At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to deliver high-quality early years education and support for children and families.
- Company: St. Gabriel's RC Primary School, committed to nurturing young minds.
- Benefits: Competitive hourly rate, term-time work, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and professional development in a vibrant community.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your skills in early education.
- Qualifications: HNC in Early Education and Childcare or equivalent qualifications required.
The predicted salary is between 32000 - 37000 £ per year.
The salary advertised is full time (35 hours per week, 52 weeks per year). Part-time hours / sessional posts will be pro-rated accordingly.
Hourly rate of pay: £18.34 - £19.86. This is a 39-week sessional post i.e. working hours will be during school term time plus in-service days.
Days and Hours of Work: Monday - Thursday, 08:15-15:15; Friday, 08:15-12:45. To start 10th August 2026.
We are looking for two Early Years Practitioners to join our team at St Gabriel's Nursery to help us continue to deliver high quality child centred service which meets the needs of children and their families.
Please note that you will be based at St. Gabriel's initially, however you will be required to help cover at other settings within the cluster.
Interviews will take place on the 18th June 2026.
To work as an effective member of an early years team delivering a high quality child centred service which meets the needs of children and their families.
Please download the Job Outline/Person Specification (available under 'Job Attachments') for the full range of tasks and duties associated with this job. You will need to refer to these in order to complete the application form. You must ensure you meet every 'essential' criteria stated on the Person Specification to be considered for interview.
The ‘East Lothian Way’– values and behaviours we expect our employees to demonstrate in their everyday work. Should you be invited to interview, you may be asked questions based on these behaviours. Please refer to the document via the link to familiarise yourself with them.
Job Requirements
- Relevant Qualifications: You must be educated to HNC level in Early Education and Childcare or hold SNNB/HNC/SVQ3 qualifications in Childcare/Education or equivalent and be able to evidence additional learning and knowledge of current practice and legislation in relation to Early Learning and Childcare.
- Driving licence is desirable.
- SSSC Registration: SSSC registration is an essential requirement of this role. If you are appointed and are not already a member of the relevant section of the SSSC Register, you will be required to apply for registration within 3 months of your start date to ensure that you are registered within the required 6 months.
- PVG Membership: This post is considered as a Regulated Role with vulnerable children and/or protected adults, as specified in the Disclosure (Scotland) Act 2020. All preferred candidates for posts carrying out regulated work with these groups will be required to become a PVG Scheme member, or undergo a PVG Scheme update if they are already a member, prior to any formal offer of employment being made by East Lothian Council.
- Please note: PVG member’s records are constantly updated with any new vetting information that arises. Any information that is disclosed on a PVG membership or update check, if relevant to the post being applied for, will be discussed with the applicant and investigated prior to any formal offer being made.
- Please note: If you have spent more than 3 months working or living out with the UK in the last 5 years then you will be required to present a copy of an overseas criminal record check. Details of how to apply and contact details can be found on the GOV.UK website.
Additional Information
For additional East Lothian Council employment information please click on the following link: www.eastlothian.gov.uk/nonteachinginfo.
If you have any difficulties creating an account on MyJobScotland or applying for this post please contact the MyJobScotland support team via this link https://www.myjobscotland.gov.uk/contact-us.
If you require further information about this vacancy, please call 01620 827868, or email us on recruitment@eastlothian.gov.uk.
Please note: We do not accept CV's (either electronically or by mail). All our vacancies must be applied for by fully completing the on-line application form. Although there is an ‘import data from my CV’ function on MyJobScotland, this only imports very limited data and should not be relied upon to complete the application form. If, for example, due to a disability, you are unable to complete the on-line application form you can contact us for a paper application via the telephone number or email address above.
Early Years Practitioner - 2 Positions Available - St. Gabriel's RC Primary School - EAL12674 employer: East Lothian Council
St. Gabriel's RC Primary School is an exceptional employer that prioritises the professional development and well-being of its staff, offering a supportive work culture that values collaboration and innovation in early years education. With opportunities for growth within the East Lothian Council framework, employees can expect to engage in meaningful work that positively impacts the lives of children and their families, all while enjoying a balanced schedule during term time.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Practitioner - 2 Positions Available - St. Gabriel's RC Primary School - EAL12674
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school and its values! Before your interview, check out St. Gabriel's website and social media. Understanding their ethos will help you connect your experience with what they’re looking for.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Grab a friend or family member and do a mock interview. Focus on those 'East Lothian Way' behaviours they mentioned. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your passion for early years education! Think of specific examples from your past experiences that highlight your skills and dedication. This is your chance to shine and show why you’re the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a quick thank-you email. It shows your enthusiasm and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s just good manners!
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Practitioner - 2 Positions Available - St. Gabriel's RC Primary School - EAL12674
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start your application, make sure to read through the job description and person specification thoroughly. This will help us understand what we're looking for and ensure you highlight the right skills and experiences in your application.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! We want to see how your experience aligns with the role of Early Years Practitioner. Use specific examples from your past work that demonstrate your ability to meet the essential criteria outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Passion:We love candidates who are passionate about early years education! Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with children and how you can contribute to our child-centred service. A little personality goes a long way!
Apply Through Our Website:Remember, we only accept applications through our website, so make sure to complete the online application form. It’s straightforward, and we promise it’ll be worth it when you get to join our fantastic team!
How to prepare for a job interview at East Lothian Council
✨Know the Job Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly read the job description and person specification. Understand the essential criteria and be ready to discuss how your qualifications and experiences align with what they’re looking for.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the 'East Lothian Way'
Since the interview may include questions about the values and behaviours expected from employees, take some time to review the 'East Lothian Way'. Think of examples from your past experiences that demonstrate these values in action.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
As an Early Years Practitioner, you might be asked to handle specific scenarios related to child care. Prepare by thinking through common situations you might face and how you would respond, showcasing your problem-solving skills and child-centred approach.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! This shows your interest in the role and helps you determine if the school is the right fit for you. Consider asking about team dynamics or professional development opportunities.
