Deputy Room Leader - Nature School (up to £14.20 21ys+)

Deputy Room Leader - Nature School (up to £14.20 21ys+)

Application Deadline: 31 May 2026

Department: Early Years Educator

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Muddy Boots Poppleton

Reporting To: Beth Lamb

Compensation: £13.80 - £14.20 / hour

Description

Deputy Room Leader

Nature School at Muddy Boots Nursery, Poppleton YO26 6QD

£13.80 – £14.20 per hour (age 21+)

Full-time (4-day week)

Due to an internal promotion within our Nature School, an exciting opportunity has become available for a Deputy Room Leader to work as part of the leadership team with our newly refurbished Nature School tipi.

At Muddy Boots Poppleton, we’re proud to be an award‑winning nursery, recognised for delivering exceptional early years education through meaningful outdoor learning.

We particularly welcome applications from experienced Level 3 Early Years Educators who are ready to grow and develop their career within our nursery group.

Real career development – many of our team members progress into Room Leader, Third in Charge and Deputy Manager roles as they grow with us.

Everything we do is guided by our core values — Heart, Excellence, Growth, Teamwork and Responsibility — and they shape how we care for children, support families and look after each other as a team.

Key Responsibilities

As a Deputy Room Leader, you’ll play a vital role in delivering high‑quality, nature‑based learning experiences that inspire curiosity, confidence and independence.

Your role will include:

• Planning and delivering engaging learning activities, with a strong focus on outdoor play and exploration
• Observing, assessing and supporting children’s individual learning journeys
• Acting as a key person and building strong, trusting relationships with families
• Creating a safe, stimulating and inclusive environment
• Working collaboratively as part of a positive, supportive team
• Be responsible for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children in their care

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

We’re looking for someone who:

• Holds a Level 3 Early Years qualification as a minimum
• Has experience in an early years setting
• Shares our values and commitment to high‑quality childcare
• Has a genuine passion for outdoor learning and child‑led play
• Is positive, proactive and enjoys working as part of a team

Experience in outdoor education is welcomed, but a willingness to learn and grow with us is just as important.

Benefits

We know that when staff feel valued and supported, they do their best work. That’s why we offer a benefits package designed to support your wellbeing, work–life balance and career:

• Top 10% pay locally, up to £14.20 per hour (21yrs+)
• 4‑day working week for full‑time staff – more time for you
• Clear progression opportunities — move through our pay bandings and apply internally for new roles as they arise
• Opportunities to progress within our growing group, including roles across our nurseries in York and Leeds
• Extra holiday days for long‑standing team members
• Enhanced maternity, paternity & adoption pay
• Free lunches, tea & snacks
• Lifestyle discounts on groceries, travel, entertainment & more Employee Assistance Programme – mental health support & coaching
• Staff treats, social events & celebrations
• Free uniform and on‑site parking

Equal Opportunities

Muddy Boots is an Equal Opportunities Employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.

Safeguarding

We are committed to Safeguarding and Promoting the welfare of children and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

DBS and References

This job is subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.

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