Being Deputy in a brand-new nursery means you are not walking into years of "this is how we've always done it."
Tiny Tots Recruitment is looking for an experienced Deputy Nursery Manager to join an exciting new early years setting opening in Marylebone, Central London in September 2026.
Working closely with the Nursery Manager, you will have the opportunity to help shape how the setting operates from the very beginning, supporting a new team as they establish routines, relationships and consistently high standards of practice.
The nursery brings together the EYFS, Montessori principles and Forest School learning, with an emphasis on independence, resilience, curiosity and meaningful real-world experiences. Children are encouraged to learn through hands-on activities, outdoor exploration and child-led play rather than spending their days moving through a rigid programme.
What you'll be doing: Supporting the Nursery Manager with the day-to-day leadership of the setting Taking responsibility for the nursery in the Manager's absence Helping establish strong routines and working practices ahead of and following the nursery opening Supporting, mentoring and motivating practitioners across the setting Leading by example within the nursery rooms Maintaining high standards of early years care and education Ensuring practice remains aligned with the EYFS Supporting the nursery's Montessori and child-led learning approach Encouraging outdoor and nature-based learning Maintaining excellent safeguarding and child protection standards Supporting staff induction, supervision and development Monitoring the quality of practice across the nursery Helping organise staffing and effective deployment Supporting observations, planning and children's developmental progress Building strong relationships with parents and carers Promoting inclusive practice and recognising children's individual needs Supporting nursery policies, records and regulatory compliance Helping prepare the setting for Ofsted Contributing ideas as the nursery develops and grows What we're looking for: A full and relevant Level 3 Early Years or Childcare qualification as a minimum Previous experience within an early years leadership position Deputy Manager, Third in Charge, Room Leader or similar experience Strong working knowledge of the EYFS Excellent safeguarding awareness Confidence supporting and developing other practitioners Strong organisational and communication skills The ability to lead confidently when the Nursery Manager is unavailable Someone comfortable working in a new setting where systems and culture are still being established A positive and solutions-focused approach An interest in Montessori, Forest School or nature-based learning would be an advantage Someone who wants their ideas and contribution to genuinely matter What's on offer: £33,000 to £37,000 per year Permanent, full-time employment Monday to Friday working Opportunity to join a brand-new nursery from launch Chance to help shape the culture and working practices from the beginning Continuous professional development Montessori-inspired early years practice Forest School and nature-based learning Child-led curriculum Central Marylebone location Opportunity to progress alongside a growing nursery Close working relationship with the Nursery Manager and Directors
The setting is particularly focused on professional practice rather than simply filling ratios. Its own information confirms that practitioners are qualified early years educators and that the nursery invests in continuous professional development, including knowledge across the EYFS, Montessori and Forest School practice.
Children will also have regular opportunities to explore the local community and outdoor spaces around Marylebone. Forest School experiences, local walks, gardening, sensory activities and practical life skills are built into the curriculum alongside the traditional seven areas of the EYFS.
For an experienced Room Leader or Third in Charge looking for the next step, this offers the chance to develop genuine nursery-wide leadership experience without immediately carrying the full responsibility of a Manager position.
If you're looking for a Deputy Nursery Manager job in Marylebone, an Early Years Deputy Manager role in Central London or a nursery leadership job in Westminster, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply today through Tiny Tots Recruitment for a confidential conversation about the opportunity.