Some nurseries have history. This one has generations of it.
Tiny Tots Recruitment is looking for an experienced Deputy Nursery Manager to join a long-established independent nursery in Reading, Berkshire.
The setting has cared for local children since 1971, with some families now bringing the children and grandchildren of former nursery children through its doors. Despite that history, the nursery continues to develop its provision, leadership structure and approach to early education.
This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced early years leader who wants meaningful responsibility without becoming disconnected from the children and practitioners they are leading.
Working alongside the Nursery Manager and senior leadership team, you'll help shape everyday practice, develop staff and make sure the nursery remains a happy, organised and ambitious place for children and adults alike.
What you'll be doing: Supporting the Nursery Manager with the overall leadership of the setting Taking responsibility for the nursery when required Providing visible and approachable leadership to practitioners and Room Leaders Maintaining high standards of early education, care and safeguarding Supporting staff supervision, mentoring and professional development Helping organise staffing, deployment and the smooth running of the nursery day Monitoring the quality of practice across the nursery rooms Ensuring the EYFS is embedded effectively throughout the setting Supporting planning, observations and children's developmental outcomes Building positive and professional relationships with parents and carers Helping staff provide effective support for children with SEND Working collaboratively with the setting's SENCO and safeguarding leads Supporting recruitment, induction and retention of nursery employees Helping maintain policies, records and regulatory requirements Contributing to preparation for Ofsted and other regulatory activity Identifying opportunities to continually improve the nursery Supporting a working culture where practitioners feel confident, valued and able to develop What we're looking for: A full and relevant Level 3 Early Years or Childcare qualification as a minimum Strong experience working within an early years environment Previous Deputy Manager, Assistant Manager, Senior Room Leader or comparable leadership experience Excellent practical knowledge of the EYFS Strong safeguarding and child protection knowledge Experience mentoring, supervising or developing nursery practitioners Confidence supporting children with a range of individual needs Strong communication and organisational skills The ability to make sound decisions and remain calm under pressure Someone who can balance high professional standards with a warm and supportive leadership style What's on offer: £34,000 to £37,000 per year Permanent, full-time employment Discretionary bonus scheme Your birthday off every year Staff childcare discount Company pension Cycle to Work scheme Company events On-site parking Excellent public transport links Ongoing CPD and professional development Independent, family-run nursery environment Genuine influence within the nursery leadership team Opportunity to develop towards Nursery Manager level
The setting itself has a very different feel from a purpose-built chain nursery.
It operates from a large Victorian house designed to maintain a welcoming, home-from-home atmosphere, with separate spaces created around children's ages and stages. Outside, children have access to around a quarter of an acre of garden, including a large sandpit, mud kitchen, growing areas, all-weather provision and plenty of opportunities for hands-on learning about nature.
There is also considerable experience within the team around inclusion. The nursery has a dedicated SENCO, staff trained in positive behaviour support and provides regular development to help practitioners meet children's individual needs.
This would particularly suit a strong Room Leader or existing Deputy who wants their next position to involve real leadership responsibility, while still working within an independent setting where relationships with staff and families remain personal.
If you're looking for a Deputy Nursery Manager job in Reading, an Early Years Deputy Manager job in Berkshire or a nursery leadership position near West Reading, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply today through Tiny Tots Recruitment for a confidential conversation about the opportunity.