Job Description
Deputy Nursery Manager
Pay Band 6
Pay: Full-time equivalent: £28239 Actual: £25143
Hours: 37 hours a week, term time only, between 7.30am - 3.30pm
Start Date: As soon as possible (subject to satisfactory references and safeguarding checks)
A fantastic opportunity has arisen for an experienced and ambitious practitioner to join our Nursery at Portsdown Primary School and Early Years as Deputy Nursery Manager.
Located in Cosham, Portsmouth, just a stone's throw from QA Hospital, our Nursery is an integral part of the school and provides high-quality early years education and care for children aged 2-5 years.
We are seeking an enthusiastic, highly motivated and nurturing professional with excellent leadership and communication skills to work alongside our Nursery Manager. The successful candidate will help to lead our caring, forward-thinking and supportive team, ensuring that every child is given the very best start to their learning journey.
The successful candidate will:
Hold a minimum of NVQ Level 3 (or equivalent) in Early Years Care and Education.
Have proven experience of working in an early years setting, with the ability to lead, motivate and support a team.
Be passionate about delivering a high-quality, child-led curriculum and ensuring all children's physical, intellectual, emotional and social needs are met.
Demonstrate strong organisational skills and the ability to deputise for the Nursery Manager, including taking day-to-day responsibility for the smooth running of the nursery when required.
Act as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead and liaise confidently with parents and external agencies.
Be caring, patient and committed to helping children develop independence and confidence.
We can offer:
A values-led curriculum and a warm, inclusive ethos.
Happy, enthusiastic children who are eager to learn.
A supportive, dedicated staff team and opportunities for professional development.
A wonderful and rich environment to work in.
Access to Local Authority Pension Scheme
5 Professional Training days per academic year
How to apply
Application form
Job profile
To apply, complete the online application form and email it to
This school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. A DBS Disclosure (Enhanced Level) will be required before any offer of employment.
We look forward to welcoming the newest member of our team - could it be you?
For more information about our wonderful Nursery, please visit our website:
Closing date for applications: Wednesday 26th November 2025
Interviews: To be held the following week (Wednesday 3rd December)