Merlin House provides stimulating and enabling environments for children aged 0-5 years old. Conveniently located near Haywards Heath train station, Kiddie Capers offers ease of access for commuting parents. With opening hours from 7:00 am to 6:30 pm, we provide flexibility to accommodate the needs of busy families. We pride ourselves on our engaging and educational outings. We believe that hands-on experiences outside the nursery walls enhance children’s learning and development. Through regular outings to local parks, libraries, and other educational venues, we expose children to new environments, fostering their curiosity and broadening their knowledge.
We are looking for a Deputy Nursery Manager to join our team on a maternity cover contract. This person will support the Nursery Manager in leading and inspiring our team to provide exceptional care and Early Years education for young children. You will assist in overseeing the daily operations of the nursery, helping to ensure a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment that promotes each child’s development.
Your role will involve supporting the nursery’s ethos, maintaining high standards, and fostering positive relationships with parents, staff, and the wider community. You will also take on leadership responsibilities in the absence of the Nursery Manager, helping to drive continuous improvement and staff development.
If you’re excited to be part of a dynamic, child-centred setting that values outdoor learning and creative exploration, we’d love to hear from you!

REQUIREMENTS:

• A minimum of level 3 qualification in Early Years Education or equivalent
• Experience of working in a childcare setting
• Experience in being a Room Leader or Deputy in a nursery setting
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children

MORE ABOUT US

Kiddie Capers Childcare has 12 settings located across Sussex from Ardingly to the South Coast. Owned and operated by two local families, Kiddie Capers Childcare provide a truly enriching early years education, where every child’s potential is reached, and individuality is celebrated.

At Kiddie Capers we truly believe in living our values every day, our values are,

• Evolving
• Teamwork
• Positivity
• Individuality
• Lead by example
• Fun

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £34,000.00-£36,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Childcare
• Company events
• Company pension
• Employee discount
• Free parking
• Health & wellbeing programme
• On-site parking
• Sick pay
• Store discount

Application question(s):

• Do you live within 10 miles of the nursery?

Work Location: In perso

• Ensure a high standard of care, education, and EYFS delivery within the setting
• Assist in managing and supporting nursery staff, promoting a nurturing environment while ensuring compliance with childcare regulations and quality standards
• Maintain safeguarding, health & safety, and hygiene standards, including daily checks and accurate record-keeping
• Liaise professionally with parents/carers, promoting strong partnerships
• Plan and deliver stimulating activities that support children’s development
• Monitor individual child progress and ensure inclusive, tailored planning
• Support children’s welfare, including personal care and nutrition
• Organise safe, well-managed outings and external activities
• Ensure confidentiality and uphold all nursery policies and procedures
• Be a key holder and respond to emergencies as required
• Collaborate with external professionals and participate in ongoing staff training