Deputy Manager or in a similar role. We want to see how you've led teams and supported staff in a nursery setting, so don’t hold back!
Tailor Your Application: Take a moment to customise your application for this specific role. Mention your Level 3 Early Years qualification and any relevant training you’ve done. We love seeing candidates who pay attention to detail!
Be Yourself: Let your personality shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who fits well with our nurturing environment, so don’t be afraid to show us what makes you unique!
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and get back to you quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Willing Recruitment
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and safeguarding requirements. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're not just familiar with the role, but that you truly understand the standards expected in a nursery setting.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples from your previous experience where you've successfully led a team or supported staff practice. Think about specific situations where you made a positive impact, as this will demonstrate your capability to take on the deputy role effectively.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Nursery
If possible, visit the nursery beforehand or research its values and routines. This will help you tailor your answers to align with their approach and show that you're genuinely interested in becoming part of their team.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask during the interview. This could be about their approach to staff development or how they maintain a nurturing environment. It shows that you're engaged and thinking critically about how you can contribute to their setting.
