Deputy Manager

If you are offered a Deputy Manager role, you will received a £1000 recruitment bonus after successfully completing your 3 month probation period.

We are looking for an exceptional Deputy Manager to join our management team at our Hedgerows Nursery in Milton Keynes. This is a permanent position, initially covering maternity leave. Further discussions regarding vacancies will take place at the end of the maternity leave. 

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced Senior Practitioner who is ready to take the next step in their career and play a key role in leading a high-quality, child-centred provision.

As Deputy Manager, you will work closely with the Nursery Manager to ensure the smooth day-to-day running of the nursery, role-modelling excellent practice and supporting the team to deliver outstanding care and education. You will take a lead on operational standards, staff development, safeguarding, and creating a warm, inclusive environment where children thrive.

Key Responsibilities

· Support the Manager with the overall leadership and management of the nursery.

· Lead and inspire the team, promoting a positive, collaborative working culture.

· Maintain high standards of care, education, and safeguarding across the setting.

· Support planning, curriculum implementation, and quality assurance.

· Build strong relationships with families, children, and colleagues.

· Take responsibility for the nursery in the Manager’s absence.

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About You

We are looking for someone who:

· Has strong leadership skills and enjoys supporting and developing others.

· Demonstrates excellent practice and a commitment to Acorn’s values.

· Is confident in safeguarding and understanding regulatory requirements.

· Is organised, proactive, and able to communicate effectively with staff and families.

· Holds a relevant Level 3 qualification or above.

As a thank you for all of your hard work and dedication to making Acorn a safe, nurturing and fun place for our children to be, we offer:

• Payscales that are competitive, transparent and reviewed annually
• 65% Childcare discount - Pro Rata according to contracted hours
• Christmas closure
• 25 days of annual leave, plus bank holidays (and the option to buy more)
• 4 dedicated training days and individual development plans
• Enhanced pension scheme
• Cyclescheme
• Techscheme
• Length of Service awards
• Summer and Christmas parties
• Pay advances
• Employee assistance wellbeing programme