Deputy Manager

We are looking for an experienced, enthusiastic and professional Deputy Manager to support the Manager in the effective day-to-day running of Rhos Methodist Playgroup. The successful candidate will have a strong knowledge of early years practice and be committed to maintaining high standards of care, education, safeguarding and professional practice. The Deputy Manager will be expected to lead by example, support other members of staff and deputise for the Manager when required.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the Manager with the safe, effective and professional running of the setting.
• Deputise for the Manager when required.
• Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the National Minimum Standards for Regulated Childcare in Wales and work within the requirements and expectations of Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW).
• Have a good understanding of Estyn expectations and contribute towards maintaining and improving the quality of the setting.
• Have extensive knowledge and experience of planning, observations and assessments within an early years environment.
• Ensure planning is purposeful, professional, child-centred and linked appropriately to children's learning and development.
• Ensure observations are factual, meaningful and used effectively to identify children's progress and next steps.
• Have a strong understanding of the Curriculum for Wales and Early Years Pathways.
• Support staff in maintaining high-quality planning, observations and documentation.
• Ensure all required paperwork and records are completed accurately and within agreed timescales.
• Support the implementation and monitoring of playgroup policies and procedures.
• Maintain high standards of safeguarding and immediately report any safeguarding or welfare concerns in accordance with setting procedures.
• Support inclusive practice and the needs of children with Additional Learning Needs (ALN).
• Work professionally with parents/carers and relevant outside professionals.
• Support and guide other members of the staff team.
• Communicate effectively and professionally with the Manager and colleagues.
• Respond to management requests, emails and other work-related communication within appropriate timescales.
• Maintain confidentiality at all times.
• Promote positive behaviour and children's wellbeing.
• Assist with maintaining a safe, stimulating and welcoming learning environment.
• Take responsibility for designated key children and associated documentation where required.

Training and Professional Development - The successful candidate must be committed to their own continuing professional development and be willing to undertake all training required for the role and the needs of the setting. This may include safeguarding, first aid, food hygiene, ALN, curriculum development, Welsh language development and any other mandatory or recommended training.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Hold an appropriate Level 3 childcare/early years qualification or above suitable for the role.
• Have relevant experience of working within an early years setting.
• Have experience of taking responsibility and supporting or leading other members of staff.
• Demonstrate strong knowledge of planning, observations and assessment.
• Have a good working knowledge of safeguarding responsibilities.
• Understand the importance of regulatory compliance and professional accountability.
• Be confident using appropriate IT systems for planning, communication and record keeping.

Personal Qualities - We are looking for someone who is:

• Reliable
• Professional
• Organised
• Approachable
• Motivated
• Flexible
• Supportive
• Child-centred
• A strong communicator
• Able to use initiative
• Willing to learn
• The successful candidate must be able to work as part of a close team while also having the confidence to take responsibility and make appropriate decisions when deputising for the Manager.

Safeguarding - Rhos Methodist Playgroup is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful applicant will be subject to appropriate safer recruitment procedures, including satisfactory references, identity and qualification checks and an appropriate Enhanced DBS check before appointment. If you are passionate about early years education, have strong leadership skills and want to help us continue providing a high-quality environment for our children, we would love to hear from you.

8.30-11.30am

Email application form to rhosplaygroup@gmail.com(link sends e-mail)