At a Glance
- Tasks: Support and nurture young children in their growth and development at Papdale Nursery.
- Company: Join the Orkney Islands Council, a supportive and inclusive employer.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working hours, and ongoing training opportunities.
- Other info: Great networking opportunities with other practitioners and a commitment to professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while working in a fun, collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Passion for early years education and relevant qualifications required.
The predicted salary is between 19.18 - 19.18 £ per hour.
Early Years Practitioner at Papdale Primary School
1 x 24.5 hours per week, 50 weeks
1 x 14 hours per week, 50 weeks
Permanent
£31,356 - £31,995 / £32,743 - £35,006 pro rata
£17.18 - £17.53 / £17.94 - £19.18 per hour
The above amounts include Distant Islands Allowance.
You will be reporting to the Early Learning & Childcare Manager at Papdale Nursery.
For the 24.5-hour post, the working pattern is Monday to Friday. For the 14-hour post, the working pattern is Thursday and Friday. We are happy to talk flexible working, where possible.
We are looking for enthusiastic people with a passion for working with young children. You will be a warm and caring person with a real interest in playing with and supporting young children as they grow and develop. You will be curious about young children and keen to develop their interests. You will play a role in planning for and developing the environment and experiences in response to children’s needs. You will work alongside a nurturing and dedicated team who are all committed to delivering the very best for children and their families.
Regular training and courses are offered to all practitioners to support practice development, and there are plenty of opportunities to network with practitioners in other settings. Practitioners are also able to collaborate with practitioners from other settings and share learning.
The necessary qualification, experience and skills required for this role are detailed in the ‘must have’ section of the attached job profile. These criteria are used for decisions on shortlisting and appointment of applicants.
These posts are regulated roles with children and require Level 2 Disclosure with PVG Scheme membership.
Applications close at 23:59 on Sunday 28 June 2026.
For a discussion about the role, contact Rachel Mills, Early Learning & Childcare Manager at rachel.mills@orkney.gov.uk or on 01856 87 2650.
For information on applying and our recruitment process, click here for Information for Applicants.
We would welcome your feedback on our recruitment process.
Orkney Islands Council is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of age, gender, race or ethnicity, disability, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity status or gender reassignment status.
Early Years Practitioner, Papdale Nursery (2 posts) - ORK10470 in Kirkwall employer: Orkney Islands Council
Orkney Islands Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and nurturing work environment for Early Years Practitioners at Papdale Nursery. With a strong commitment to professional development, employees benefit from regular training opportunities and the chance to collaborate with peers across various settings, fostering both personal and career growth. Located in the picturesque Orkney Islands, the council promotes a flexible working culture, ensuring that staff can balance their professional and personal lives while making a meaningful impact on the lives of young children and their families.
