At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the delivery of a high-quality early years curriculum in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Join the Scottish Borders Council's Early Years Team and make a difference.
- Benefits: Earn £13.52 per hour, gain qualifications, and enjoy a supportive work culture.
- Other info: Flexible locations across the Scottish Borders with career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Work with young children and help them reach their full potential.
- Qualifications: Must have 4 National 5s, including English, and a passion for childcare.
The predicted salary is between 24673 - 24673 £ per year.
Grade: Scottish Living Government Living Wage
Hourly Rate: £13.52
Salary: £24673.97 per annum
Interview dates: 26th and 27th August 2026
Start date in post: 6th January 2027
End date in post: 28th May 2028
AVAILABLE LOCATIONS:
- Eyemouth Primary School
- Broomlands Primary School
- Jedburgh Campus
- Wilton Primary School
- Melrose Primary School
- Earlston Primary School
- Tweedbank Primary School
- St Margaret's RC Primary School
- Kingsland Primary School
- St Ronan's Primary School
Role Purpose
An exciting opportunity has become available to join Scottish Borders Council's Early Years Team as a Modern Apprentice (MA). We are recruiting 10 MAs to join existing Early Learning and Childcare teams in selected training places across the Scottish Borders. You will work as a member of a team, supporting the delivery of a high quality, safe and balanced early years curriculum within a caring, safe and welcoming environment, to enable each child to reach their potential. You will learn about the importance of working with parents and carers, and other agencies, to promote the welfare and development of every child.
So, if you have an interest and enthusiasm for working with young children, have a caring and nurturing approach and have good interpersonal and communication skills, we would welcome your application. Successful applicants will be supported to complete a Scottish Vocational Qualification (SCFQ Level 7) Social Services: Children and Young People to allow registration as a care professional with the Scottish Social Service Council (SSSC).
Modern Apprentices will work 35 hours per week during term-time.
Essential:
- 4 National 5s (or equivalent), one of which should be English
- A numeracy qualification to at least Nat 4 level or equivalent
- Ability to use initiative to support own learning
- The applicant must evidence their ability to achieve a SCQF 7 Social Services (Children and Young People) within the period of the MA contract. This is a requirement of this post.
- All successful applicants will be required to register with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) within 3 months of appointment and maintain registration throughout the period of employment.
- Applicants must be aged 16 to 24 years to be eligible for the Modern Apprentice roles.
Informal Enquiries
Informal enquiries may be made to Leigh Brown by telephone on 01835 827401 or by email at earlyyearsteamed@scotborders.gov.uk
Scottish Borders Council is committed to improving the diversity of its workforce to better reflect the communities we serve. We welcome applications from all minority groups and individuals who identify with one or more of the protected characteristics as defined by the Equality Act 2010. In particular from candidates who assess themselves as having a disability, under the Disability Confident Employer scheme this guarantees an interview to those individuals who meet the essential criteria of the post. All appointments will be made on merit.
Scottish Borders Council is committed to providing support for Armed Forces Veterans. Showing its commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant, the Council guarantees an interview to veterans who meet the essential criteria of the post. All appointments will be made on merit.
Early Years Apprentice Practitioner in Melrose employer: Scottish Borders Council
Scottish Borders Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and nurturing environment for Early Years Apprentice Practitioners. With a commitment to employee growth through the provision of a Scottish Vocational Qualification, our work culture prioritises collaboration and community engagement, ensuring that every team member can thrive while making a meaningful impact on the lives of young children across various locations in the Scottish Borders.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Apprentice Practitioner in Melrose
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the schools you're applying to! Research their values and what makes them unique. This way, when you chat with them, you can show off your knowledge and enthusiasm for their specific environment.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Grab a friend or family member and do some mock interviews. This will help you feel more confident and ready to tackle those questions about your passion for early years education.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to ask questions during your interview! It shows you're genuinely interested in the role and helps you figure out if it's the right fit for you. Think of a couple of thoughtful questions to bring along.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s super easy and ensures your application gets to the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Apprentice Practitioner in Melrose
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with young children shine through. We want to see that you genuinely care about their development and well-being!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application for this role. Highlight any relevant experience or skills that match the job description, especially your communication and interpersonal skills.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your writing clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward applications that get straight to the heart of why you’re a great fit for the Early Years Apprentice Practitioner role.
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 can process your application smoothly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Borders Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of an Early Years Apprentice Practitioner. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities and the importance of a nurturing environment for children. 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 any relevant experiences or stories that highlight your caring approach and interpersonal skills. This will help the interviewers see that you’re not just qualified, but also genuinely excited about the role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few questions to ask at the end of the interview. This could be about the training opportunities available or how the team supports each other. Asking insightful questions shows that you’re engaged and serious about the position, plus it gives you a chance to learn more about the environment you'll be working in.
✨Dress Appropriately
Even though this is a role in early years education, it's important to dress smartly for the interview. Aim for a professional yet comfortable look that reflects your respect for the opportunity. This will help create a positive first impression and show that you take the interview seriously.
