For nurseries
Recruit a deputy nursery manager
Second in command, and usually the person who runs the floor while the manager runs the business. We find and match; your own vetting, DBS and reference checks run as normal.
What the role covers
- Running the setting day to day, and covering the manager's absence in full
- Rotas, ratios and the daily arithmetic of who can be where
- Supervisions, appraisals and the first stage of performance and conduct issues
- Safeguarding, often as deputy designated lead
- Being inspection-ready, and able to evidence practice rather than describe it
- Occupancy, waiting lists and show-rounds in most independent settings
What to look for
- Level 3 minimum, with Level 5 increasingly expected in group settings
- Room leader or senior experience, with proof you have led adults and not only children
- Someone who can be told an inspector is in reception and stay useful
- A permanent commitment: owners hire deputies for years, not months
Guide salary: £30,000 to £37,000 outside London. See how we work these out.
Questions
Hiring a deputy nursery manager
What should we pay a deputy nursery manager?
Our 2026 guide puts this role at £30,000 to £37,000 outside London outside London. Settings that advertise below the local band tend to wait considerably longer, which usually costs more than the difference.
How long will it take to fill?
Practitioner and room leader searches usually produce a shortlist within a week and an offer within three to four weeks. Manager and deputy searches run four to six weeks because the field is smaller and notice periods are longer.
Do you place temporary cover for this role?
No. We place permanent staff only.
Get in touch