Job description
Deputy Manager - Preschool
Leighfield Primary School
Salary: Grade 7 Pay Point 11-14
Hours: 40 Hours per week, 52 Weeks per year
Contract Type: Permanent
Working Pattern:Monday to Friday, between the hours of 07:30am to 18:00pm with breaks
Be part of something new. Shape something special.
Are you an ambitious Early Years professional ready to take the next step in your career?
We are seeking an exceptional Deputy Manager to join our brand-new preschool provision. A unique opportunity to help establish a nurturing, high quality environment from the very beginning. Working alongside the Preschool Manager, you will play a key role in shaping the culture, routines, and learning experiences that will have a lasting impact on children and families.
This is more than just a job; it’s a chance to build something special, develop your leadership skills, and progress your career within a supportive and forward-thinking organisation.
Why this role is different
- Be part of a new preschool provision from day one.
- Help shape the vision, environment and daily practice.
- Work in a setting where your ideas and expertise will be valued.
- Access excellent professional development and career progression opportunities.
- Join a collaborative team committed to delivering outstanding early years education.
About the Role
As Deputy Manager, you will support the day-to-day leadership and operation of the preschool, ensuring children receive the highest quality care and learning opportunities. You will lead by example, inspire colleagues, build positive relationships with families, and help create a warm, inclusive environment where every child can thrive
Why Choose Leighfield Primary School?
Leighfield is a small primary school that is rated Good by Ofsted. Being a small school means we know all our children. It means we have a better idea of what motivates them and what success should look like for them. We believe that our school allows every child to succeed.
At Leighfield, we have a holistic approach which ensures there is a nurturing and caring ethos where children are encouraged to reach their full potential. Our school values are Resilience, Pride and Respect and we are passionate about providing our children with the very best opportunities and experiences.
Our Achievements to date
- Rated Ofsted ‘Good’ February 2024
- Microsoft Showcase School
“Pupils’ behaviour is exemplary. They show high levels of engagement and interest during lessons. Pupils listen intently and show an eagerness to share their ideas, thoughts and opinions.” - OFSTED
Key Responsibilities
- Understand, effectively apply, and support the Pre-School Manager with implementing the Trust policies and procedures related to the post especially those that relate to safeguarding and child protection.
- Ensure compliance under the Children’s Act.
- Assist the Pre-School Manager with implementing a multi-cultural play curriculum to stimulate children’s interest in learning.
What We’re Looking For
Qualifications:
- Minimum NVQ level 3 in Children’s Care, Learning and Development, or relevant degree.
- Level 2 qualifications in maths/numeracy and English/literacy
Experience:
- Minimum of 2 years experience of working with under fives in a formal setting, working within the Nursery Education and meeting the requirements relating to Ofsted.
- Experience of leading activities with individuals, groups and whole classes to support children’s development
- Ability to write reports
- Ability to lead a team of adults
Skills & Knowledge:
- Knowledge of and the ability to apply child protection and health and safety procedure
- Knowledge of current legislation affecting care and education of under fives
- Knowledge of planning an appropriate curriculum to promote the desirable outcomes/ Early Learning Goals
- Knowledge and understanding of children’s development 0-5years.
Please refer to the Job Description and Person Specification to support your application.
Why Join Us?
Professional Growth & Support
- Ongoing professional development opportunities.
- Access to learning networks and visits to other organisations.
- Supportive leadership and a highly committed team.
- Highly committed and motivated Team
- A role which has the opportunity to make a real difference whilst having fun
- A established Central Services Team who support schools and wider colleagues
Work-Life & Wellbeing Benefits
- Flexible working options.
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).
- Defined benefit pension scheme.
- Be an integral member of the team in a vibrant school.
- Create an outstanding learning environment for the success of all of our children.
- Play a significant part in continuing to develop our school.
- Be part of a wider community of Discovery Schools Trust.
Additional Perks
- Free parking.
- Cycle-to-work scheme.
- Gym discounts.
- Eyecare vouchers.
- Dental support.
- Retail discounts.
- Annual incremental pay increases within the pay scale.
Equal Opportunities & Accessibility
We welcome enquiries from everyone and value diversity in our workforce.
Applications are welcome from all sections of the community regardless of gender identity, ethnic origin, disability, age or sexual orientation. If you require assistance completing your application, please contact hrsupport@discoverytrust.org for support.
Depending on your role, occasional travel between Discovery locations may be required. A valid driving license and appropriate business insurance are necessary, and you will need to provide evidence of these documents
More about Discovery Schools Trust
Discovery Schools Trust is dedicated to improving learning and teaching by creating a culture that promotes excellence. The needs of all children are placed at the heart of all decision making regardless of the school they attend. Teaching and learning excellence are shared through learning networks, sharing of ideas and materials as well as leading practitioners between schools. Discovery has developed a school improvement system which focuses on improving outcomes for all children. It also places staff development, talent management and succession planning at the heart of achieving outstanding organisations.
Please note that interviews for this position may be made earlier than the stated closing date if a suitable candidate is identified. Therefore, we encourage interested applicants to submit their applications promptly. Early submission will not only ensure consideration for the position but also increase the likelihood of being invited for an interview. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to receiving your application.
Safeguarding Statement
We are committed to safeguarding our pupils; therefore, the successful applicant will require an Enhanced Disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and references.
AI
While we acknowledge the advantages of AI in crafting personal statements for applications, we strongly encourage and expect applicants to personalise and tailor responses. Please note that the Trust may utilise AI checking solutions during the application review process and will be considered when shortlisting.
Apply Now!
If you are ready to make a difference in children's lives, apply today!
Applications are handled on Teaching Vacancies (GOV.UK).
About this school
Leighfield Primary School
Academy converter · Primary · Ages 4–11
- Pupils
- 182
- Avg teacher salary
- £47,240
- Pupil:teacher ratio
- 21.2:1
- Academy trust
- DISCOVERY SCHOOLS ACADEMIES TRUST LTD
Average (mean) teacher salary · DfE School Workforce Census 2024/25
View full school profileOfsted rating key
Not rated= no current Ofsted judgement — typically a new school, a recently-converted academy not yet inspected, or a school type Ofsted doesn’t grade.
Location
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Oakham, Rutland, LE15 9TS
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- Salary
- £29,007.00 - £30,428.00 Annually (Actual)
- Contract
- Permanent
- Working pattern
- Full time
- Posted
- 22 June 2026
- Closing date
- 6 July 2026
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