Deputy Nursery Manager - #2177980

About the Role

Graceful Beginnings Day Nursery is looking for an experienced and motivated Deputy Nursery Manager to support the day-to-day running of our nursery in Little Hulton.

We are particularly interested in candidates who have previous leadership experience within an early years setting and are confident dealing directly with Ofsted inspectors. The successful candidate will work closely with the Nursery Manager to maintain high standards of childcare, safeguarding, education and regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Nursery Manager with the daily running and overall management of the nursery.
• Lead, motivate and support the nursery team, promoting high standards of childcare and teamwork.
• Ensure practice complies with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), safeguarding requirements and relevant regulations.
• Prepare for and support Ofsted inspections, including organising documentation, responding to inspectors' questions and following up on recommendations.
• Build positive relationships with parents and carers, maintaining effective communication about children's progress and wellbeing.
• Support staff supervision, induction, training and professional development.
• Monitor children's learning, development, observations and assessments.
• Maintain accurate records, policies and procedures and ensure the nursery environment remains safe and welcoming.
• Assist with staff deployment, rotas and daily operational planning.
• Support continuous improvement and help maintain the quality of care and education across the setting.

Essential Requirements

• Level 3 qualification or higher in Early Years Education or Childcare.
• Approximately 2–3 years of relevant experience within an early years or nursery setting.
• Previous experience in a Deputy Manager, Room Leader, Senior Practitioner or similar leadership role.
• Practical experience supporting or managing Ofsted inspections and communicating with inspectors.
• Strong knowledge of the EYFS framework, safeguarding and child protection.
• Excellent communication, organisational and leadership skills.
• The ability to support staff, manage responsibilities effectively and maintain high standards of practice.
• The right to work in the UK.

What We Are Looking For

We are seeking a confident, proactive and approachable professional who can lead by example, support the nursery team and contribute to a positive environment for children, parents and colleagues.

Candidates should be able to explain their personal involvement in Ofsted inspections, including how they prepared the setting, supported inspectors and addressed any feedback or required actions.

Experienced Room Leaders and Senior Early Years Practitioners with relevant leadership and Ofsted inspection experience are welcome to apply.

Safeguarding and Recruitment Checks

The successful candidate will be subject to appropriate pre-employment checks, including verification of qualifications and right to work, satisfactory references and the required enhanced DBS checks.