Senior Early Years Leader - Maternity Cover

We are seeking an exceptional Deputy Head (Maternity Cover) to join our Senior Leadership Team during an exciting period of continued development at Clowns Nursery. This is a high-responsibility leadership role for an experienced senior leader who is confident operating at whole-setting level within a high-performing Early Years environment.

We welcome applications from experienced senior leaders in Early Years or primary education, including current Heads, Deputy Heads, and Assistant Heads, with the confidence and experience to contribute strategically within a well-established Nursery setting.

The role will appeal to candidates seeking a defined maternity cover opportunity within a stable, ambitious, and highly regarded Nursery environment.

The Role

The Deputy Head works closely with the Head to ensure consistently high standards across safeguarding, EYFS provision, teaching and learning, SEND, staff development, and inspection readiness.

This is a full senior leadership role with responsibility for both strategic leadership and day-to-day operational oversight of the Nursery when required. The postholder will act as Lead Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) alongside the Head and hold statutory responsibility for SEND provision as Nursery SENDCo.

The role includes a reduced teaching commitment within the Rising 4s class (approximately 40%).

We are looking for a leader who:

• Has significant senior leadership experience within Early Years or primary education
• Demonstrates strong expertise in EYFS teaching, curriculum leadership, and assessment practice
• Has secure knowledge of safeguarding leadership and statutory compliance
• Has strong understanding of SEND provision and inclusive practice
• Leads staff with clarity, professionalism, and high expectations
• Builds strong professional relationships with staff, parents, and external agencies
• Demonstrates integrity, resilience, sound judgement, and consistency within a senior leadership role e, and consistency in a senior leadership role

Safeguarding

Clowns Nursery is relentlessly committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

The successful candidate will act as Lead DSL alongside the Head and must demonstrate a secure and up-to-date knowledge of Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE 2025) and Working Together to Safeguard Children.

All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks and satisfactory references.