Senior Early Years Practitioner

Overview

To direct an early years team in delivering a flexible, high quality and inclusive early learning and childcare service which meets the needs of young children and their families. Working collaboratively with parents, carers and other partners to promote the welfare and development of every child.

• To direct and support the planning and implementation of a curriculum programme which meets the needs of the individual child in accordance with national and local standards.
• To direct and participate in the observation and interaction of children in order to support their learning and record and report on the individual child’s progress in accordance with Council policy and procedures.
• To direct and participate in the delivery of an effective early years service.
• To direct and participate in all aspects of team work within the unit.
• Keep abreast of early year’s local and national developments.
• To direct and participate as appropriate in all aspects of care which meet the needs of the individual child in accordance with the Council’s duty of care.
• To undertake appropriate supervisory responsibilities and deputise in the absence of the Nursery Manager.

Experience of working with pre-school children aged between 3 and 5 years old.

• Relevant curriculum frameworks for children aged 3 to 5 and birth - 3 years.
• National Standards for Early Learning & Childcare.

CACHE (NNEB) / SCCEB (SNNB), HNC Childhood Practice or equivalent

Or

SVQ Level 3 Social Services (Children and Young People) or equivalent

SSSC Registered (if you are not appropriately registered with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) prior to taking up post you must, apply for registration within 3 months and, be fully registered within 6 months)

• Effective organisational skills.
• Self confidence.
• Ability to motivate and lead a small team.
• Ability to prioritise.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to present written information e.g. reports, in a clear, consistent form.
• Appreciation, acceptance of and commitment to the importance of confidentiality.
• Ability to listen to others.
• Ability to encourage other team members to contribute to the work of the group e.g. in planning.
• Ability to work on own initiative.
• Ability to remain calm.
• Ability to be actively involved with the children in all aspects of their pre-school experience e.g. play ring games.
• Ability to work flexibly to meet the needs and demands of the service.

Temporary Post until 29 January 2027 (Maternity Cover)

Closing Date: 6 February 2026

Starting Salary: £34,778 (pro rata)

£18.45 per hour

21.75 hours per week (term time)

For further information, contact Joy Smith -