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.
The successful candidates will be able to demonstrate a track record of high-quality teaching and supporting children within the Early Years Foundation Stage, including at least a Level 3 in Early Years Education. We invite applications from experienced candidates to contribute further to standards of excellence, who love children and aspire to work in a happy and fulfilling environment.
Hours, Salary & Benefits:
Hours: Full time, year round role. 40 hours per week.
Salary: £29,000 - £32,000 pa dependent on skills and experience
Benefits:
* 5% employer pension
* Cycle to work scheme and shopping discount card
* Staff discount on nursery fees
* Free lunch during term time
* 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
* Additional days between Christmas and New Year
* Access to the group's counselling scheme
* Access to fully funded apprenticeships, up to L5
* On site parking
* Personal accident at work cover
St Faith’s Prep School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service .
Wishford schools are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds. Appointments will be made solely on merit and will be made without regard to age, disability, gender, nationality, race, colour, ethnicity, or religion.
:
Education & Environment:
* 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 Weekly Round-up, 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.
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.
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 all Early Years 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.
Person Specification:
* Level 3+ qualification in childcare or QTS/EYPS qualified.
* 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.
Other Requirements:
* Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
* Willingness to work flexible hours when necessary.
Please see candidate pack for full details.