Bows and Arrows Group Address: Oak Wood Nursery, 251a Clapgate Lane, Ipswich, Suffolk IP3 0RH Salary: £15.86 per hour Hours: Full-time, 38 hours per week, 7.45am - 6.15pm Contract: Permanent Reference: 0784 Inspire. Lead. Grow and be a leader in little lives. Bows and Arrows Group is looking for a passionate and experienced Early Years Deputy Manager to help shape the future of our setting at Oak Wood Nursery and Forest School. This is your opportunity to take on a rewarding leadership role, where childhood wonder meets educational excellence, in a nursery that truly puts children and staff at the heart of everything we do. About Us Oak Wood Nursery and Forest School is part of the Bows and Arrows Group, a not-for-profit organisation with seven nurseries across Ipswich and one clear mission: To ensure every child flourishes. As a not-for-profit, every penny goes back into our settings; funding great people, inspiring spaces, and exceptional care. We believe in outdoor play every day; from beautiful outdoor spaces and forest school sessions, we give children the freedom to explore, imagine, and thrive in nature. Aim High with The Bows and Arrows Group, where little lives grow and big hearts lead. What You’ll Do As Deputy Manager, you’ll work closely with the Nursery Manager to lead a talented team of Senior Early Years Educators, Early Years Educators and Apprentices. Your responsibilities Leading, inspiring, and supporting your team to deliver outstanding early years practice with a large portion of your role ensuring, modelling and delivering quality in all the rooms. Supporting the planning, delivery, and monitoring of the curriculum, Monitoring and evaluating the impact of your support. Creating and maintaining a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment. Acting as the person in charge and DSL (Designated Safeguarding Lead) in the manager’s absence. Opening and / or closing the nursery between the hours of 7.45am - 6.15pm. Keeping accurate records of room developments / progress and support. Ensuring compliance with legislation and company policies. Managing day-to-day operations; including absences, rotas, holidays, training, and performance reviews. Championing inclusive education and meaningful partnerships with families What You’ll Bring to the role A Level 3 qualification (or higher) in Early Years / Childcare. A strong understanding of: The EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage) Child development theory The HighScope approach to behaviour Safeguarding and Child Protection SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) Health and Safety and risk assessments in early years settings Excellent leadership, communication, and team collaboration skills A passion for learning, adventure, and making a real difference What We Offer At Oak Wood, we value and invest in our team. As part of our team, you’ll enjoy: Childcare discounts. Casual dress and a warm, welcoming environment. Regular team and company events. Health and wellbeing support. Pension scheme. Free on-site parking. Opportunities for continued professional development. Most importantly, the opportunity to do meaningful work that truly changes lives. Ready to Join Us? If you're ready to inspire, lead, and grow alongside a passionate and dedicated team, then we’d love to hear from you, so apply now. To find out more For further information or an informal discussion, please call Shannon Page on 01473 599038. How to apply To apply, please email a Cover Letter and your CV (Curriculum Vitae) to shannon.page@bowsandarrowsgroup.co.uk Closing date: 6.00 pm, 26 June 2026. Interview date: Rolling interviews, so early application is advised. All roles require an Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check and a strong commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.