Deputy Nursery Manager

Great Starts Recruitment are working on behalf of a nursery in Bushey to recruit a dedicated Nursery Deputy Manager. This is a full-time leadership role, supporting the Nursery Manager to ensure every child receives the highest quality of care, is kept safe, and enjoys stimulating learning experiences that meet their individual needs in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum.

You will work closely with the Manager to lead and inspire a motivated team, ensuring the nursery maintains compliance, achieves excellence, and provides a welcoming, safe, and nurturing environment. In the Manager's absence, you will take full responsibility for nursery operations.

• Support the effective day-to-day management of the nursery in line with policies, operational plans, and Ofsted requirements

• Promote exemplary practice in safeguarding, health & safety, and EYFS delivery

• Lead, mentor and develop staff to ensure high standards of care and education

• Oversee recruitment, inductions, training, appraisals, and staff rotas

• Manage occupancy levels and contribute to nursery marketing and parent partnerships

• Maintain accurate records, compliance folders, and ensure readiness for Ofsted inspections

• Build strong partnerships with parents, carers, and external agencies

• Foster a positive, professional, and caring environment for both children and staff

You will bring a strong mix of professional childcare knowledge, leadership ability, and a warm, approachable personality.

Essential requirements:

• Minimum Level 3 childcare qualification (recognised awarding scheme such as CACHE, NVQ, NNEB, BTEC, CWDC Diploma)

• At least two years' experience in a managerial position in a Good or Outstanding nursery

• Strong knowledge of child development, safeguarding, health & safety, and EYFS

• Proven leadership skills, including staff supervision, appraisals, and team development

• Excellent organisational, communication, and decision-making skills

• Ability to build strong relationships with children, parents, and colleagues

• Fluency in written and spoken English

Desirable:

• Level 4/5 qualification in Early Years or Management (or willingness to work towards)

• Graduate or postgraduate training (e.g. Early Years Teacher, Professional or Educator)

• Experience working in multi-site or large nursery settings

• Evidence of successfully achieving Good or Outstanding Ofsted results

The nursery truly values its staff and offers an exceptional benefits package, including:

• Competitive salary with annual pay reviews

• Paid overtime for nursery-wide staff meetings

• Performance recognition and reward schemes

• Excellent in-house training & clear career progression pathways

• Company pension scheme

• Up to 43 days annual leave for long service (inclusive of bank holidays & Christmas closure)

• Discretionary leave and an extra day off for your Birthday

• Free private medical care

• Free on-site parking

• Staff well-being perks, treats, and mental health support

• Recommend-a-friend bonus up to £750

• Celebrations & gifts for special occasions

• Nursery Christmas parties & social events
  
  If this sounds like a role that you would be a great fit for, please do not hesitate to apply as the nursery are looking to hold interviews asap.