Third in Charge

Nursery Third in Charge – Job Description

Purpose of the Role

The Nursery Third in Charge plays a key leadership role within the nursery, supporting the Nursery Manager and Deputy Manager in the effective day-to-day running of the setting. The post holder will demonstrate strong professional practice, a secure understanding of statutory requirements, and a commitment to high-quality early years provision in line with the EYFS, Ofsted expectations, and company policies.

This role includes taking managerial responsibility during extended nursery hours, acting as a role model for staff, and contributing to a positive, inclusive, and well-organised nursery environment.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Management

• Support the Nursery Manager and Deputy Manager in the effective daily management of the nursery.
• Take responsibility for leading the setting during designated periods, including opening and closing the nursery.
• Ensure all company policies, procedures, and statutory welfare requirements are consistently followed.
• Act as a positive role model, demonstrating high standards of professional conduct and early years practice.
• Support effective staff deployment to ensure the needs of children and the setting are met at all times.

Safeguarding and Welfare

• Take shared responsibility for the safety, security, and wellbeing of all children, staff, and visitors.
• Ensure safeguarding procedures are followed in line with Local Authority and company policies.
• Promote a strong safeguarding culture, supporting staff to understand and implement safeguarding responsibilities.
• Report and respond appropriately to any concerns or breaches of policy.

Staff Support and Development

• Act as a mentor to new staff, supporting induction, ongoing development, and professional confidence.
• Provide guidance and support to staff, addressing concerns and escalating issues where appropriate.
• Promote staff engagement and contribute ideas to support morale and team wellbeing.
• Challenge practice that does not align with the nursery’s Inclusive Practice and Equal Opportunities Policy.

Quality of Practice and Childcare

• Reflect on practice and support continuous improvement across the nursery.
• Ensure children are treated as individuals and supported through high-quality planning in line with the EYFS.
• Work collaboratively with the management team to ensure standards consistently meet Ofsted and EYFS requirements.
• Support effective communication with families, responding to questions or concerns in a professional and timely manner and escalating where necessary.

Environment, Health and Safety

• Ensure health and safety procedures are consistently implemented, including visitor management and security checks.
• Maintain a strong working knowledge of health and safety requirements, including risk assessments and COSHH.
• Raise and record maintenance concerns, liaising with the Nursery Manager as required.
• Support staff to create enabling, child-led indoor and outdoor learning environments.
• Promote good hygiene practices and high standards of cleanliness throughout the setting.

Professional Expectations

• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times.
• Work collaboratively as part of the wider nursery leadership team.
• Demonstrate flexibility and a proactive approach to supporting the needs of the nursery.
• Commit to ongoing professional development and reflective practice.

• Childcare Discount
• Company Pension
• Lots of training available
• Free and Confidential, Counselling helpline for staff members and family
• Exclusive staff benefit discount club