Deputy Nursery Manager

Deputy Nursery Manager

Location: Chigwell / Ilford
Pay: £25,000 - £30,000
Duration: Full-time | Permanent
Start: ASAP / Flexible
Closing date for applications: 14/06/2026

Our client is a warm, nurturing early years setting based in Ilford area, committed to providing exceptional care and education for children from birth to five years. They pride themselves on creating a safe, stimulating environment where every child can thrive and reach their full potential.

They are now seeking an experienced and passionate Deputy Nursery Manager to support the Nursery Manager in leading our dedicated team and ensuring the highest standards of care and learning across the setting.

ROLE OVERVIEW

As Deputy Nursery Manager, you will play a pivotal role in the day-to-day running of the nursery. Working closely with the Nursery Manager, you will lead by example, inspire the team, and help create an outstanding experience for the children in our care and their families.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Support the Nursery Manager in the effective management and leadership of the nursery
Take responsibility for the nursery in the Manager's absence, ensuring continuity of high-quality care
Lead, mentor, and support a team of practitioners, promoting a positive and professional culture
Ensure full compliance with Ofsted requirements, safeguarding legislation, and Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework
Support with staff recruitment, induction, supervisions, and appraisals
Monitor and maintain high standards of planning, observation, and assessment across all rooms
Build and maintain strong, trusting relationships with parents, carers, and families
Manage and monitor key children's learning journeys, tracking progress and identifying areas for development
Assist with the management of daily operations, including staffing ratios, rotas, and room organisation
Champion safeguarding and child protection practices, acting as a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) if required
Support with the preparation for Ofsted inspections and other regulatory requirements
Contribute to the setting's self-evaluation and continuous improvement planning
Liaise with other professionals such as SENCO, health visitors, and local authority staff as required

PERSON SPECIFICATION – ESSENTIAL

Level 3 qualification (or above) in Early Years, Childcare, or a related field
Significant experience working in an early years or nursery setting, including supervisory or leadership experience
Thorough knowledge of the EYFS framework, Ofsted requirements, and safeguarding legislation
Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to motivate and support a team
Experience in completing observations, assessments, and planning activities in line with EYFS
Paediatric First Aid certificate (or willingness to obtain upon appointment)
Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to apply)
A genuine passion for early childhood education and child development

PERSON SPECIFICATION – DESIRABLE

Level 5 or above qualification in Early Years Leadership or Management
Previous Deputy Manager or Room Leader experience
Experience supporting or preparing for Ofsted inspections
Experience as a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL)
Knowledge of SEND provision within an early years context

About Luma Education Recruitment

Luma Education Recruitment connects talented teachers and support staff with schools across the UK. We specialise in a wide range of roles, from Teaching Assistants to Headteachers, ensuring you find the right position for your skills and experience.

We are an Equal Opportunities Employer.

To discuss the role or apply, send your CV to View email address on findajob.dwp.gov.uk or call View phone number on findajob.dwp.gov.uk. Looking for something different? Reach out and let us help you find the right role.