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- Tasks: Lead outdoor learning experiences and manage early years childcare services.
- Company: Join Woodlands Early Learning and Childcare Centre, a champion of nature-based education.
- Benefits: Enjoy a full-time, term-time role with a supportive team and a focus on outdoor adventures.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives while embracing the beauty of nature every day.
- Qualifications: HNC in Childcare and Education required; experience with children aged 0-5 is essential.
- Other info: This is a temporary position until October 2025, with salary adjusted for term-time work.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
A vacancy has arisen for a dedicated and enthusiastic Senior Early Years Officer at Woodlands Early Learning and Childcare Centre to cover a maternity leave
At Woodlands ELC Centre we are huge advocates for outdoor learning. We are very fortunate to have Callendar Woods right on our doorstep where children will have continuous access to experiences such as climbing, den building, embracing risk, having campfires to cook snacks/lunches and experiencing all that nature has to offer.
We encourage children to explore risk and embrace it as children thrive on the challenge but it also enables children to prepare for risks in the future and know how to deal with them. We have used our own professional judgement to weigh up the benefits and risks and have put control measures in place to reduce the risks to an acceptable level without substantially removing the benefits of the opportunity to children’s learning.
The nursery class operates Monday to Friday from 9.00 a.m. to 3.00 p.m. during term time.
The successful candidate will assist in the management and provision of early learning and childcare service within the school. You should have sound knowledge of current early learning and childcare provision and procedures with extensive experience of working with children from birth to 5 years.
You will hold an HNC in Childcare and Education, an SNNB Certificate or equivalent qualification. You should hold a qualification to allow registration with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC). Experience or knowledge of outdoor learning/forest nursery approach would be advantageous.
This is a term-time post, full time (37 hours) and temporary until 10th October 2025 (approximate date). Please note salary will be adjusted for term time working.
If you are the successful candidate, you will be required to gain/maintain PVG scheme membership.
Senior Early Years Officer employer: Woodlands Early Learning
Contact Detail:
Woodlands Early Learning Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Early Years Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the principles of outdoor learning and the forest nursery approach. Highlight any relevant experiences you have had in these areas during your interactions with us.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your understanding of risk management in early years settings. Be prepared to discuss how you have successfully balanced risk and benefit in your previous roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Connect with current or former staff members at Woodlands ELC Centre if possible. They can provide insights into the culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your commitment to continuous professional development. Mention any recent training or workshops related to early years education that you have attended, especially those focused on outdoor learning.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Early Years Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Senior Early Years Officer position. Understand the key responsibilities, qualifications required, and the emphasis on outdoor learning and risk management.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, emphasize your experience working with children aged birth to 5 years. Include specific examples of how you've implemented outdoor learning or managed risks in a childcare setting.
Showcase Qualifications: Clearly list your qualifications, such as your HNC in Childcare and Education and any relevant certifications. Mention your eligibility for registration with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) to demonstrate your compliance with industry standards.
Express Passion for Outdoor Learning: Convey your enthusiasm for outdoor learning in your cover letter. Discuss how you believe it benefits children's development and share any personal experiences that align with this philosophy.
How to prepare for a job interview at Woodlands Early Learning
✨Show Your Passion for Outdoor Learning
Since Woodlands ELC Centre emphasizes outdoor learning, be sure to express your enthusiasm for this approach. Share any personal experiences or strategies you've used to engage children in nature-based activities.
✨Demonstrate Knowledge of Child Development
Highlight your understanding of early childhood development, especially for children aged birth to 5 years. Be prepared to discuss how you can apply this knowledge in a practical setting, particularly in relation to risk-taking and exploration.
✨Discuss Your Qualifications and Experience
Make sure to clearly outline your qualifications, such as your HNC in Childcare and Education, and any relevant certifications. Provide examples of your extensive experience working with young children, focusing on how it aligns with the role.
✨Prepare for Questions on Risk Management
Given the focus on embracing risk in children's learning, be ready to discuss how you assess and manage risks in outdoor settings. Share specific examples of how you've balanced risk and benefit in your previous roles.
