At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children's learning and development through engaging activities in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Join the friendly team at Oban’s 1st Steps Day Nursery, dedicated to high-quality childcare.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, ongoing training, career progression, and staff wellbeing support.
- Other info: Exciting opportunities for personal growth and professional development in a supportive setting.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while gaining valuable experience in childcare.
- Qualifications: SVQ Level 3 for qualified role; genuine interest in childcare for apprentice role.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 € per year.
Location: Oban’s 1st Steps Day Nursery, Oban, Scotland
Salary: Qualified Nursery Practitioner – Competitive, dependent on experience; Nursery Practitioner Apprentice – Apprentice Rate / National Minimum Wage (depending on age and experience)
Hours: Full-time
About Us
We are a warm, nurturing, and child-centred nursery committed to providing high-quality early learning and childcare in a safe and stimulating environment. We are currently looking for both a Qualified Nursery Practitioner and a Nursery Practitioner Apprentice to join our friendly and supportive team. Whether you are already qualified or looking to begin a rewarding career in childcare, we would love to hear from you.
The Role
- Qualified Nursery Practitioner: As a qualified practitioner, you will play a key role in supporting children’s learning and development through engaging activities, positive relationships, and high standards of care. You will work as part of a dedicated team to create an inclusive and inspiring environment for all children.
- Nursery Practitioner Apprentice: This is an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on experience while working towards a recognised childcare qualification. You will support experienced practitioners and develop the skills needed for a successful career in early years childcare.
Key Responsibilities
- Providing high-quality care and learning experiences for children
- Supporting children’s emotional, social, and educational development
- Planning and participating in fun, age-appropriate activities
- Promoting a safe, caring, and inclusive environment
- Building positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues
- Observing and recording children’s progress
- Following safeguarding, health & safety, and nursery policies at all times
- Supporting children’s wellbeing and development in line with the Curriculum for Excellence and Realising the Ambition guidance
What We’re Looking For
- For the Qualified Nursery Practitioner Role: SVQ Level 3 in Social Services (Children and Young People) or equivalent recognised childcare qualification; Registration with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC), or willingness to register; Previous experience working within an early years setting; Good understanding of child development and wellbeing; Strong communication and teamwork skills; Passionate, reliable, and caring approach.
- For the Apprentice Role: A genuine interest in childcare and early years education; Caring, patient, enthusiastic, and eager to learn; Good standard of literacy and numeracy; Ability to work as part of a team; Commitment to completing apprenticeship training and working towards an SVQ Level 3 qualification.
Desirable Skills & Experience
- Paediatric First Aid qualification
- Knowledge of Curriculum for Excellence and GIRFEC
- Experience with outdoor learning approaches
What We Offer
- Friendly and supportive team environment
- Ongoing training and professional development
- Full apprenticeship training and support (for apprentice role)
- Opportunities for career progression
- Pension scheme
- Staff wellbeing support
- Valuable practical experience in early years childcare
To Apply
If you feel you are a suitable candidate and would like to work for Oban’s 1st Steps Day Nursery, please do not hesitate to apply.
Closing Date: 1 June 2026
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Successful applicants will be subject to PVG checks and reference checks.
Nursery Practitioner and Nursery Practitioner Apprentice in Scotland employer: Oban's 1st Steps Day Nursery
At Oban’s 1st Steps Day Nursery, we pride ourselves on being a nurturing and supportive employer, dedicated to the professional growth of our team members. With a friendly work culture that prioritises ongoing training and development, we offer both qualified practitioners and apprentices the chance to thrive in a rewarding childcare environment. Located in the beautiful town of Oban, our nursery provides a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on children's lives while enjoying a fulfilling career in early years education.
Contact Detail:
Oban's 1st Steps Day Nursery Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Nursery Practitioner and Nursery Practitioner Apprentice in Scotland
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the nursery! Before your interview, take some time to research Oban’s 1st Steps Day Nursery. Familiarise yourself with their values and approach to childcare. 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, like how you would handle a challenging behaviour or support a child's development. Practising your responses can boost your confidence and help you articulate your passion for early years education.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your personality! During the interview, let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through. Share personal experiences or anecdotes that highlight your caring nature and teamwork skills. Remember, they want to see the real you!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity can leave a positive impression. It shows that you’re proactive and genuinely interested in the role. Plus, it keeps you on their radar!
We think you need these skills to ace Nursery Practitioner and Nursery Practitioner Apprentice in Scotland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for childcare shine through! We want to see your genuine interest in working with children and how you can contribute to our nurturing environment.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application for the role you're applying for. Whether it's the Qualified Practitioner or the Apprentice position, highlight relevant experiences and skills that match what we're looking for.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see why you'd be a great fit!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oban's 1st Steps Day Nursery
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the key responsibilities of the role you're applying for. Familiarise yourself with the Curriculum for Excellence and Realising the Ambition guidance, as well as any relevant childcare qualifications. This will show that you're genuinely interested and prepared.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through. Share personal experiences or stories that highlight your caring and patient nature. Employers love to see candidates who are passionate about childcare and eager to make a difference.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the nursery's approach to outdoor learning or how they support staff development. It shows that you're engaged and thinking about how you can contribute to their team.
✨Be Yourself
Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but remember to be yourself! Authenticity goes a long way in building rapport with your interviewers. They want to see the real you and how you'd fit into their friendly and supportive team.
