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- Tasks: Support children's development and learning through play in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Join a dedicated Early Years team at Heriot's, committed to child welfare.
- Benefits: Enjoy enhanced sick pay, family-friendly policies, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse community focused on safeguarding and promoting children's welfare.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while growing your career in childcare.
- Qualifications: SVQ Level 3 or HNC in childcare, with enthusiasm and teamwork skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are seeking to recruit suitably qualified and dedicated Early Years Practitioners to join our talented Early Years team, from August 2026. Our Early Years Practitioners have a responsibility, in close conjunction with teaching staff, for the delivery of the curriculum, children’s development and progress, development and learning through play, support for children and families, resources and ethos. This opportunity has arisen due to an extension of our childcare provision and will work with the new Head of Nursery and existing early years team.
We have the following positions available from August 2026:
- Monday to Friday 7.30am-12.35pm (Fixed-Term, until June 2027)
- Monday to Friday 8.00am-4.00pm (Fixed-Term, until June 2027)
- Monday to Friday 8.00am-4.00pm (Fixed-Term, Maternity cover, until December 2027)
Main Responsibilities: Please see attached full job description for details.
Ideal Candidate:
- Be registered/ be eligible for registration as a Practitioner with SSSC
- Qualified to SVQ Level 3 or HNC (or equivalent) in an appropriate, childcare-related subject
- Enthusiasm, resilience and warmth with a commitment to the Heriot’s ethos.
- Thorough knowledge of current safeguarding practices and legislation in a nursery environment
- Previous experience working within a school setting is preferable but not essential
- Proven experience of working effectively as part of a team in a Nursery environment
- Previous experience of liaising with parents regarding all aspects of their child’s nursery experience, addressing concerns and escalating any issues to the nursery teachers as appropriate
Additional Information:
Heriot’s is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share in this commitment. This post is considered Regulated Work with Vulnerable Children and/or Protected Adults, under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007 and the successful candidates will be required to obtain membership of the PVG scheme. Please note that parking is not available on our campus.
George Heriot’s Trust is an Equal Opportunities employer and we welcome applications from all sections of the community.
Package Description:
- Enhanced sick pay, maternity and paternity pay
- Family friendly policies (Including Personal Emergency Leave Days)
- Continued professional development opportunities
- Travel to work schemes
- School Fee Remission (non-contractual benefit)
- Employee Assistance programme, including 24/7 counselling helpline and high street, supermarket, and general retail discounts
- Opportunities for involvement in the wider school community
We aim to attract and retain a diverse group of talented people, who are committed to upholding the school’s ethos. As an Equal Opportunities employer, we welcome applications from all sections of the community.
Early Years Practitioner (3 roles) Fixed-Term, 1 Year from August 2026 employer: Scottish Council of Independent Schools
Contact Detail:
Scottish Council of Independent Schools Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Practitioner (3 roles) Fixed-Term, 1 Year from August 2026
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the early years sector. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know. Attend local events or join online groups to meet people who can help you land that Early Years Practitioner role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions. Think about how your experience aligns with the responsibilities listed in the job description. We suggest doing mock interviews with friends or family to boost your confidence and get feedback.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for early years education! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let your enthusiasm shine through. Share stories about your experiences working with children and how you’ve supported their development and learning.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. So, get your application in and let’s make it happen!
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Practitioner (3 roles) Fixed-Term, 1 Year from August 2026
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through. We want to see your commitment to their development and how you embody the warmth and resilience that fits our ethos.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in early years settings. We love seeing how your background aligns with the responsibilities of the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your skills and qualifications!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your sentences are easy to read and directly address the key points from the job description.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Council of Independent Schools
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re familiar with the Early Years curriculum and current safeguarding practices. Brush up on your knowledge of child development and how to support children and families effectively. This will show that you’re not just qualified, but genuinely passionate about the role.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
During the interview, let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that highlight your warmth and resilience. This is key for a role that requires a commitment to the ethos of the nursery.
✨Team Player Vibes
Be ready to discuss your experience working in teams, especially in a nursery environment. Talk about how you’ve collaborated with colleagues and communicated with parents. This will demonstrate that you can fit right into their existing team dynamic.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the nursery’s approach to early years education and how they support staff development. This shows that you’re not only interested in the position but also in contributing positively to the nursery’s community.