At a Glance
- Tasks: Help create a nurturing environment and deliver play-based learning for children aged 3-5.
- Company: Join the founding team of Little Explorers at Strathallan School's new nursery.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, free lunch, retail discounts, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to grow alongside a brand new nursery.
- Why this job: Be part of something special and shape the future of early years education.
- Qualifications: Early years qualification and experience with children aged 3-5 required.
The predicted salary is between 35193 - 37689 € per year.
We are delighted and extremely excited to be recruiting our very first staff team for Little Explorers, Strathallan School's brand-new nursery. This is a rare and rewarding opportunity to be part of something special from the outset. We are seeking up to four highly motivated Early Years professionals (Nursery Practitioners and a Play Assistant) who are ready to embrace both the challenge and the joy of establishing a new nursery from scratch, working alongside our inspiring newly appointed Nursery Manager.
Opening within the outstanding grounds of Strathallan School, Little Explorers will provide high quality early learning and care for children aged 3 to 5 years. As a member of the founding team, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the ethos and daily life of the nursery, helping to embed exceptional early years practice within the values, traditions and high standards of one of Scotland's leading independent schools.
This is a fantastic opportunity for individuals who are enthusiastic, creative and passionate about early years education, and who are excited by the prospect of helping to create a setting where children and staff can flourish together. You will help create a warm, nurturing and stimulating environment, working closely with colleagues to plan and deliver rich, play based learning experiences that support every child's learning and development.
A defining feature of Little Explorers will be its strong outdoor learning ethos. Children will be encouraged to spend significant time outdoors, enjoying purposeful, nature rich experiences that foster curiosity, confidence and wellbeing. Our team will be central to developing engaging, safe and inspiring indoor and outdoor spaces that invite exploration and discovery every day.
In return, Strathallan School offers the chance to be part of an exciting new chapter within a supportive and values driven community. This role will particularly suit professionals who take pride in their practice, thrive in a collaborative environment, and are energised by the opportunity to help shape a nursery's vision.
About You
You are an enthusiastic, motivated early years professional who is excited by the chance to help build something truly special from day one. You will:
- Be registered with the SSSC (or be willing to register on appointment)
- Hold a relevant early years qualification (SVQ Level 3, HNC or equivalent)
- Have experience working with children aged 3-5, delivering high quality, play based learning
- Feel confident and energised delivering purposeful, meaningful outdoor learning
- Thrive as a positive, collaborative team player, bringing warmth, creativity and professionalism to everything you do
- Have a genuine passion for early years education, child led learning and helping children flourish through curiosity, exploration and play
Most importantly, you will be excited by the opportunity to help shape the culture, values and daily life of a brand new nursery - and to grow alongside it.
Terms & Conditions
Remuneration
The salary for this role is £35,193 - £37,689 per annum.
Hours of Work
This is a full-time role, working 40 hours per week, although part time working may be considered for the right candidate.
Pension Scheme
Access to a contributory pension scheme with a 4% employer contribution.
Benefits
In addition to joining an exciting new nursery, you'll have access to:
- Free on site parking
- Free lunch during term time
- Staff discount in the Art Café
- Retail discounts and Blue Light Card eligibility
- Death in service cover
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- A range of Wellbeing Support
- Occupational sick pay
- Competitive annual leave
Applicant Information
Any offer of employment will be subject to Safer Recruitment checks, including:
- Disclosure Scotland PVG clearance
- Two satisfactory professional references
- Proof of Right to Work in the UK
If you feel inspired by the opportunity to help shape Little Explorers Nursery and want to be part of its founding story, please submit your application online by Sunday 31st May 2026. Interviews will be arranged during the week commencing 8th June 2026.
The full job description and person specification can be found in the attached role brief. For an informal conversation or any questions, please contact hr@strathallan.co.uk.
Nursery Practitioner - 471384 in Bridge of Earn employer: Strathallan School
Strathallan School offers an exceptional opportunity for Nursery Practitioners to join the founding team of Little Explorers, a brand-new nursery set in the beautiful grounds of one of Scotland's leading independent schools. With a strong emphasis on outdoor learning and a collaborative work culture, employees will benefit from professional growth, competitive remuneration, and a supportive community that values creativity and passion for early years education. This role is perfect for those eager to make a meaningful impact while enjoying perks such as free parking, lunch during term time, and access to wellbeing support.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Nursery Practitioner - 471384 in Bridge of Earn
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the nursery's ethos and values before your interview. This way, you can show how your passion for early years education aligns with their vision. We want to see that you're not just a fit for the role, but also for the culture!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare some creative ideas for outdoor learning experiences. Since Little Explorers has a strong outdoor ethos, showcasing your innovative thinking will definitely impress us. Think about how you can make nature a part of every child's learning journey!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your teamwork skills! As a founding member of the nursery, collaboration is key. Be ready to share examples of how you've worked well in teams before, and how you can contribute to building a supportive environment at Little Explorers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows that you're serious about joining our exciting new team at Little Explorers!
We think you need these skills to ace Nursery Practitioner - 471384 in Bridge of Earn
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for early years education shine through! We want to see your genuine excitement about helping to create a nurturing environment for children. Share specific examples of how you've made a difference in previous roles.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the values and ethos of Little Explorers. Highlight your experience with outdoor learning and play-based education, as these are key aspects of our nursery. We love seeing how you align with our vision!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and structure your thoughts logically. We appreciate well-organised applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and experiences at a glance.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! This helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Strathallan School
✨Know Your Nursery Values
Before the interview, take some time to understand the ethos and values of Little Explorers. Familiarise yourself with their focus on outdoor learning and child-led experiences. This will help you align your answers with what they’re looking for and show that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their vision.
✨Showcase Your Creativity
As a Nursery Practitioner, creativity is key! Prepare examples of how you've previously created engaging, play-based learning experiences. Think about activities that encourage exploration and curiosity, especially those that can be done outdoors. This will demonstrate your ability to contribute to a stimulating environment.
✨Be a Team Player
Collaboration is essential in a nursery setting. During the interview, highlight your experiences working as part of a team. Share specific instances where you’ve successfully collaborated with colleagues to enhance children's learning or improve the nursery environment. This will show that you thrive in a supportive community.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the nursery's approach to early years education, the role of the founding team, and how they envision the nursery evolving. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.
