At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children's learning and development in a vibrant nursery environment.
- Company: Dean Park Primary School, a welcoming and inclusive community-focused school.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working hours, and a supportive team culture.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to creating a positive workplace for all.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while working in a dynamic setting.
- Qualifications: Experience in early years education and a passion for inclusive practice.
The predicted salary is between 30188 - 34452 £ per year.
Salary: £30,188 - £34,452 (pro‑rated for part‑time and sessional). Hours: 31 per week, 39 weeks sessional.
Dean Park Primary School serves the village of Balerno in south‑west Edinburgh. The school operates across two sites: a large nursery annexe in the heart of the village and the main campus in the Marchbank housing estate. We currently have capacity for 88 full‑time children in our nursery and a primary school roll of 504 pupils. The main campus is also undergoing an expansion, with six new classrooms due for completion this year.
Dean Park Primary is a vibrant, inclusive school with a strong sense of community and shared purpose. Our vision, “creating a learning environment where everyone has the opportunity to flourish”, underpins all that we do. As a Gold Level Rights Respecting School, we place children’s rights at the centre of our ethos, guiding our values, decisions and daily practice.
We are seeking an enthusiastic, skilled and experienced Early Years Practitioner to join our welcoming and inclusive nursery team. The role requires a flexible and adaptable practitioner who is committed to inclusive practice, teamwork and helping every child achieve their full potential.
We are committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce where everyone feels valued and able to be their best. We particularly encourage applications from women for senior roles, as well as people from minority ethnic backgrounds, people with disabilities or neurodivergent people, care‑experienced people, carers and LGBT+ people across all levels of the organisation, all of whom are currently underrepresented. All applicants will be considered fairly based on skills and experience. Disabled and care‑experienced applicants who meet the minimum job criteria will be guaranteed an interview.
This post is regulated work with children and/or protected adults under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007. The preferred candidate will be required to join the PVG Scheme or undergo a PVG Scheme update check. Where an individual has spent a continuous period of 3 months or more out with the UK in the last 5 years, an Overseas Criminal Record Check will be required. You will be required to provide this check. An unconditional offer of employment and commencement in the post will be subject to the outcome of both these pre‑employment checks being deemed satisfactory.
As part of our goal to improve organisational culture and create a great place to work together, we want to make sure we’re recruiting the best people. We’re interested not only in your skills and experience but also in your approach to work. Therefore, part of our interview process will be an assessment of how you would bring Our Behaviours of Respect, Integrity and Flexibility into your ways of working. Happy to talk flexible working.
Early Years Practitioner - Dean Park Primary School employer: The City of Edinburgh Council
Dean Park Primary School is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work environment in the heart of Balerno, south-west Edinburgh. With a strong commitment to employee growth and a focus on creating a supportive community, we encourage diverse applicants and provide opportunities for professional development. Our ethos prioritises children's rights and fosters a culture of respect and integrity, making it a rewarding place for Early Years Practitioners to thrive.
Contact Details:
The City of Edinburgh Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Practitioner - Dean Park Primary School
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who might know about opportunities at Dean Park Primary School. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to a foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for that interview! Research the school’s ethos and values, especially their commitment to inclusivity and children’s rights. Show them you’re not just a great practitioner but also a perfect fit for their community.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to showcase your flexibility and adaptability during the interview. Share examples of how you've successfully navigated challenges in previous roles, as this aligns with what they’re looking for in an Early Years Practitioner.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Practitioner - Dean Park Primary School
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 how much you care about helping children flourish and how you embody our vision of creating a supportive learning environment.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Early Years Practitioner role. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with our values of inclusivity and teamwork, so we can see why you're the perfect fit!
Be Authentic:Don’t be afraid to let your personality come through in your writing. We value authenticity and want to get a sense of who you are as a person. Share your unique experiences and perspectives that make you stand out from the crowd!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Dean Park Primary School!
How to prepare for a job interview at The City of Edinburgh Council
✨Know the School's Values
Before your interview, take some time to understand Dean Park Primary School's vision and values. Familiarise yourself with their commitment to creating a learning environment where everyone can flourish. This will help you align your answers with their ethos during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experience as an Early Years Practitioner. Prepare specific examples of how you've supported inclusive practice and teamwork in your past roles. Highlight any situations where you've helped children achieve their full potential, as this is key to the role.
✨Emphasise Flexibility and Adaptability
Since the role requires a flexible and adaptable practitioner, think of instances where you've successfully adapted to changing circumstances or needs in a nursery setting. Share these stories to demonstrate your ability to thrive in a dynamic environment.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Expect questions that assess how you embody the behaviours of Respect, Integrity, and Flexibility. Reflect on your past experiences and prepare to discuss how you've demonstrated these qualities in your work. This will show that you not only have the skills but also the right approach to fit into their team.
