At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children with diverse abilities in early years settings through observations and training.
- Company: Join VSA’s innovative Additional Support Needs Advisory Project team.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive shadowing period, ongoing professional development, and meaningful work.
- Other info: Collaborative environment focused on continuous learning and sector-wide improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives and promote inclusive practices.
- Qualifications: Experience in Early Years or related fields, strong communication skills, and a passion for child development.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Location: Base Linn Moor but travel will be involved to different nurseries within Aberdeen city.
Contract: 39 hours per week. Driver licence required and access to own transport is essential to this role.
About the Role
This is a unique opportunity to join a specialised team within VSA’s Additional Support Needs Advisory Project (ASNAP). Our team delivers an innovative model of support to Early Years Settings across Aberdeen City. We empower the workforce to inclusively support children with diverse abilities and needs to learn through play. ASNAP aims to provide the workforce with knowledge, skills, and strategies to inclusively support children with diverse abilities and needs to learn through play. Due to the specialist nature of this post, we have created a 3‑month shadowing period, allowing the successful candidate to work alongside experienced ASNAP Advisors before taking on a full caseload. This ensures high‑quality induction, confidence building, and a deep understanding of our practice model.
Key Responsibilities
- Observations & Assessment: Carry out child‑centred observations within early years settings, focusing on how children engage with their environment, peers, and staff. Observe children across different areas—indoors, outdoors, and during busy routines such as mealtimes. Ensure observations are responsive, reflective, and grounded in children’s rights, interacting only as much as the child is comfortable with.
- Environmental & Practice Support: Conduct environmental observations to advise on layout, sensory input, resources, and adaptations that support children’s regulation and engagement. Provide practical, evidence‑informed strategies to staff, helping them create predictable, nurturing, and inclusive environments.
- Training & Capacity Building: Deliver training sessions such as Supporting Communication & Sensory Integration in a Learning Environment and Trauma in the Early Years. Promote reflective practice across staff teams, encouraging self‑awareness and continuous professional learning.
- Report Writing & Follow‑Up: Collaborate with another ASNAP Advisor to produce detailed, strengths‑based reports following observations. Maintain communication with settings to ensure strategies are implemented consistently and effectively.
What We’re Looking For
- Professional experience in Early Years, Additional Support Needs, Child Development, Education, or related fields.
- Strong understanding of child development, sensory processing, communication differences, and inclusive practice.
- Ability to observe sensitively, analyse behaviour reflectively, and translate observations into practical strategies.
- Confident communicator who can build trusting relationships with staff, children, and families.
- Commitment to GIRFEC, Realising the Ambition, Curriculum for Excellence, and high‑quality early years practice.
- A reflective practitioner who values collaboration, curiosity, and child‑centred approaches.
Why Join ASNAP?
- Be part of a highly specialised, respected, and innovative team shaping inclusive practice across Aberdeen City.
- Benefit from a 3‑month supported shadowing period, ensuring you feel confident and well‑prepared.
- Work in a role that is deeply meaningful, creative, and grounded in children’s rights and wellbeing.
- Access ongoing professional development, research‑informed practice, and opportunities to influence sector‑wide improvement.
- Make a real difference to children’s experiences, helping them expand their “window of tolerance” and thrive in early learning environments.
Click apply for this position today!
Additional Support Needs Advisor employer: VSA
Join VSA's Additional Support Needs Advisory Project (ASNAP) and become part of a dedicated team that is transforming early years education across Aberdeen City. With a strong emphasis on professional development, you will benefit from a comprehensive 3-month shadowing period, ensuring you are well-equipped to support children with diverse abilities in a meaningful and impactful way. Our inclusive work culture fosters collaboration and creativity, allowing you to make a significant difference in the lives of children and their families while enjoying ongoing opportunities for growth and learning.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Additional Support Needs Advisor
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the Early Years and Additional Support Needs sectors. Attend local events or workshops, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have a lead on your dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Get your hands dirty with some volunteering! It’s a great way to gain experience and show your commitment to inclusive practice. Plus, it gives you a chance to meet potential employers and showcase your skills in real-life settings.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to child development and inclusive practices. Use examples from your experience to demonstrate your understanding and passion. We want to see how you can make a difference!
✨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 are proactive and engaged with our mission at ASNAP.
We think you need these skills to ace Additional Support Needs Advisor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience in Early Years and Additional Support Needs. We want to see how your skills align with our mission to support children with diverse abilities.
Showcase Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for inclusive practice shine through! Share examples of how you've made a difference in children's lives or how you've supported staff in early years settings. We love seeing genuine passion.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your experiences and qualifications, making it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for ASNAP.
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 this exciting opportunity with ASNAP.
How to prepare for a job interview at VSA
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of child development and inclusive practices. Familiarise yourself with key concepts like sensory processing and communication differences, as these will likely come up during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your professional experience in Early Years or Additional Support Needs. Think of specific examples where you've successfully supported children with diverse abilities, and be ready to explain how you approached those situations.
✨Practice Observational Skills
Since the role involves child-centred observations, practice articulating how you would observe and assess children's engagement. Be prepared to discuss how you would translate those observations into practical strategies for staff.
✨Build Rapport
Demonstrate your ability to build trusting relationships by being warm and approachable during the interview. Show that you value collaboration and are keen to work alongside staff, children, and families to create inclusive environments.
