Job Title: Deputy Manager (Montessori)
Location: Edzell Nursery, Edinburgh
Start Date: January 2026
Working Hours:
● Term Time Only
● Monday to Thursday: 8:00 am – 4:30 pm
● Friday: 8:00 am – 1:30 pm
About Us
Edzell Montessori Nursery is a well-established setting in the north of Edinburgh, providing high-quality early years education to children aged 3–6. We work in partnership with the City of Edinburgh Council and have capacity for up to 30 children. The nursery was rated highly by the Care Inspectorate following our most recent inspection in April last year.
Position Overview
We are seeking a qualified and passionate Montessori practitioner to lead our preschool class and assist the nursery manager in the day-to-day running of the nursery. This is a leadership role within a supportive, collaborative team dedicated to child-centred and respectful approach to early years education. The ideal candidate will be enthusiastic about the Montessori approach and committed to nurturing children's growth, independence, and natural curiosity within a carefully prepared environment.
Key Responsibilities
● Support the manager in the safe and effective running of the nursery, acting as manager in their absence.
● Lead a small team of early years practitioners, offering guidance and support.
● Create and maintain an engaging, child-centred Montessori environment, adapting materials to meet individual children's needs and interests.
● Deliver daily individual and small-group presentations to encourage exploration and independent learning.
● Collaborate with colleagues to plan and deliver engaging afternoon group activities (e.g. baking, gardening, arts).
● Implement the Montessori curriculum while aligning with the Curriculum for Excellence.
● Foster self-regulation, confidence, and autonomy in children.
● Promote respectful behaviour and manage children's conduct positively and empathetically.
● Ensure a safe and nurturing learning environment, both indoors and outdoors.
● Observe and track each child's development, maintaining accurate and holistic records.
● Build strong, supportive relationships with key children and their families.
● Communicate regularly with parents, providing updates and responding to concerns. ● Take part in child development discussions, team meetings, and ongoing training.
● Adhere to nursery policies and procedures, including safeguarding, health and safety, and confidentiality.
● Complete administrative tasks such as accident reports and developmental records.
Skills & Qualifications
● Fully qualified Montessori practitioner.
● Previous experience in a similar role.
● Strong understanding of child development, the Montessori philosophy, and Scotland's national early years framework.
● Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
● Ability to lead and motivate a small team.
● Highly organised, with attention to detail.
● Registered (or eligible for registration) with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) or General Teaching Council Scotland (GTCS).
● Member of the PVG Scheme (Protection of Vulnerable Groups).
● Right to work in the UK is essential.
What We Offer
● Competitive salary
● Pension scheme
● Ongoing professional development and training opportunities
● Supportive, collaborative work environment
● Health & wellbeing programme
How to Apply
Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and qualifications to
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £30,000.00 per year
Education:
* Diploma of Higher Education (required)
Experience:
* Montessori teaching: 2 years (preferred)
Work authorisation:
* United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person