Interim Deputy Nursery Manager – Early Years

We are currently recruiting an experienced Interim Deputy Nursery Manager for a well-established early years setting on a rolling placement. This is a full-time, term-time only role, ideal for a confident early years professional who can start as soon as possible.

This position is within an all-ability setting; while SEND specialist experience is not required, the Interim Deputy Nursery Manager may work with children with additional needs as part of an inclusive environment.

Key Information

• Start Date: 2nd February • Hours: 7:30am – 3:30pm • Contract: Full time, term time only • Salary: £27,000 per annum

The Role – Day-to-Day Duties

As Interim Deputy Nursery Manager, you will support the Nursery Manager/Supervisor in the effective daily running of the setting while remaining hands-on and in ratio. Responsibilities include:

• Supporting the daily operational management of the nursery • Working directly with children across the setting, remaining in ratio at all times • Planning and delivering engaging, developmentally appropriate activities in line with the EYFS • Supervising indoor and outdoor play and ensuring a safe, nurturing learning environment • Working with all children, including those with SEND, ensuring inclusion and appropriate support • Acting as a Key Worker, including: • Completing observations and assessments • Maintaining learning journeys • Monitoring progress and supporting next steps • Ensuring safeguarding, health and safety, and welfare procedures are followed at all times • Supporting staff with daily routines, best practice, and expectations • Assisting with administrative and leadership duties, including: • Collection and monitoring of assessment data • Supporting planning, audits, and documentation • Assisting the Manager/Supervisor with assessments and reporting

Person Specification

• A relevant Early Years qualification, such as: • Level 3 Diploma in Early Years Education (or equivalent) • Level 5 or above in Early Years, Childcare, or Leadership (desirable) • Recent experience working within an early years or nursery setting • Strong knowledge of the EYFS framework and child development • A clear understanding of safeguarding responsibilities and procedures • Experience as a Key Worker, including observations, assessments, and learning journeys • Confidence supporting children with a range of needs, including SEND • Confident working in a senior or leadership capacity while remaining hands-on • Strong organisational and communication skills • Flexible, reliable, and adaptable in an interim role

Desirable

• Previous experience as a Interim Deputy Nursery Manager, Room Leader, Senior Practitioner, or EYFS Teacher • Experience supporting inspections, audits, or internal quality assurance • Confidence using early years assessment or tracking systems • Ability to support, guide, and motivate staff as part of a team

Why Apply?

• Leadership opportunity within a supportive early years environment as Interim Deputy Nursery Manager • Term-time only hours supporting work–life balance • Competitive salary for an interim post • Opportunity to make an immediate impact