Deputy Nursery Manager

Location: Coventry
Job Type: Permanent, Full-time
Hours: 40 hours per week, Monday–Friday
Working Pattern: Various shifts between 7:00am and 6:00pm
Working Weeks: 51 weeks per year
Salary: £32,344 – £34,216 per annum

ACR Recruitment & Training Ltd are currently recruiting for an experienced and motivated Deputy Nursery Manager to join a well-established Early Years setting in Coventry.

This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate Early Years professional who is ready to take the next step in their career and play an important role in supporting the day-to-day management of a busy nursery.

The setting provides high-quality early years experiences for children aged 0–5. It places a strong emphasis on nurturing, protecting and supporting children to develop into happy, confident and well-rounded individuals.

About the Role

Working closely with the Nursery Manager, you will help oversee the day-to-day running of the setting while supporting and developing a dedicated Early Years team.

You will play a key role in maintaining high standards of care, education and safeguarding, while helping to create an environment where children can learn, explore and thrive.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Nursery Manager with the day-to-day management and operation of the setting
• Assist in leading, supervising and motivating the Early Years team
• Support practitioners in delivering high-quality childcare and learning experiences
• Help ensure activities and experiences support children's individual development and interests
• Promote learning through play and responsive, child-led experiences
• Support the planning and implementation of engaging activities in line with the EYFS
• Maintain high standards of safeguarding, health and safety and professional practice
• Support staff with planning, observations, assessments and children's development
• Build positive and effective relationships with parents and carers
• Assist with staff rotas, record keeping, administration and other operational responsibilities
• Support the Nursery Manager with staff development, performance and team organisation
• Help maintain a positive, professional and collaborative nursery environment
• Step into the Manager's role when required, providing leadership and continuity across the setting

About You

We're looking for an experienced Early Years professional who is confident supporting a team and is ready to develop their leadership responsibilities.

You will ideally have:

• Previous experience working in a nursery or Early Years setting
• Experience in a senior, supervisory or leadership position
• Strong knowledge and understanding of the EYFS
• A good understanding of safeguarding and child protection
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• The ability to lead, support and motivate a team
• Excellent organisation and time-management skills
• A caring, professional and child-centred approach
• The ability to remain calm and adaptable within a busy nursery environment
• Confidence communicating with parents, carers and colleagues
• A genuine passion for supporting children's learning, development and wellbeing

A relevant Early Years qualification at Level 3 or above is expected for this role.

Working Pattern

This is a permanent, full-time position offering 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday, for 51 weeks of the year.

The role operates across a variety of shifts between:

7:00am – 6:00pm

Flexibility across the working week is therefore required.

Salary & Benefits

£32,344 – £34,216 per annum, depending on experience and suitability.

The successful candidate will also benefit from a comprehensive package, including:

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays following completion of the 6-month probationary period
• Opportunity to earn up to 4 additional days' annual leave through good attendance
• 40% childcare discount
• 10% friends & family childcare discount
• 8 hours per year for appointments or events supporting your wellbeing
• 6 weeks' full maternity pay + 6 weeks' half maternity pay
• Annual bonus scheme
• Employee referral scheme
• Company pension
• Sick pay
• Bereavement leave
• Annual awards ceremony
• Training and professional development opportunities
• Rewards linked to Good and Outstanding Ofsted outcomes

Take the Next Step in Your Early Years Career

If you're an experienced Early Years professional looking to progress into a Deputy Manager position, we'd love to hear from you.

This is an excellent opportunity to take on greater responsibility, support a dedicated team and contribute to the delivery of high-quality care and education for children.