28/01/2026
Job opportunity at Smiles Norton for Deputy Manager – Early Years!
Are you ready to take the next exciting step in your early years career — with flexibility, recognition, and a setting that truly lives its values?
At Smiles Nursery, our values are at the heart of everything we do.
We are passionate about creating a nurturing, inclusive, and inspiring environment where children come first, staff feel valued and supported, and everyone is encouraged to grow.
We are looking for a passionate, motivated Deputy Manager to join our vibrant and caring team.
This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced early years professional who shares our values of kindness, respect, teamwork, high standards, and putting children and families at the centre of everything we do.
As Deputy Manager, you’ll play a key role in shaping the quality of care and education across the setting — supporting the Nursery Manager, leading by example, and helping our team thrive.
What you’ll be doing:
✨Supporting the Nursery Manager in the confident, day-to-day running of the nursery
✨Leading, motivating, and inspiring staff in line with the Smiles ethos and values
✨Championing safeguarding and high-quality practice across the setting
✨Creating exciting, stimulating environments where children feel safe, happy, and valued
✨Supporting planning and children’s individual learning journeys
✨Stepping up to lead the setting in the Manager’s absence
What we’re looking for:
* Level 3 (or above) Early Years qualification
* Experience in a senior or leadership role within an early years setting
* A warm, values-led leader who leads with care, confidence, and purpose
* Strong knowledge of EYFS and safeguarding
What we offer:
✨ £14.50 per hour (£30,160 per annum full-time)
✨ Flexible working hours – 30 to 40 hours per week considered
✨ Term-time only considered for the right candidate
✨ A supportive, values-driven leadership team
✨ Real opportunities for progression and professional development
✨ Employee of the Month scheme celebrating outstanding practice
✨ Employee of the Year, rewarded with a FREE holiday 🏖️
✨ Christmas bonus as a thank you for your hard work and commitment 🎄
✨ Discounted childcare for staff
✨ Annual leave ranges from 28 to 34 days.
✨ A warm, welcoming workplace where you are genuinely appreciated
If you share our values and are ready to step into a role where your leadership, passion, and dedication are recognised and rewarded, we would love to hear from you.
Please send your CV and covering letter to our Nursery Director, Maxine Leech, at
[email protected].