At a Glance
- Tasks: Plan and organise play sessions to support children's learning and development.
- Company: Castlebay Nursery, a nurturing environment for young children.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, term-time hours, and a supportive team.
- Other info: Join a passionate team and enjoy excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in childcare and relevant qualifications required.
The predicted salary is between 23819 - 25736 € per year.
28 hours per week, term time, Permanent position £23,819 - £25,736 per annum, inclusive of £1,960 Distant Islands Allowance per annum.
The post holder will plan a curriculum which supports and guides children’s all-round learning and development. You will plan and organise the play session taking into account the needs of every child. You will provide cover for the Manager as and when required.
Duties will include:
- Organising with the Manager and Nursery Key Workers, daily, weekly and termly play schedules taking into account each child’s developmental stage.
- Making observations, assessments and keeping records of children and play activities to ensure children’s learning and development needs are met.
- Maintaining and updating an accurate attendance register and records of children’s personal details.
- Overseeing the safe collection of children at the end of the day by an authorised adult.
It is essential you have knowledge and understanding of the Curriculum for Excellence, Pre-birth to Three, Building the Ambition, How Good is Our Early Learning & Childcare and the National Care Standards. You must have proven childcare experience working with young children and their families in an early years setting and a qualification that meets the Scottish Social Services Council’s requirements for Practitioners. You must have the ability to plan and implement a curriculum through short, medium and long term planning.
This post is subject to membership of the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme as a legal requirement of a regulated role with Children.
Salary for the above post is inclusive of Distant Islands Allowance.
It is vital you read the job description and person specification; in your Experience statement please detail how you meet each of the essential criteria we ask for in the person specification.
Interviews will be conducted in person, providing candidates with the chance to personally meet the team and experience our work environment.
Closing Date: Monday 1 June 2026
Play Leader, English, Castlebay Nursery (3662) - CNS06237 in Barra employer: Comhairle nan Eilean Siar
Castlebay Nursery is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of both its staff and the children in its care. With a supportive work culture, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional development, employees can thrive in a nurturing environment that values their contributions. Located in the picturesque setting of the Distant Islands, the nursery offers unique advantages such as a close-knit community and the chance to make a meaningful impact on young lives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Play Leader, English, Castlebay Nursery (3662) - CNS06237 in Barra
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team! Before your interview, check out Castlebay Nursery's website and social media. Familiarise yourself with their values and recent activities. This will help you connect during the interview and show that you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare some questions! Think about what you want to know about the role and the nursery. Asking insightful questions not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you figure out if it's the right fit for you.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your experience! During the interview, share specific examples of how you've planned and implemented play sessions or supported children's development. Use the job description as a guide to highlight relevant experiences.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after the interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your appreciation for the opportunity and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Play Leader, English, Castlebay Nursery (3662) - CNS06237 in Barra
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start writing, give the job description a good read. It’s packed with info on what we’re looking for, so make sure you understand the key responsibilities and requirements.
Tailor Your Experience Statement:When you write your experience statement, be specific! Highlight how your skills and experiences match the essential criteria we’ve outlined. This is your chance to shine, so don’t hold back!
Keep it Clear and Concise:We love a well-structured application. Use clear headings and bullet points where necessary to make it easy for us to read. Remember, less is often more!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Comhairle nan Eilean Siar
✨Know Your Curriculum
Make sure you’re well-versed in the Curriculum for Excellence and other relevant frameworks. Brush up on how they apply to early years education, as this will show your understanding of the role and your commitment to children's development.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past childcare experience that demonstrate your ability to plan and implement a curriculum. Be ready to discuss how you've met the developmental needs of children in your care, as this will highlight your practical skills.
✨Engage with the Team
During the interview, don’t just focus on answering questions; engage with the interviewers. Ask them about their approach to play sessions and how they support children's learning. This shows your interest in their methods and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
✨Be Ready for Practical Scenarios
Expect to be asked about how you would handle specific situations in the nursery. Think through potential scenarios involving child safety, behaviour management, or planning activities, and be prepared to share your thought process and solutions.
