At a Glance
- Tasks: Support early years education and help children reach their full potential in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Join the Scottish Borders Council's Early Years Team as a Modern Apprentice.
- Benefits: Earn £13.52 per hour, gain qualifications, and enjoy a supportive work culture.
- Other info: Work 35 hours a week during term-time with excellent training opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your career in childcare.
- Qualifications: Must be aged 16-24 with 4 National 5s, including English.
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 Practitioner (Childcare) Apprenticeship in Melrose employer: Scottish Borders Council
Scottish Borders Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and nurturing environment for Early Years Practitioners. With a commitment to professional development, employees will have the opportunity to gain valuable qualifications while working in diverse locations across the Scottish Borders. The council fosters a culture of inclusivity and community engagement, ensuring that every team member can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the welfare of children and families.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Practitioner (Childcare) Apprenticeship 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 get to the interview, you can show how your passion for early years aligns with their mission.
✨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 tricky questions about your experience and approach to childcare.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to prepare some questions for your interviewers! Asking about their team dynamics or how they support apprentices shows that you’re genuinely interested in the role and eager to learn.
✨Tip Number 4
Finally, apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready to embrace the modern world of work!
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Practitioner (Childcare) Apprenticeship 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. We love seeing how you fit into our team!
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’s easy to read and understand.
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. Plus, it makes it easier for us to review your application.
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 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.
✨Showcase Your Passion
During the interview, let your enthusiasm for working with young children shine through. Share any relevant experiences, whether it's babysitting, volunteering, or coursework. This will demonstrate your commitment to the role and your ability to connect with children and their families.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask at the end of the interview. This could be about the training process, team dynamics, or how they support apprentices. It shows that you're engaged and eager to learn more about the role and the organisation.
✨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 anxiety. Focus on how your skills align with the job requirements, especially your communication and interpersonal skills.
