Early Years Deputy Manager
Location: The Forest Tree Nursery, Oldham, Greater Manchester
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Entry-level / new to role: £22,000 – £24,000 per year
Experienced
Deputy Manager: £25,000 – £28,000 per year
Highly experienced / Level 5+ qualified / SENCo duties or DSL: £28,000 – £32,000+ per year
Hourly rates (if part-time or term-time only):
£11.50
– £14.50 per hour depending on experience and responsibilities.
Factors that increase salary:
Holding
a Level 5 or higher qualification in Early Years or Management
Being
the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
Leading
a large team or multiple rooms
Taking
on SEND responsibilities
52-week
contracts (rather than term-time only)
Job Description
As Deputy Manager at The Forest Tree Nursery, you will support the Nursery Manager in delivering high-quality care and education to children aged 0-5. You will play a key role in overseeing daily operations, leading a team of practitioners, and maintaining a safe and nurturing environment that aligns with the EYFS framework.
Main Duties & Responsibilities
· Support the Nursery Manager in day-to-day management and leadership of the nursery
· Ensure a safe and stimulating environment for children, adhering to safeguarding protocols
· Lead and supervise staff, including mentoring, appraisals, and training
· Monitor and evaluate planning, observations, and assessments to ensure outstanding practice
· Develop strong partnerships with parents and carers
· Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) or Deputy DSL
· Maintain and exceed Ofsted standards and requirements
· Manage room rotas, staff deployment, and ensure ratios are maintained at all times
· Support administrative duties as required, including recruitment and record-keeping
Person Specification
Essential:
· Level 3 Early Years qualification (minimum)
· At least 2 years' experience in an early years supervisory role
· Strong knowledge of EYFS, safeguarding, and SEND frameworks
· Excellent leadership and communication skills
· Reliable, organised, and flexible
· Enhanced DBS check (or willingness to obtain)
Desirable:
· Level 5 qualification or working towards
· Experience in a PVI setting
· Paediatric First Aid and Food Hygiene certification
· Familiarity with Tapestry or other online learning journals
· Experience liaising with external agencies (e.g. health visitors, SENCO)
· Working knowledge of Ofsted inspection criteria
What We Offer
· A supportive and inclusive working environment
· Ongoing CPD and professional development opportunities
· Pension scheme and staff benefits
· Opportunities for career progression within the nursery
· A nurturing team culture that values individual contributions
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £24,420.00-£32,123.45 per year
Benefits:
* Company pension
* Employee discount
* Employee mentoring programme
* On-site parking
Education:
* Diploma of Higher Education (required)
Experience:
* Deputy/Leadership: 2 years (required)
Language:
* English (required)
Licence/Certification:
* Level 3 in Early Years (required)
Work authorisation:
* United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person