At a Glance
- Tasks: Plan and organise engaging play sessions for children's learning and development.
- Company: Castlebay Nursery, a nurturing environment for young children.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, Distant Islands Allowance, and a supportive team.
- Other info: Fixed-term maternity cover with opportunities to connect with a passionate team.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while enjoying a fulfilling career.
- Qualifications: Qualified childcare experience and a relevant qualification for early years.
The predicted salary is between 26440 - 28896 £ per year.
30 hours per week, all year, Maternity Cover
£26,440 - £28,896 per annum, inclusive of £2,430 Distant Islands Allowance per Annum
You will plan a curriculum which supports and guides children's all-round learning and development, and plan and organise the play session taking into account the needs of every child.
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.
This post is subject to membership of the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme as a legal requirement of a regulated role with Children.
The salary quoted is inclusive of Distant Islands Allowance. Appointment to the post will be on the first point of the grade. This position is for the duration of a maternity leave.
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
Nursery Key Worker, English Medium, Qualified, Castlebay Nursery (3664) - FIXED TERM - CNS06239 in Kirkwall employer: Comhairle nan Eilean Siar
At Castlebay Nursery, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values the growth and development of our staff. Our supportive work culture fosters collaboration and creativity, allowing you to make a meaningful impact on children's lives while enjoying competitive benefits, including a Distant Islands Allowance. Located in a picturesque setting, we offer unique opportunities for professional development and a chance to be part of a dedicated team committed to nurturing young minds.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Nursery Key Worker, English Medium, Qualified, Castlebay Nursery (3664) - FIXED TERM - CNS06239 in Kirkwall
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the nursery! Before your interview, take some time to research Castlebay Nursery. Familiarise yourself with their values and approach to early years education. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to childcare and your experience. Think about specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your skills in planning and organising play sessions. We want you to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Dress the part! When attending the interview, wear something professional yet comfortable. You want to make a great first impression while also feeling at ease. Remember, you'll be working with children, so showing your approachable side is key!
✨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 reinforces your interest in the position. Plus, it keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Nursery Key Worker, English Medium, Qualified, Castlebay Nursery (3664) - FIXED TERM - CNS06239 in Kirkwall
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start writing, make sure to read the job description and person specification thoroughly. This will help us understand what we're looking for and ensure you tailor your application to highlight how you meet each essential criterion.
Showcase Your Experience:In your experience statement, be specific about your proven childcare experience. We want to see how you've worked with young children and their families in an early years setting, so don’t hold back on those details!
Be Personal and Authentic:Let your personality shine through in your application. We love seeing genuine passion for working with children, so share your motivations and what makes you a great fit for our team at Castlebay Nursery.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Comhairle nan Eilean Siar
✨Know Your Curriculum
Make sure you’re familiar with the curriculum you’ll be working with. Be ready to discuss how you would plan and organise play sessions that cater to the needs of every child. This shows your understanding of child development and your ability to create engaging learning experiences.
✨Highlight Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past childcare experience that demonstrate your skills in working with young children and their families. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, making it easy for the interviewers to see your impact.
✨Understand the PVG Scheme
Since this role requires membership in the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme, brush up on what this entails. Be prepared to discuss your commitment to safeguarding children and how you ensure a safe environment for them.
✨Engage with the Team
Interviews at Castlebay Nursery are in person, so take this opportunity to engage with the team. Ask questions about their approach to childcare and how they support each other. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.
