Deputy Manager

Are you an inspiring early years leader who is passionate about creativity, outdoor learning, and providing children with meaningful hands-on experiences?

Do you thrive in a collaborative environment where curiosity, exploration, and engagement are at the heart of everyday practice?

Rikama Education are supporting a thriving nursery in South East London, ideally located with excellent transport links, making it easily accessible from across London and the surrounding areas.


The nursery is built around the belief that children learn best through exploration, discovery, and active engagement. We offer rich learning environments both indoors and outdoors, encouraging creativity, practical learning opportunities, and strong partnerships between children, families, and educators.



The Role:


As Deputy Nursery Manager, you will play a key role in supporting the day-to-day running of the nursery while helping to lead, motivate, and inspire a dedicated team of early years professionals. You will work closely with the Nursery Manager to maintain outstanding standards of care and education, ensure safeguarding compliance, and create an environment where children and staff can flourish.



You will be a positive role model, championing our values of collaboration, creativity, and child-centred learning while supporting the continued growth and success of the setting.



Key Responsibilities:
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Support the overall leadership and management of the nursery

- Act as a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) when required

- Lead, mentor, and support staff to deliver exceptional early years practice
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Promote creativity, outdoor learning, and practical experiences throughout the curriculum
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Ensure compliance with EYFS, safeguarding, and regulatory requirements
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Build strong partnerships with parents, carers, and external professionals
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Support staff development through coaching, supervisions, and training
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Assist with occupancy growth, retention, and the smooth running of daily operations
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Foster a culture of engagement, teamwork, and continuous improvement


What They're Looking For:
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Full and relevant Level 3 Early Years qualification or above

- Previous experience in an early years leadership role, such as Deputy Manager, Assistant Manager, Third in Charge, or similar

- Strong knowledge of EYFS, safeguarding, and child development

- Experience supporting teams to achieve high-quality outcomes
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Excellent communication, organisational, and leadership skills
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A genuine passion for outdoor learning, creativity, and child-led experiences
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Ability to build positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues
What

What they Offer:
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Competitive salary
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Term-time only working pattern, supporting a healthy work-life balance
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Supportive and collaborative leadership team
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Excellent opportunities for professional development and career progression
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Well-resourced learning environments, including exciting outdoor spaces
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A warm, welcoming, and inclusive nursery community
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Convenient South East London location with excellent public transport connections
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The opportunity to make a lasting impact on children's learning and development



We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expect all staff to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be subject to enhanced DBS checks, references, and safer recruitment procedures

Please email your CV to laurapower@rikama-education.com or call 0203 800 1029.