Nursery Deputy Manager
Bushey
Full time, Permanent
£31,000pa
About the Role
Great Starts Recruitment are working on behalf of a nursery in Bushey to recruit a dedicated Nursery Deputy Manager. This is a full-time leadership role, supporting the Nursery Manager to ensure every child receives the highest quality of care, is kept safe, and enjoys stimulating learning experiences that meet their individual needs in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum.
You will work closely with the Manager to lead and inspire a motivated team, ensuring the nursery maintains compliance, achieves excellence, and provides a welcoming, safe, and nurturing environment. In the Manager's absence, you will take full responsibility for nursery operations.
Key Responsibilities
Support the effective day-to-day management of the nursery in line with policies, operational plans, and Ofsted requirements
Promote exemplary practice in safeguarding, health & safety, and EYFS delivery
Lead, mentor and develop staff to ensure high standards of care and education
Oversee recruitment, inductions, training, appraisals, and staff rotas
Manage occupancy levels and contribute to nursery marketing and parent partnerships
Maintain accurate records, compliance folders, and ensure readiness for Ofsted inspections
Build strong partnerships with parents, carers, and external agencies
Foster a positive, professional, and caring environment for both children and staff
About You – The Ideal Candidate
You will bring a strong mix of professional childcare knowledge, leadership ability, and a warm, approachable personality.
Essential requirements:
Minimum Level 3 childcare qualification (recognised awarding scheme such as CACHE, NVQ, NNEB, BTEC, CWDC Diploma)
At least two years' experience in a managerial position in a Good or Outstanding nursery
Strong knowledge of child development, safeguarding, health & safety, and EYFS
Proven leadership skills, including staff supervision, appraisals, and team development
Excellent organisational, communication, and decision-making skills
Ability to build strong relationships with children, parents, and colleagues
Fluency in written and spoken English
Desirable:
Level 4/5 qualification in Early Years or Management (or willingness to work towards)
Graduate or postgraduate training (e.g. Early Years Teacher, Professional or Educator)
Experience working in multi-site or large nursery settings
Evidence of successfully achieving Good or Outstanding Ofsted results
What's on Offer
The nursery truly values its staff and offers an exceptional benefits package, including:
Competitive salary with annual pay reviews
Paid overtime for nursery-wide staff meetings
Performance recognition and reward schemes
Excellent in-house training & clear career progression pathways
Company pension scheme
Up to 43 days annual leave for long service (inclusive of bank holidays & Christmas closure)
Discretionary leave and an extra day off for your Birthday
Free private medical care
Free on-site parking
Staff well-being perks, treats, and mental health support
Recommend-a-friend bonus up to £750
Celebrations & gifts for special occasions
Nursery Christmas parties & social events
If this sounds like a role that you would be a great fit for, please do not hesitate to apply as the nursery are looking to hold interviews asap