DEPUTY NURSERY MANAGER – PETWORTH NURSERY

Location: Petworth, West Sussex
Position: Full-Time
Salary: Competitive (based on experience)
Hours: 30-40
Are you an experienced early years professional who’s confident, caring, and ready to help lead thriving nursery? We’re looking for a proactive and supportive Deputy Manager to join our friendly team and help shape a fun, safe, and enriching environment for both children and staff!
What You’ll Be Doing:
As Deputy Manager, you’ll work closely with the Nursery Manager to keep the nursery running smoothly day-to-day. You’ll lead by example on the floor, support your team’s development, and make sure children’s learning and wellbeing are always top priority.
Key Responsibilities:
Room Oversight & Leadership
* Check in regularly across rooms to ensure smooth routines and effective staff deployment
* Support Room Leaders in managing transitions, planning, and organisation
* Ensure staff-to-child ratios are always met and policies are followed
Staff Supervision & Development
* Provide regular observations, feedback, and support to team members
* Identify training needs and coach staff to build confidence and skills
* Encourage reflective practice and a culture of growth and improvement
Planning, Observations & Assessments
* Ensure planning and observations are meaningful, consistent, and meet EYFS requirements
* Review children’s progress and assessments, and support key workers with next steps
* Help maintain up-to-date learning journals and tracking documents
Environment & Safety Checks
* Carry out regular audits to make sure learning spaces are clean, safe, and engaging
* Monitor health & safety standards, risk assessments, and hygiene routines
* Keep an eye on equipment and resources—and make sure first aid supplies are always stocked
Allergy & Medical Information Management
* Make sure allergy, dietary, and medical information is clearly displayed and understood by all staff
* Monitor food handling and mealtimes to ensure children’s needs are fully met
Parent Partnerships & Show Rounds
* Lead professional, friendly tours for prospective families
* Support key-worker handovers, meetings, and any parent queries or concerns
General Leadership
* Step in for the Nursery Manager when needed
* Support with rotas, recruitment, and team planning
* Champion our nursery values, safeguarding standards, and high expectations every day
What We’re Looking For:
* A minimum Level 3 qualification in Early Years
* Significant early years experience
* Strong understanding of EYFS, child development, and safeguarding
* A confident leader with great communication skills and a hands-on approach
* Organised, reflective, and genuinely passionate about early years education
Why Join Us?
* A positive, down-to-earth team that supports each other
* Ongoing training and career development
* Real opportunities to shape practice and take ownership
* A fun, rewarding role where every day is different
* A nursery that values your ideas and celebrates your strengths
Sound like the role for you? We’d love to hear from you! Send us your CV and a short message about why you’d be a great fit.
Let’s make a difference—together.
The job advert may close early if a suitable applicant is found.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £15.47 per hour

Benefits:

• Childcare
• Company events
• Company pension
• Employee discount
• Free flu jabs
• On-site parking
• Transport links

Work Location: In perso

Please refer the Job description for details