At a Glance
- Tasks: Support and nurture young children in their growth and development.
- Company: Shapinsay Primary School, a caring and dedicated educational environment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working hours, and ongoing training opportunities.
- Other info: Join a community focused on collaboration and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while working in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Passion for early years education and relevant qualifications.
The predicted salary is between 31356 - 31995 € per year.
Shapinsay Primary School is seeking an enthusiastic Early Years Practitioner for 17.5 hours per week, 41 weeks per year. This is a temporary position up to 18 December 2026 with a salary range of £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 report to the Head Teacher at Shapinsay Primary School, working Monday to Friday. We are happy to talk flexible working, where possible.
We are looking for a warm and caring person with a passion for working with young children. You should be curious about young children and keen to develop their interests. Your role will involve planning for and developing the environment and experiences in response to children’s needs.
You will work alongside a nurturing and dedicated team 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 can also collaborate with others 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.
This post is a regulated role with children and requires Level 2 Disclosure with PVG scheme membership.
Applications close at 23:59 on Sunday 31 May 2026, with shortlisting taking place week commencing 1 June 2026 and interviews scheduled for week commencing 8 June 2026.
For a discussion about the role, contact Emma Clements, Head Teacher at emma.clements@orkney.gov.uk or on 01856 711218.
For information on applying and our recruitment process, please refer to the Information for Applicants.
We would welcome your feedback on our recruitment process.
Early Years Practitioner, Shapinsay Primary School - ORK10356 in Orkney employer: Orkney Islands Council
Shapinsay Primary School is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and nurturing environment for Early Years Practitioners dedicated to the growth and development of young children. With a strong emphasis on professional development through regular training and networking opportunities, our team is committed to fostering a collaborative culture that values each member's contributions. Located in the picturesque setting of Shapinsay, we provide a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and their families while enjoying the benefits of flexible working arrangements.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Practitioner, Shapinsay Primary School - ORK10356 in Orkney
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Shapinsay Primary School and its values. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff members on LinkedIn or through local community groups. They can provide insider info about the school culture and what they look for in an Early Years Practitioner.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by thinking about how you can demonstrate your passion for working with young children. Have examples ready that showcase your experience and how you’ve supported children's development in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always here to help if you have any questions about the process.
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Practitioner, Shapinsay Primary School - ORK10356 in Orkney
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with young children shine through. We want to see that you’re not just qualified, but genuinely excited about supporting their growth and development.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role. We love seeing applicants who take the time to connect their background with what we’re looking for in an Early Years Practitioner.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This helps us quickly see why you’d be a great fit for our team!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and gives you a chance to explore more about us and the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Orkney Islands Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of an Early Years Practitioner inside out. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities, like planning activities and supporting children's development. This will help you answer questions confidently and show your genuine interest in the position.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, let your enthusiasm for working with young children shine through. Share personal experiences or anecdotes that highlight your caring nature and curiosity about child development. This will resonate well with the interviewers and demonstrate that you're a great fit for their nurturing team.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask at the end of the interview. This could be about the school's approach to early years education or how they support professional development. It shows that you're engaged and serious about the role, plus it gives you valuable insights into the school culture.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Consider doing a mock interview with a friend or family member. Practising common interview questions can help you articulate your thoughts better and reduce nerves. Focus on how you would respond to questions about your experience and how you would handle specific situations with children.
