Background Information
We are looking for an enthusiastic and experienced Deputy Manager to join our dedicated team at Willow Green Day Nursery. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who is passionate about early years education, committed to high standards of childcare, and eager to support the Nursery Manager in leading a thriving nursery.
We are looking for someone who has:
* A Level 3 or above in Early Years Childcare (essential).
* Experience in a supervisory or Deputy Manager role within a nursery setting.
* Excellent knowledge of the EYFS framework and safeguarding requirements.
* Strong leadership, organisational, and communication skills.
* A genuine passion for supporting children's learning and development.
Why Join Us as Deputy Nursery Manager?
At Willow Green Day Nursery, part of the Kids Zone Nursery Group (the largest nursery group in Tameside with 8 successful settings across Greater Manchester), you'll gain much more than just a job in childcare — you'll develop the skills, knowledge, and experience to grow within the childcare sector and beyond.
What makes this opportunity special?
* Supportive, long-standing team with a strong sense of community.
* Ofsted rated "Good" nursery.
* Excellent transport links nearby (tram & bus routes).
* Convenient central location.
* Work closely with the Area Manager, Nursery Manager, and SENDCo, gaining hands-on experience in all aspects of nursery management
* Learn directly from a knowledgeable Senior Management Team with a proven track record in early years success.
The Role
As Deputy Manager, you'll play a key role in ensuring the nursery continues to thrive. You will:
* Work alongside the Manager, staff, and children to gain a full understanding of how our nursery operates.
* Support with parent partnerships, including show-rounds, enrollments, and discussing children's progress.
* Lead and manage staff teams day-to-day, ensuring high standards of care are maintained.
* Contribute to social media and parent communication platforms using staff photos and updates to showcase our nursery.
* Take part in staff meetings, supervisions, and reviews, supporting staff well-being and professional growth.
* Bring creativity to nursery events (e.g. Children in Need, World Book Day, PJ Days, and local fundraising initiatives).
* Support — or learn how to support — staff in additional roles (e.g. SENDCo / DSL) with paperwork and meetings.
* Collect and act on parent feedback, recognising achievements and suggesting improvements.
What We're Looking For
* A strong understanding of childcare, the EYFS framework, and Ofsted requirements.
* Excellent communication skills — able to motivate staff, support parents, and engage with children.
* Confidence in written communication for social media posts and parent messages.
* Organisational and time management skills with the ability to think ahead and plan effectively.
* A positive, motivated, and resourceful attitude — eager to keep learning and developing.
* A desire to gain more than childcare experience: you'll also learn how a successful nursery business is run, preparing you for future leadership opportunities.
Required Skills
We're looking for someone who has:
* A solid understanding of childcare, the statutory framework, and Ofsted expectations.
* Strong communication skills, with the ability to give praise, share advice, and contribute ideas.
* Good written skills for responding to parents via nursery software and creating engaging social media posts.
* Excellent organisational and time management abilities — able to plan ahead and stay on top of priorities.
* A positive attitude and a genuine willingness to learn, with motivation to develop your career further.
* An interest in not only childcare, but also how a successful nursery business operates — ideal for someone ambitious, resourceful, and eager to grow.
Why Join the Kids Zone Nursery Family?
At Kids Zone Nursery Group, we believe in growing our own talent — in fact, the majority of our Managers began their careers with us as apprentices. By joining our team, you'll benefit from:
* Competitive salary
* Monday–Friday working
* Clear career progression opportunities
* Access to our comprehensive training facility
* Training bonus and attendance bonus
* Subsidised childcare for your little ones
* Refer-a-friend bonus
* Regular staff rewards and recognition
* Free branded staff uniform
* Closed over Christmas & New Year
Interested please call / and speak with Julie or Sarah
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £12.31-£13.00 per hour
Expected hours: No more than 42.5 per week
Benefits:
* Childcare
* Company pension
* Employee discount
* On-site parking
Education:
* Certificate of Higher Education (preferred)
Experience:
* Management: 1 year (preferred)
* Nursery: 1 year (required)
* Nursery Management: 1 year (required)
* Childcare: 3 years (preferred)
Licence/Certification:
* Driving Licence (preferred)
Work Location: In person
Reference ID: KZNDeputyWGJun24