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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 George Heriot’s Trust.
- Benefits: Enjoy enhanced sick pay, family-friendly policies, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Commitment to safeguarding and promoting children's welfare is essential.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while working in a supportive community.
- 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 in Edinburgh 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 in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the early years sector. We all know someone who knows someone, so don’t be shy about asking for introductions or insights into the roles available.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the nursery’s ethos and values, and think about how your experience aligns with their needs. We want you to shine, so practice common interview questions and have some examples ready to showcase your skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for early years education! During interviews, let your enthusiasm for child development and learning through play come through. We love candidates who can demonstrate their commitment to nurturing young minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for dedicated Early Years Practitioners who fit our ethos, so make sure you get your application in early!
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Practitioner (3 roles) Fixed-Term, 1 Year from August 2026 in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with children shine through. We want to see that you genuinely care about their development and learning, so share any relevant experiences that highlight your commitment to early years education.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Early Years Practitioner. Highlight your qualifications, like your SVQ Level 3 or HNC, and any experience in a nursery setting. We love seeing how your background aligns with our ethos and the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate when candidates can communicate effectively, as this is crucial in a nursery environment where collaboration with parents and staff is key.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our school and what we stand for.
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 warmth and enthusiasm shine through. Share examples of how you've engaged with children in a nursery setting or how you've supported families. This is key for fitting into the ethos of the school and demonstrating your commitment to their values.
✨Team Player Vibes
Be ready to discuss your experience working as part of a team. Highlight any collaborative projects or initiatives you’ve been involved in. The interviewers will want to see that you can work well with others, especially in a nursery environment where teamwork is crucial.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the nursery’s approach to learning through play or how they support professional development. It shows you’re engaged and serious about the position, plus it gives you a chance to assess if it’s the right fit for you.