Step into a key leadership role with a well-established nursery in Stratford-upon-Avon, where you’ll help shape a nurturing, high-quality learning environment for young children. This is an opportunity to support a committed Nursery Manager, lead a dedicated team, and ensure every child thrives in a safe, stimulating setting.

About the Role:

As Nursery Deputy Manager, you will support the overall day-to-day running of the nursery, ensuring high standards of care, education, and safeguarding are consistently maintained. You will act as a role model for best practice in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), deputise for the Nursery Manager when required, and drive continuous improvement across the setting. Your leadership will directly influence staff performance, parent satisfaction, and positive outcomes for children.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the Nursery Manager in overseeing daily operations, ensuring smooth running of rooms, routines, and staff deployment.
• Lead, motivate, and coach room leaders and practitioners to deliver high-quality EYFS practice and a positive learning environment.
• Act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead (or support the DSL), ensuring robust safeguarding and child protection procedures are followed at all times.
• Oversee planning, observation, and assessment processes to ensure they are accurate, meaningful, and tailored to individual children’s needs.
• Build strong, professional relationships with parents and carers, providing regular communication, feedback, and support regarding their child’s progress.
• Monitor and manage staff performance, including conducting supervisions, appraisals, and supporting professional development.
• Ensure the nursery remains compliant with regulatory requirements, including Ofsted standards, health and safety, and company policies.
• Contribute to and lead on Ofsted preparedness, including maintaining documentation, action plans, and quality improvement initiatives.

Key Requirements:

• Proven experience in a senior role within an early years setting, such as Room Leader, Senior Practitioner, or Deputy Manager.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire, support, and challenge staff effectively.
• In-depth knowledge of the EYFS curriculum and best practice in early years education and care.
• Demonstrable understanding of safeguarding and child protection procedures, with confidence in implementing policies and responding to concerns.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to build trust and rapport with parents, carers, children, and colleagues.
• Experience in staff supervision, performance management, and supporting professional development.
• Competent in nursery administration, including maintaining records, reports, and regulatory documentation.
• Confident in managing behaviour positively and promoting a respectful, inclusive environment.

Desirable Skills:

• Experience contributing to successful Ofsted inspections and implementing post-inspection action plans.
• Knowledge of additional needs and inclusive practice, including working with external agencies.
• Experience in leading curriculum initiatives or quality improvement projects within an early years setting.
• Familiarity with digital systems for planning, observations, and parent communication.

Qualifications:

• Minimum Level 3 Early Years/Childcare qualification (e.g. NVQ, CACHE, Diploma) or equivalent – essential.
• Higher-level early years qualification (Level 4/5/6) – desirable.
• Designated Safeguarding Lead training or willingness to complete – essential.
• Paediatric First Aid certificate – essential or willingness to obtain.
• Evidence of ongoing professional development in early years leadership and practice – desirable.

If you are a driven early years professional ready to take the next step in leadership, this role offers a genuine opportunity to make a lasting impact on children, families, and staff. Apply now to bring your expertise and passion to a thriving nursery team.