Third in Charge – Nursery – Lambeth

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced 3rd in Charge for an established, friendly nursery.

The Third in Charge (3IC) is a key leadership role within the nursery school, supporting the Nursery Manager and Deputy Manager in ensuring the smooth operation of the nursery. The 3IC plays an active role in maintaining a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment for children, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, and supporting the team in delivering high-quality childcare and education. This role involves stepping into management responsibilities in the absence of the Manager and Deputy Manager.

The 3IC will also lead and manage a designated room, ensuring high standards of care and education for children; overseeing the planning and implementation of activities, manage staff within the room, and maintain a safe, stimulating environment that supports each child’s development in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework.

If you are passionate about working with children and have the requisite skills and qualifications, we would love to hear from you.

• Support the Nursery Manager and Deputy Manager in the day-to-day running of the nursery.
• Take responsibility for leading the nursery team in the absence of the Manager and Deputy Manager
• Assist in onboarding, mentoring, and supervising team members to uphold high standards of childcare.
• Conduct team briefings and support staff with planning and delivering educational activities.
• Perform staff appraisals and participate in recruitment and selection processes.
• Act as a positive role model and provide leadership, guidance, and support to nursery staff.
• Ensure all staff members adhere to nursery policies and procedures.
• Address and resolve any immediate issues with parents, staff, or operations as needed.

• Plan and deliver a high-quality, age-appropriate curriculum that meets the developmental needs of the children.
• Ensure that the curriculum is effectively implemented, supporting children’s learning and development in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework.
• Observe, assess, and record each child's progress, and plan for their individual needs.
• Create a warm, welcoming, and stimulating environment where children feel secure and happy.
• Promote inclusive practices and ensure all children, including those with special educational needs, are supported.

• Ensure the safety and well-being of all children at all times.
• Conduct daily health and safety checks and risk assessments.
• Maintain cleanliness and hygiene standards within the room.
• Follow safeguarding procedures and report any concerns to the designated safeguarding lead.

• Build strong, positive relationships with parents and caregivers.
• Communicate regularly with parents about their child's progress and daily activities.
• Organize and participate in parent meetings and events.

• Maintain accurate records of children’s development, attendance, and any incidents.
• Ensure all documentation is up-to-date and complies with regulatory requirements.
• Manage room resources and equipment, ensuring they are well-maintained and used effectively.
• Support with administrative duties, including staff schedules, attendance tracking, and resource management.
• Monitor and maintain nursery supplies, equipment, and resources to ensure smooth operations.
• Assist in inspections and audits, preparing necessary documentation and ensuring compliance with Ofsted and other regulatory bodies.

• Assist in ensuring all nursery policies, procedures, and practices are adhered to, including safeguarding and health & safety regulations.
• Respond promptly and appropriately to any safeguarding concerns, following designated procedures.
• Conduct risk assessments and ensure the nursery environment remains safe and secure at all times.
• Maintain accurate records of children’s development, attendance, and incident reports.

• At least 2 years experience in a leadership or supervisory role in a Pre-school/Nursery Setting with 0-5 year olds.
• Previous experience with Ofsted inspections and compliance (desirable).
• Strong understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework and safeguarding requirements.
• Leadership abilities with a proactive and professional approach.
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Patience, empathy, and a genuine passion for working with children.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Creativity in planning engaging and educational activities.

• At least 2 years experience in a leadership or supervisory role in a Pre-school/Nursery Setting with 0-5 year olds.
• Previous experience with Ofsted inspections and compliance (desirable).
• Strong understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework and safeguarding requirements.
• Leadership abilities with a proactive and professional approach.
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Patience, empathy, and a genuine passion for working with children.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Creativity in planning engaging and educational activities.

• Current Paediatric First Aid certification.
• Current Safeguarding certification.
• Current COSHH certification.
• Current Food and Hygiene certification.

• Commitment to continuous professional development.
• Physically able to carry out the requirements of the role.
• Flexibility to work various shifts as needed.
• Enhanced DBS on the update service (or willingness to apply for one)*.