At a Glance
- Tasks: Support early years education and help children reach their potential 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: Work 35 hours a week during term-time and receive training for a care professional qualification.
- Why this job: Perfect for those passionate about working with young children and making an impact.
- Qualifications: Must have 4 National 5s, including English, and a numeracy qualification.
The predicted salary is between 24673 - 24673 £ per year.
Grade: Scottish Living Government Living Wage
Hourly Rate: £13.52
Salary: £24,673.97 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.
Modern Apprentice Early Years Practitioner - Various Locations - SBO10054 in Melrose employer: Scottish Borders Council
Scottish Borders Council is an excellent employer for those looking to start their career in early years education, offering a supportive and nurturing environment across various locations. As a Modern Apprentice, you will receive comprehensive training, including the opportunity to achieve a Scottish Vocational Qualification, while working alongside experienced professionals dedicated to fostering child development. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, the Council ensures that all employees feel valued and supported in their growth and development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Modern Apprentice Early Years Practitioner - Various Locations - SBO10054 in Melrose
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the locations you're applying for! Research each school and understand their values and community. 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
Practice makes perfect! Before your interview, run through common questions with a friend or family member. Focus on how your skills and experiences align with the role of an Early Years Practitioner. We want you to feel confident and ready to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of networking! Reach out to current or former apprentices in the Early Years sector. They can provide valuable insights and tips that could give you an edge in your application process.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows that you’re proactive and keen to join the Scottish Borders Council's Early Years Team. Let’s get you started on this exciting journey!
We think you need these skills to ace Modern Apprentice Early Years Practitioner - Various Locations - SBO10054 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 the Modern Apprentice role. Highlight any relevant experience or skills that match what we're looking for, especially your communication and interpersonal skills.
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 understand your qualifications quickly!
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 Role
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of a Modern Apprentice Early Years Practitioner. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities and the importance of supporting children's development. 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 or examples that demonstrate your caring and nurturing approach. 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 shows that you’re engaged and interested in the position. You might ask about the training opportunities available or how the team supports each other in delivering high-quality early years education.
✨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 and experiences align with the requirements of the role, especially your ability to work as part of a team.
