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- Tasks: Support children's development and create a nurturing environment at Mount Esk Nursery School.
- Company: Join Midlothian Council, dedicated to transforming services for children and families.
- Benefits: Permanent position with competitive salary and 36 hours per week.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young lives while growing your career in early years education.
- Qualifications: Must hold a relevant qualification in childhood practice and an up-to-date first aid certificate.
- Other info: Guaranteed interview for eligible candidates; join a supportive team focused on positive change.
The predicted salary is between 27117 - 27117 £ per year.
Post holder must hold at least a practitioner level qualification, HNC Childhood Practice at SCQF Level 7; or SVQ Social Services (Children & Young people) at SCQF 7 or equivalents that meet the requirements for SSSC (Scottish Social Services Council) registration e.g. SVQ 3 Child Care and Education, SVQ 3 Early Years Care and Education, SVQ Children’s Care learning and Development SCQF 7, HNC Childcare and Education, HNC Working with Children in Early Years, HNC Early Education and Childcare (at SCQF level 7). Qualifications which were previously recognised for SNNEB/NNEB registration may be acceptable. An up to date first aid certificate is also required.
CLOSING DATE - Sunday 1st February 2026
INTERVIEW DATE - Week beginning 9th February 2026
Position Title: Early Years Practitioner
Directorate: Children, Young People and Partnerships
Location: Mount Esk Nursery School
Contract Status: Permanent
Hours of Work: 36 hour per week
Working Pattern: Mon 0800-1700, Tues & Wed 0800-1615, Thurs 0800-1600, Fri 0800-1230
Weeks per year: 39
Please note that it is Midlothian Councils policy that successful applicants will be appointed to the first point on the salary scale. Based on 36 hours over 39 weeks per year, the minimum actual salary for this position is £27,117.25 per annum.
This post is considered Regulated Work with Children under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act, 2007. Therefore, it is an offence to apply if you are barred from working with children. Successful candidates will require PVG Scheme membership for Regulated Work with Children. You will be required to join the Scheme or undergo a PVG Scheme Update check prior to commencing employment with Midlothian Council, the cost of which will be met by you.
If you have difficulty applying for this post or accessing attached documents, or if you have a disability and reasonable adjustment is required, please email recruitment@midlothian.gov.uk to discuss with a member of the Recruitment Team stating the post reference number.
Midlothian Council is currently undergoing a period of transformation, changing and improving the way it delivers services in Midlothian. As a consequence, there are a number of existing employees for whom we are committed to seeking suitable alternative employment within the Council in accordance with our legal obligations. Candidates are advised that, for some vacancies, internal candidates in this situation will be interviewed before the wider selection pool and a slightly longer delay may be experienced before application outcomes can be advised to you.
If you are a trainee of a Midlothian Council Training Programme, have a disability or you are a care experienced young person who has previously been a looked after child, you are eligible for a guaranteed interview if you meet the essential criteria for the post.
Early Years Practitioner - Mount Esk Nursery School - MID07265 employer: Midlothian Council
Contact Detail:
Midlothian Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Practitioner - Mount Esk Nursery School - MID07265
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the nursery! Research Mount Esk Nursery School and understand their values and approach to early years education. This will help you tailor your responses during the interview 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 child development and care. Think about your experiences and how they align with the requirements of the role, so you can confidently share your insights when it counts.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with other early years practitioners on platforms like LinkedIn or local community groups. They might have insider tips or even know someone at Mount Esk Nursery School who can give you a leg up in the application process.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We encourage you to submit your application directly via our site. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and you’ll be one step closer to landing that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Practitioner - Mount Esk Nursery School - MID07265
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Qualifications: Make sure to highlight your qualifications clearly in your application. We want to see that you meet the requirements for SSSC registration, so don’t be shy about listing your HNC or SVQ qualifications!
Tailor Your Application: Take a moment to tailor your application to the Early Years Practitioner role. Use keywords from the job description to show us you understand what we’re looking for and how you fit the bill.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read, so avoid long-winded sentences and get straight to the good stuff!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it makes the whole process smoother for everyone involved.
How to prepare for a job interview at Midlothian Council
✨Know Your Qualifications Inside Out
Make sure you can confidently discuss your qualifications, especially those related to early years practice. Be prepared to explain how your HNC or SVQ aligns with the requirements for SSSC registration and how it has equipped you for the role.
✨Showcase Your Passion for Childcare
During the interview, express your enthusiasm for working with children. Share specific examples of your experiences in early years settings, highlighting how you've positively impacted children's development and learning.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills in childcare situations. Think of a few examples where you successfully handled challenges, ensuring you demonstrate your ability to create a safe and nurturing environment.
✨Understand the PVG Scheme
Familiarise yourself with the PVG Scheme and its importance in safeguarding children. Be ready to discuss your understanding of the process and any relevant experiences you have had regarding child protection and safety.
