Deputy Preschool manager and SENCO

Overview

We are seeking a dedicated and passionate Deputy Preschool Manager to assist with the Preschool Manager in overseeing the daily operations of our preschool. The post is a term time role, working to Hampshire County Councils academic calendar. The ideal candidate will have a strong commitment to early childhood education and will play a crucial role in creating a nurturing and stimulating environment for young children.

This position requires effective leadership skills, a deep understanding of educational practices, and the ability to foster positive relationships with children, parents, and staff.

• Ensure the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is promoted and delivered within the setting and the principles adhered to.
• Work alongside the Manager to draw termly plans and which take into account the requirements of the EYFS.
• Be a key person to children within the preschool, maintaining appropriate ratios and performing all the deeds a regular preschool staff member would.
• Ensure that each child is working towards learning outcomes, while monitoring the effectiveness of the pre‑school curriculum through regular observations and assessments.
• Supervise and support staff to deliver the daily programme of pre‑school activities and events and ensure high standards of care and teaching are met.
• Ensure children’s records are properly administered and maintain other records such as register of attendance, fire records, accident/incident books and inventory books.
• Maintain high standards of hygiene, consistently implement safety procedures, carry out and record fire drills for a week every half term.
• Perform administrative duties, respond to emails, onboard new starters etc.
• Monitor and collate H.S.E logs and information.
• Serve as a key holder for the pre‑school.
• Undertake training and be responsible for role specific requirements (i.e. Safeguarding, Health and Safety, First Aid, etc).
• Participate in the organisation and running of outings, events and visits, where appropriate.
• Ensure the safety of the pre‑school environment, monitoring safety of equipment and informing the Manager if equipment needs attention.
• Attend internal staff meetings at times deemed necessary and reasonable.

• Ensure that staff are properly deployed and offer appropriate stimulation and support to the children.
• Ensure that all new staff members receive a formal induction during the probationary period and probationary review within the stated timescale.
• In the absence of the Manager, carry out staff supervision.
• Through regular supervisions of staff and in the event of absence of the Preschool manager, identify individual and pre‑school development needs ensuring these needs are met through appropriate training.
• Manage the work of staff that are appointed for supply work or provide supervision for students on placement.

Internal – Children, Parents, All employed staff, Committee members.

External – Parents, Carers and Families, Ofsted, Head Teacher and Early Years staff from feeder Primary Schools, Staff from other agencies and settings, Hampshire County Council & Visitor.

The Pre‑school Deputy will be expected to pro‑actively build good working relationships at every level, committed to working in partnership with parents/carers to ensure effective communication of the pre‑school and the curriculum; to exchange information about children’s progress and encourage parent’s involvement.

At all times the Pre‑school Deputy will be expected to respect the confidentiality of sensitive information (subject to child protection policies and procedures).

• At least a level 3 qualification in Early Childhood Education or a related field is required.
• Proven experience in a managerial role within an educational setting is highly desirable.
• SEND qualifications and experience would be an advantage.
• Strong knowledge of early childhood development principles and practices.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to engage effectively with children, parents, and staff.
• Strong organisational skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team while also demonstrating leadership capabilities.
• A genuine passion for educating young children and fostering their growth in a supportive environment.
• Paediatric first aid certificate.
• Enhanced DBS checks.

If you are enthusiastic about making a difference in the lives of young learners and possess the necessary qualifications, we invite you to apply for this rewarding opportunity as our Deputy Preschool Manager.

If applying for this role, and you wish to arrange an informal visit to the Preschool to meet staff and see the setting prior to application or interview, this can be arranged. Please email the manager, on

• Company pension
• Free parking
• Health & wellbeing programme
• On‑site parking