Deputy Manager – Children of Lys (Helston)
Hours: 4 days per week, 8:30am – 3:30pm
Pay: £15 per hour
Children of Lys is a warm, child-centred preschool in Helston, part of the Children of Towan family. We follow the EYFS 2024 framework with a unique Archetype Approach that values creativity, curiosity, and connection.
We are seeking an experienced Deputy Manager to support the running of our setting, working closely with the Manager/Owner to ensure smooth daily operations, excellent teaching practice, and a safe, inspiring environment for children aged 2–5 years.
Key Responsibilities
Activity Setup & Pack-Away
* Ensure activities are prepared each morning in line with EYFS goals and children's developmental needs.
* Safely store and organise resources after use, keeping the environment tidy and purposeful.
Engaging with Children
* Lead high-quality interactions, modelling strategies that support play, learning, and social development.
* Apply positive behaviour management techniques, fostering kindness, respect, and curiosity.
Curriculum Contribution
* Work with the Manager to plan and deliver engaging curriculum activities.
* Share creative ideas for themes, projects, and child-led learning.
Observing & Assessing Progress
* Carry out daily observations of children's development, recording progress on Tapestry.
* Ensure observations are aligned with EYFS outcomes and support next steps in learning.
Policies & Procedures
* Ensure safeguarding procedures are followed at all times, escalating concerns appropriately.
* Oversee daily risk assessments, health and safety checks, and accident/incident reporting.
* Maintain confidentiality and model professional standards across the team.
Ratios & Compliance
* Monitor staff deployment to ensure ratios are always met (1:5 for 2–3s, 1:8 for 3+, or 1:13 where a Level 6 applies).
* Ensure Ofsted requirements and statutory duties are consistently upheld.
Inspection Readiness
* Support accurate completion and filing of documentation (accident logs, medication records, etc.).
* Demonstrate high-quality practice and evidence of children's progress during inspections.
Team Collaboration & Leadership
* Provide guidance, support, and clear communication to colleagues.
* Act as the setting lead in the Manager's absence, making decisions confidently and appropriately.
* Help induct and mentor new staff.
Deputy Manager Additional Duties
* Act as a key contact for parents, supporting effective home–setting communication.
* Ensure smooth daily running when the Manager is between settings.
* Take responsibility for staff rotas, covering absence, and ensuring the team works collaboratively.
* Support with training compliance, making sure staff certificates and CPD are up to date.
* Contribute to the ethos and development of the Archetype Approach within the setting.
Person Specification
* Level 3 (or above) qualification in Early Years Childcare.
* Strong knowledge of the EYFS, safeguarding, and Ofsted expectations.
* Experience in a supervisory or deputy role.
* Confident communicator with staff and parents.
* Organised, proactive, and able to work independently.
* A genuine love for working with children and commitment to child-centred practice.
To apply, please send your CV and a covering note to:
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £15.00 per hour
Benefits:
* Childcare
* Company events
* Employee discount
* Free parking
Education:
* A-Level or equivalent (required)
Experience:
* Leadership: 4 years (preferred)
Licence/Certification:
* Driving Licence (preferred)
Work Location: In person