Chestnuts Pre-School - Deputy Manager

We are seeking an Early Years Deputy Manager for our term time only pre-school! You’ll play a key part in creating a nurturing, inspiring, and joyful environment where children feel safe, valued, and excited to learn. Working closely with the Manager, you’ll help lead our team, support high‑quality practice, and ensure every child receives the best possible start in life.

This role is perfect for someone who leads with kindness, communicates with warmth, and brings a genuine passion for early childhood development.

Responsibilities

Lead by example, modelling positive interactions, professionalism, and a child‑centred approach.

Support staff with guidance, coaching, and encouragement to help them develop their skills.

Assist with staff deployment, rotas, and ensuring ratios are always maintained

Work alongside the Manager to uphold high standards of safeguarding, health and safety, and compliance.

Contribute to planning, observations, and assessments to support children’s learning journeys.

Help maintain a warm, welcoming, and well‑organised setting environment.

Step into the Manager’s role when required, ensuring smooth day‑to‑day operations.

Skills

A nurturing, child‑centred approach that puts wellbeing and joy at the heart of everything.

Warm, positive communication that helps children, families, and colleagues feel valued and understood.

A calm, reassuring presence, especially during busy or challenging moments.

Creativity and enthusiasm that bring learning experiences to life.

The ability to inspire, motivate, and guide a team with kindness and clarity.

Confidence in offering constructive feedback and coaching to help others grow.

Strong organisational skills to support smooth daily operations and effective staff deployment.

Reliability and professionalism, especially when stepping into the Manager’s role.

A solid understanding of the EYFS and how to translate it into meaningful, playful learning.

Awareness of child development and how to support children at different stages.

Commitment to safeguarding, with the ability to recognise and respond to concerns appropriately.

Knowledge of best practice in inclusive, high‑quality early years provision.

Strong observation, assessment, and planning skills to support children’s learning journeys.

Good time‑management and the ability to prioritise effectively.

Confidence in maintaining accurate records and supporting compliance with policies and procedures.

Problem‑solving skills and the ability to think on your feet.

The ability to build warm, trusting relationships with families and work in partnership with them.

A collaborative approach that values teamwork and open communication.

Sensitivity, empathy, and respect for each child’s unique background and needs.

Why Join Us

A warm, friendly team who value collaboration and celebrate each other’s strengths.

A setting that prioritises wellbeing—for children and staff alike.

Opportunities for professional development and career progression.

A chance to make a meaningful difference every single day

Chestnuts Preschool is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and expects staff to share this commitment. This position requires a criminal record check with the Disclosure and Barring Service.