Deputy Manager-New Nursery Opening April 2026-North Hykeham

Job summary

Nursery Location: North Hykeham, Lincoln

Start Date: April 2026 (to support pre-opening)

About the Nursery

We are excited to be opening a brand-new private day nursery in April 2026, designed to provide high-quality early education and care in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). Our vision is to create a nurturing, inclusive, and stimulating environment where children feel safe, valued, and supported to reach their full potential.

This is a unique opportunity to be part of a new nursery from the very beginning and to help shape the culture, practice, and standards of the setting.

The Role

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Deputy Nursery Manager to work alongside the Nursery Manager in preparing for the opening and supporting the day-to-day leadership of the nursery.

You will play a key role in establishing strong safeguarding practice, embedding high-quality teaching and learning, and ensuring the nursery is fully compliant with Ofsted and statutory requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Nursery Manager in setting up and running the nursery in line with EYFS and Ofsted requirements

• Take an active role in pre-opening preparations, including policies, procedures, staffing, and room organisation

• Promote a culture of safeguarding, acting as DSL or Deputy DSL where required

• Lead and support staff to deliver consistently high-quality care and education

• Support planning, observation, and assessment to ensure children make good progress

• Ensure health & safety and welfare requirements are fully met

• Support staff supervision, appraisals, induction, and ongoing professional development

• Build positive partnerships with parents, carers, and external professionals

• Take responsibility for the nursery in the Manager’s absence

• Support readiness for registration and future Ofsted inspections

About You

• Level 3 Early Years qualification (Level 5+ desirable)

• Experience in a leadership role within an early years or nursery setting

• Strong knowledge of EYFS, safeguarding, and the Ofsted inspection framework

• Confident, reflective practitioner with strong leadership skills

• Passionate about delivering high-quality early education

• Organised, proactive, and excited by the opportunity to help launch a new nursery

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits

• The opportunity to be part of a new nursery from opening

• Supportive leadership and clear career progression

• Ongoing training and professional development

• A positive, child-centred working environment

Safeguarding Statement

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks and satisfactory references.

How to Apply
Please apply with your CV and a covering statement to