Deputy Nursery Manager / Early Years Lead

Loddon Nursery School | Loddon, South Norfolk
£37,000 - £39,000 per annum for a four day week, depending on experience
39 hours per week | 7.45am - 6pm across four days

Michelle Denny Recruitment is working with Loddon Nursery School, rated Outstanding by Ofsted, to find a Deputy Manager / Early Years Lead to work alongside the owner-manager.

You’ll combine leading early years practice with helping run the setting, supporting senior practitioners across three rooms and taking responsibility in the manager’s absence.

Why this role matters

The nursery follows The Curiosity Approach ethos, encouraging children to explore, discover and learn through play. You’ll help shape that experience, supporting colleagues to reflect on their practice and respond to each child’s needs.

All of the senior team have developed their careers within the nursery. You will build on their experience and support them within their roles and responsibilities.

A planned handover will help you get to know the setting and the staff team, while giving you space to contribute your own ideas and build a close working relationship with the owner-manager.

What you’ll be doing

This is a hands on leadership position, and your responsibilities will include:

• Leading practice across three rooms and reviewing children’s learning, development and individual needs.

• Supporting staff through supervision and guidance, including students and apprentices.

• Taking charge in the manager’s absence, coordinating staff cover and managing day to day priorities.

• Fulfilling Designated Safeguarding Lead responsibilities alongside the other DSLs.

• Building relationships with families and welcoming prospective parents.

• Supporting admissions, staff annual leave, documentation and preparation for inspections.

You’ll also work directly with children, cover in ratio when required and help with everyday care and nursery routines.

What you’ll bring

You’ll need a full and relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification or above and, ideally, at least two years’ experience in a nursery Deputy role.

You’ll bring a confident understanding of the EYFS, safeguarding and inclusive practice, together with experience of supervising and developing colleagues.

We’re looking for someone who notices what needs doing, follows things through and can prioritise and delegate clearly. You’ll communicate thoughtfully with staff and families, respond calmly when plans change and know when to act independently or ask for support.

An interest in The Curiosity Approach and a willingness to understand the nursery’s ethos are important too.

What’s on offer

• £37,000 - £39,000 per annum for a four day week, depending on experience.

• Three days may be considered for the right candidate, with salary pro rata.

• An additional day off for your birthday.

• A planned handover and the opportunity to work directly with the owner-manager.

This is an all year role. The nursery is open for 50 weeks a year, closing for two weeks over Christmas.

Working hours are 7.45am - 6pm, four days per week, totalling 39 paid hours. There is a 30 minute unpaid lunch break each day.

Let’s talk

To apply, simply click the button. If you would prefer a confidential conversation first, contact Michelle Denny on 01379 779 829 to find out more about the nursery and the role.

MDR is managing this recruitment exclusively on behalf of Loddon Nursery School. Appointment will be subject to satisfactory references, qualification verification and the required safeguarding checks, including an enhanced DBS check.