Nursery Deputy Manager

We are seeking a dedicated and passionate Deputy Nursery Manager to join our team and assist in leading our nursery in providing outstanding Early Years Education and care. The successful candidate will work closely with the Nursery Manager to ensure the smooth and efficient operation of the nursery, providing a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment for children aged 2-4 years. We are looking for creative and reflective leaders able to implement new ideas and use a range of strategies to continually improve practice and support the Nursery Manager and wider team.

Hours, Salary & Benefits:

• Hours: Permanent, full-time, year-round role. A job share could be considered for the right candidate. Nursery opening hours are 8am-6pm. We can discuss specific hours/shifts at interview. You will work 40 hours per week.
• Salary: £29,000 – £32,000 per annum depending on qualifications and experience.
• Cycle to work scheme and electric vehicle scheme.
• Means tested staff discount.
• Complimentary lunch.
• Access to the group’s counselling scheme.
• Access to fully funded apprenticeships, up to L7.
• Discretionary Christmas stand down.
• Enjoy the support that comes with being part of a wider school – housekeeping, catering, admissions, finance and office functions taken care of for you, leaving you time to focus on your team and the children.

Job Description:

• Support the creation and maintenance of a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone plays as a team and can achieve their full potential.
• Assist in planning and logistics, including the daily routine, set-up of learning experiences, and the development of the physical environment, including planning for equipment and resources.
• Liaise with the Prep School’s SENCO regarding any children with specific needs.
• Ensure effective monitoring and tracking of children’s learning, and assist in effective reporting to parents.
• Play a key role in welcoming families to the nursery, conducting parent tours, assisting with open events, and running ‘stay and play’ sessions.
• Contribute to the Prep School newsletter, suggesting highlights of the week in nursery together with any relevant notices for parents.
• Be a role model for exceptionally high standards, never cutting corners, thriving on feedback, and leading excellence.

Working with the Team:

• Support the nursery staff team, ensuring the happiness, wellbeing, and professional development of all members.
• Respect and value all team members, children, and parents, fostering a positive working environment.
• Promote professional development by providing regular feedback, guidance, and learning opportunities.
• Provide cover in Family Rooms for any staff absences and appointments, delivering high-quality care and modelling good practice for all age groups.
• Assist in personnel and staffing procedures, including conducting interviews for new staff, return to work interviews, one-to-one meetings, and disciplinaries.
• Manage agency staff when necessary, ensuring their documentation is appropriate and up to date upon arrival, and oversee their deployment and induction before entering nursery classrooms.

Compliance & Safety:

• Assist in setting and managing sufficient ratios and rotas; organise cover when required.
• Assist in daily risk assessments, health and safety, EYFS statutory requirements, and the overall quality of education.
• Regularly review and update nursery risk assessments, ensuring the nursery is a minimal risk environment and that all team members are well-versed in specified control measures.
• Continually action, maintain, and critically assess all policies, procedures, and practices.

Person Specification:

• At least 2 years of supervisory experience in a nursery setting.
• Paediatric First Aid certification is desirable, but not essential.
• SEN experience or experience as Early Years SENCO welcomed.
• Safeguarding training and experience.
• Knowledge of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to plan, organise, and prioritise effectively.
• Competence in monitoring and evaluating educational standards.
• Proficiency in maintaining high standards of health, safety, and hygiene.
• Ability to build positive relationships with children, parents, and staff.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to handle challenging situations calmly and effectively.

Personal Attributes:

• Passionate about early childhood education and development.
• Approachable, friendly, and supportive.
• Highly motivated and enthusiastic.
• Committed to continuous professional development.
• Flexible and adaptable to changing circumstances and needs.
• Reliable, with a strong sense of responsibility and professionalism.
• Creative and innovative in approach to childcare and education.

More information can be found in the candidate pack.

How to Apply:

To pursue an application, please complete the school’s application form which can be found on the vacancies page of the school’s website and submit by email to: michelle.andrews@westonbirtschool.uk Applications can also be made on the Westonbirt School TES page. The closing date for applications is noon on Friday 20 June. Interviews will be held as applications are received; we reserve the right to close the vacancy if a suitable applicant is found. If you have any queries or would like further information, please do not hesitate to contact Michelle Andrews, HR Officer, on 01666 881361.