Nursery Deputy Manager

• Bows and Arrows Group
• Address: Oak Wood Nursery 251a Clapgate Lane Ipswich Suffolk IP3 0RH
• Salary: 15.86 per hour
• Hours: Full-time 38 hours per week 7.45am - 6.15pm
• Contract: Permanent
• Reference: 0784

Inspire. Lead. Grow and be a leader in little lives.

Bows and Arrows Group is looking for a passionate and experienced Early Years Deputy Manager to help shape the future of our setting at Oak Wood Nursery and Forest School.

This is your opportunity to take on a rewarding leadership role where childhood wonder meets educational excellence in a nursery that truly puts children and staff at the heart of everything we do.

About Us

Oak Wood Nursery and Forest School is part of the Bows and Arrows Group a not-for-profit organisation with seven nurseries across Ipswich and one clear mission: To ensure every child flourishes.

As a not-for-profit every penny goes back into our settings; funding great people inspiring spaces and exceptional care.

We believe in outdoor play every day; from beautiful outdoor spaces and forest school sessions we give children the freedom to explore imagine and thrive in nature.

Aim High with The Bows and Arrows Group where little lives grow and big hearts lead.

What Youll Do

As Deputy Manager youll work closely with the Nursery Manager to lead a talented team of Senior Early Years Educators Early Years Educators and Apprentices.

Your responsibilities

• Leading inspiring and supporting your team to deliver outstanding early years practice with a large portion of your role ensuring modelling and delivering quality in all the rooms. Supporting the planning delivery and monitoring of the curriculum Monitoring and evaluating the impact of your support.
• Creating and maintaining a safe nurturing and stimulating environment.
• Acting as the person in charge and DSL (Designated Safeguarding Lead) in the managers absence.
• Opening and / or closing the nursery between the hours of 7.45am - 6.15pm.
• Keeping accurate records of room developments / progress and support.
• Ensuring compliance with legislation and company policies.
• Managing day-to-day operations; including absences rotas holidays training and performance reviews.
• Championing inclusive education and meaningful partnerships with families

What Youll Bring to the role

A Level 3 qualification (or higher) in Early Years / Childcare.

A strong understanding of:

• The EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage)
• Child development theory
• The HighScope approach to behaviour
• Safeguarding and Child Protection
• SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities)
• Health and Safety and risk assessments in early years settings
• Excellent leadership communication and team collaboration skills
• A passion for learning adventure and making a real difference

What We Offer

At Oak Wood we value and invest in our team. As part of our team youll enjoy:

• Childcare discounts.
• Casual dress and a warm welcoming environment.
• Regular team and company events.
• Health and wellbeing support.
• Pension scheme.
• Free on-site parking.
• Opportunities for continued professional development.
• Most importantly the opportunity to do meaningful work that truly changes lives.

Ready to Join Us

If youre ready to inspire lead and grow alongside a passionate and dedicated team then wed love to hear from you so apply now.

To find out more

For further information or an informal discussion please call Shannon Page on .

How to apply

To apply please email a Cover Letter and your CV (Curriculum Vitae) to

Closing date: 6.00 pm 26 June 2026.

Interview date: Rolling interviews so early application is advised.

All roles require an Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check and a strong commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.