Nursery Deputy Manager

Company Overview: The Opportunity Hub UK is currently recruiting for a Deputy Manager position on behalf of a prestigious childcare provider in London. With a strong commitment to providing high-quality care and fostering a stimulating learning environment, our client strives to ensure that every child reaches their full potential under their care.

Job Overview: As Deputy Manager, you will play a pivotal role in providing exceptional care and learning experiences for children while ensuring a safe and supportive environment. You will work closely with the Nursery Manager to support the team and uphold outstanding practices in accordance with statutory frameworks.

Here's what you'll be doing:

• Assuming managerial responsibilities in the absence of the Nursery Manager, ensuring the smooth operation of the setting.
• Ensuring compliance with all policies, procedures, and practices to maintain high standards of care and safety.
• Understanding and implementing safeguarding and child protection policies and procedures effectively.
• Demonstrating sound knowledge of security procedures related to child drop-off and collection.
• Ensuring adherence to Data Protection Policy at all times.

Description of Duties:

• Leading, guiding, and supporting the implementation of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum across all age ranges.
• Planning learning objectives for children in line with the EYFS, fostering a stimulating learning environment indoors and outdoors.
• Developing strategies to improve staff practices and supporting them with training needs.
• Monitoring planning systems and staff knowledge, ensuring all mandatory paperwork is completed accurately.
• Facilitating working partnerships with parents/carers and promoting the setting to new and existing families.
• Supporting staff and children during inspections, implementing required changes as needed.
• Handling complaints and concerns in a professional manner and supporting the transition process effectively.

Human Resources:

• Providing constructive feedback and delivering staff training to promote professional development.
• Maintaining clear and accurate records, including staff records and financial data management.
• Supporting recruitment processes and ensuring a balanced staff team through safe recruitment policies.
• Ensuring clear communication regarding managerial decisions to all staff members.
• Conducting staff personal development reviews and supervision when required.

Daily Jobs/Paperwork to Oversee:

• Ensuring adequate staffing levels and adherence to adult-to-child ratios at the start of each day.
• Overseeing and auditing all required administration and operational plans for effective and safe nursery operation.

Here are the skills you'll need:

• Preferably a Degree in childcare or minimum NVQ Level 3, or equivalent qualification.
• At least 5 years of post-qualifying experience, including 2 years managing and supervising staff in an early years setting.
• Strong knowledge and understanding of the EYFS curriculum, child protection procedures, and health and safety legislation.
• Excellent staff management skills with the ability to lead, inspire, guide, and motivate others.
• Proficiency in IT and computer software for financial purposes, record-keeping, and childcare management.
• Demonstrable commitment to personal and professional development to enhance performance in the role.

Additional Information:

• All our nurseries are open from 7:30 AM to 6:30 PM daily, year-round, except for bank holidays and a week between Christmas and New Year.
• Staff uniform is provided, and all positions are subject to DBS checks and referencing.
• Health and Social Care qualifications are not considered full childcare qualifications for nursery staff ratios.
• Level 2 practitioners will have the opportunity to train up to Level 3.
• Additional benefits include discounted childcare, full induction with ongoing training and support, health and well-being support, gym membership, free uniform, bike to work scheme, additional day off for birthday, staff inset days, and paid Christmas event.

Advantages of Pursuing a Career in this Sector: Joining the childcare sector offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on children's lives while contributing to their holistic development. It provides a fulfilling career path where dedication, innovation, and enthusiasm are valued traits. Additionally, the sector offers opportunities for continuous learning and professional growth, fostering personal and career development in a supportive environment.

By embracing the role of Deputy Manager, you become an essential leader within a team dedicated to delivering exceptional care and educational experiences to children, ensuring they thrive and reach their full potential.