Deputy Nursery Manager

Deputy Nursery Manager – Southwater, West Sussex RH13
Join an Outstanding Ofsted-rated Forest School nursery in Southwater, West Sussex, commutable from Horsham and surrounding areas, where childcare, outdoor learning, creativity, and exceptional early years education are at the heart of the setting.

Employment Type
Full-time or part-time permanent opportunity within a well-established and expanding nursery group.
No sponsorship available for this role. You must have the permanent right to work in the UK.

Salary
£32,000 – £40,000 per year dependent on experience + benefits.

Pay & Benefits

• Competitive salary with progression opportunities
• Industry-leading benefits package
• Up to 80% childcare discount
• Employee discount scheme
• Performance bonuses and staff reward schemes
• Contribution towards Christmas shopping costs
• Funded training and professional development
• Clear career progression opportunities
• Supportive leadership and mentorship
• International travel opportunities for qualified childcare professionals
• Creative and inspiring learning environments
• Opportunity to grow within an expanding nursery group

Working Hours & Shift Pattern
Permanent role offering full-time or part-time flexibility, working approximately 30–40 hours per week.
Based within a Forest School nursery setting in Southwater, West Sussex RH13.

• Nursery operates 51 weeks per year
• Operating hours are 7:30am – 6:00pm
• Mix of room-based practice and wider nursery leadership responsibilities
• Supportive team environment with ongoing development opportunities
• Hands-on leadership role across nursery operations and childcare delivery

Job Description
As a Deputy Nursery Manager, you will join an Outstanding Ofsted-rated Forest School nursery in Southwater, West Sussex RH13, supporting the Nursery Manager in delivering exceptional childcare and early years education within a creative, nurturing, and outdoor-focused environment.

The setting is inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach and supports children aged 0–5 through hands-on, enquiry-led learning, creative exploration, and meaningful outdoor experiences. Children benefit from access to a private 11-acre woodland nearby, with Forest School learning forming a key part of the nursery experience.

This Deputy Nursery Manager role is ideal for an experienced early years professional who is passionate about high-quality nurseries & early years practice, child-led learning, safeguarding, EYFS practice, and supporting a positive team culture.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Nursery Manager with the day-to-day running of the nursery
• Support early years leadership across the nursery environment
• Deliver engaging early years learning experiences for children aged 0–5
• Lead by example to maintain high standards of childcare and education
• Maintain Outstanding standards aligned with EYFS and Ofsted expectations
• Create safe, stimulating, and inclusive learning environments
• Support and mentor nursery practitioners and wider team members
• Build strong partnerships with parents, carers, and families
• Promote outdoor learning, Forest School experiences, and creative play
• Maintain accurate observations, communication, and nursery documentation

Requirements

• Permanent right to work in the UK with no sponsorship requirement
• Level 3 qualification or above in Early Years is essential
• Previous Deputy Nursery Manager or senior early years experience is required
• Strong understanding of EYFS, safeguarding, and Forest School childcare environments
• Ability to support nursery operations, team leadership, and child development
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• Proactive, enthusiastic, and able to work independently and collaboratively
• Also suitable for: Deputy Nursery Manager, Nursery Deputy Manager, Assistant Nursery Manager, Nursery Assistant Manager, Early Years Deputy Manager, Senior Nursery Practitioner, Third in Charge, Room Leader, Early Years Room Leader, Lead Practitioner

Company Culture
As a Deputy Nursery Manager, you will be joining a creative, supportive, and highly regarded nursery setting with a strong focus on outdoor learning, Reggio Emilia-inspired practice, professional development, and child-centred education.

The team encourages curiosity, independence, creativity, and confidence in children, while offering staff a workplace where training, progression, mentorship, and collaborative working are genuinely valued. The environment combines strong leadership support with an inspiring educational philosophy where both children and staff are encouraged to thrive.

Apply Today
If you are an experienced early years professional looking to progress your career within an Outstanding Ofsted-rated childcare and Forest School setting in Southwater, West Sussex RH13, this is an excellent opportunity to join a supportive and forward-thinking nursery environment.

Your skills, leadership, and passion for early years education will be genuinely valued within a team committed to helping both children and educators flourish. Apply today to take the next step in your childcare and early years leadership career.

Applications will be reviewed as they are received, so early interest is warmly encouraged

Contact Details
Recruit by Nature
George Francis
George@recruitbynature.co.uk
Direct Line: 0118 334 8424
WhatsApp: 07782217154