Early Learning & Childcare Practitioner
Early Learning & Childcare Practitioner

Early Learning & Childcare Practitioner

Kilmarnock Full-Time 26300 - 28700 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
East Ayrshire Council

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support children aged 0-8 in a fun, engaging learning environment.
  • Company: Join East Ayrshire Council, dedicated to quality early education and community support.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, diverse workplace, and opportunities for personal growth.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on young lives while working in a supportive team culture.
  • Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just a passion for working with children!
  • Other info: Full-time temporary role with flexible shifts and a commitment to inclusivity.

The predicted salary is between 26300 - 28700 £ per year.

Job Description

Contribute as part of a team to the provision of a quality early learning and childcare service for children aged 0-8 years and their families and work to the principles of the national care standards for early education and childcare and abide by the Code of Practice for Social Service Workers.

Requirements

The duties of the post involve Regulated Work with children and/or protected adults, as specified in the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007. Successful applicants for such posts will be required to become a Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme member in respect of Regulated Work with either or both of these groups as appropriate, or if they are already a Scheme member, be subject to a PVG Scheme Record Update, before any formal offer of employment can be made by East Ayrshire Council. Please note: PVG members\’ records are constantly updated with any new vetting information that arises. Any information that is disclosed on a PVG Scheme Record or Scheme Record Update, if relevant to the post being applied for, will be discussed with the applicant prior to any formal offer of employment being made.

Responsibilities

We follow the national guidance in relation to pre‑employment checks namely \”Safer Recruitment Through Better Recruitment\”. With regards to requests for references and in line with this guidance, during your application process you should provide details of a minimum of two appropriate and relevant references, one of which should be from your current or most recent employer. It is also a requirement that the reference from your current or most recent employer is from an appropriate senior manager and it is not a reference from a former peer operating at the same level.

The Individual

This is a temporary part time term time post based at Riccarton Early Childhood Centre, Kilmarnock. The post is temporary until 24 October 2026. The hours of work will be 17.5 hours per week, to be worked alternate Wednesday\’s and every Thursday & Friday at the direction of the Line Manager. The full time salary for this post is between £31,377 – £33,579 per annum. The actual part time term time salary is between £13,455 – £14,400 per annum. If you require further information please contact Gillian Johnston at.

East Ayrshire Council is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce and welcomes applications from all members of the community. We encourage applicants from underrepresented groups including Black and Minority Ethnic people, disabled people and LGBT people. We are also keen to decrease occupational segregation and so encourage women to apply for managerial posts and/or roles in which they are underrepresented. East Ayrshire Council is a Disability Confident employer and a Recruit with Conviction Ambassador.

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Early Learning & Childcare Practitioner employer: East Ayrshire Council

East Ayrshire Council is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment for its staff. With a strong commitment to employee development, the council offers numerous growth opportunities and encourages diversity within its workforce. Located in Kilmarnock, the role of Early Learning & Childcare Practitioner allows you to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and their families while enjoying a collaborative team culture.
East Ayrshire Council

Contact Detail:

East Ayrshire Council Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Early Learning & Childcare Practitioner

Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the national care standards for early education and childcare. Understanding these principles will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to providing quality care.

Tip Number 2

Network with current or former employees of East Ayrshire Council. They can provide valuable insights into the work culture and expectations, which can give you an edge during the selection process.

Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your experience with children aged 0-8 years in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've contributed to their learning and development in previous roles.

Tip Number 4

Make sure you understand the PVG Scheme requirements. Being knowledgeable about this process shows that you take child safety seriously and are prepared to meet the necessary legal obligations.

We think you need these skills to ace Early Learning & Childcare Practitioner

Child Development Knowledge
Communication Skills
Teamwork
Empathy and Compassion
Behaviour Management
Creativity in Learning Activities
Understanding of National Care Standards
First Aid Certification
Safeguarding Awareness
Adaptability
Observation and Assessment Skills
Planning and Organisation
Conflict Resolution
Patience and Resilience

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Early Learning & Childcare Practitioner role. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the expectations outlined by East Ayrshire Council.

Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous experience working with children aged 0-8 years. Include specific examples of how you contributed to a quality early learning environment and adhered to national care standards.

Prepare References: Gather at least two appropriate references, ensuring one is from your current or most recent employer. Make sure these references are from senior managers rather than peers, as specified in the job requirements.

Follow Application Instructions: Ensure you follow all application instructions carefully, including adding the provided email address to your safe sender list. This will help ensure you receive any important communications regarding your application.

How to prepare for a job interview at East Ayrshire Council

Understand the Role

Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the responsibilities of an Early Learning & Childcare Practitioner. Be prepared to discuss how your skills and experiences align with the requirements, especially regarding working with children aged 0-8 years.

Showcase Your Passion

During the interview, express your enthusiasm for early childhood education. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that highlight your commitment to nurturing and educating young children, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.

Prepare for Scenario Questions

Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle various situations in a childcare setting. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully managed challenges or supported children's development.

Know the National Care Standards

Familiarise yourself with the national care standards for early education and childcare. Being able to reference these standards during your interview will demonstrate your knowledge of best practices and your commitment to providing quality care.

Early Learning & Childcare Practitioner
East Ayrshire Council
Location: Kilmarnock

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