Posted 16 March, 2026 Little Elmhurst Nursery (part of Elmhurst School) logo

Job details

  • Salary £31,000 to £33,000 per annum
  • Role Deputy Manager / Assistant Manager
  • Hours Full Time
  • Location South Croydon, London
  • Job Reference Deputy Manager

Job summary

Baby Room Manager / Deputy Manager

Little Elmhurst Nursery

Full Time – 40 hours per week (over 4 or 5 days)

Starting from £31,000 per year (dependent on experience)

About the Role

Little Elmhurst Nursery is looking for a passionate, experienced, and caring Baby Room Manager / Deputy Manager to join our team. This role involves leading the baby room team while supporting the wider nursery management to ensure the highest standards of care, learning, and development for children aged 0–2 years.

The successful candidate will create a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where babies can thrive and develop through play and exploration.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Management

  • Lead and support the baby room team, promoting a positive and collaborative working environment
  • Assist the Nursery Manager in the day-to-day running of the nursery
  • Ensure high-quality care and education in line with the EYFS framework
  • Support staff development through guidance, mentoring, and role modelling best practice
  • Maintain ratios and ensure staff deployment meets the needs of the children

Childcare & Learning

  • Plan and implement engaging, age-appropriate activities that support babies’ development
  • Monitor and support children’s learning through observations and assessments
  • Ensure individual learning journeys are accurate and up to date
  • Create a calm, warm, and nurturing environment for babies

Safeguarding & Wellbeing

  • Ensure safeguarding policies and procedures are always followed
  • Promote the health, safety, and wellbeing of all children
  • Maintain high standards of hygiene and safety within the baby room

Partnership with Parents

  • Build strong relationships with parents and carers
  • Provide regular updates and communication regarding children’s progress and wellbeing
  • Support settling-in processes for new babies and families

Administration

  • Support with nursery documentation, planning, and record keeping
  • Ensure compliance with Ofsted and nursery policies
  • Assist with staff rotas and room organisation where required

Requirements

  • Level 3 qualification in Early Years Childcare (minimum)
  • Previous experience working with babies in a nursery setting
  • Experience in a Room Leader, Senior Practitioner, or management role preferred
  • Strong knowledge of the EYFS framework
  • Excellent communication and leadership skills
  • Passion for providing outstanding childcare and early education
  • Strong organisational and teamwork skills

What We Offer

  • Salary starting from £32,000 (depending on experience)
  • Full-time role – 40 hours per week (over 4 or 5 days)
  • Childcare discount for staff
  • Supportive and friendly team environment
  • Opportunities for training and career progression
  • A rewarding role supporting babies in their early development

Skills / Qualifications:

  • Level 3 Qualified in Early Years