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 options, and ongoing training opportunities.
- Other info: Join a network of practitioners and enhance your skills through collaboration.
- 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, with plenty of opportunities to network and collaborate with practitioners from other settings.
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.
Early Years Practitioner, Shapinsay Primary School - ORK10356 in Scotland employer: Orkney Islands Council
Shapinsay Primary School is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and nurturing environment for Early Years Practitioners. With a strong commitment to professional development, employees benefit from regular training opportunities and the chance to collaborate with fellow practitioners, fostering a culture of continuous learning. Located in the picturesque setting of Shapinsay, the school promotes a flexible working pattern and values the well-being of its staff, making it an ideal place for those passionate about early childhood education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Practitioner, Shapinsay Primary School - ORK10356 in Scotland
✨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 education forums. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by thinking about how you can demonstrate your passion for working with young children. Have some examples ready that showcase your experience and enthusiasm for early years education.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Shapinsay Primary School.
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Practitioner, Shapinsay Primary School - ORK10356 in Scotland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for working with young children right from the start. Share experiences that highlight your warmth and caring nature, as well as your curiosity about child development.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements mentioned in the job description. Highlight how your skills and experiences align with what we’re looking for at Shapinsay Primary School.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon, so we can easily understand your qualifications and passion for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure it reaches us directly and allows you to keep track of your application status easily.
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 help the interviewers see that you're not just qualified, but also genuinely passionate about the role.
✨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 practitioners' professional development. It shows you're engaged and interested in being part of their team.
✨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 any nerves. Plus, it gives you a chance to refine your answers and ensure you’re presenting your best self.
