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- Tasks: Support children with additional support needs in early years settings and promote inclusive practices.
- Company: Join West Lothian Council, committed to innovative education and a diverse workforce.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive work environment with opportunities for professional development and community impact.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while working in a dynamic and inclusive team.
- Qualifications: Relevant skills and experience in supporting children with additional support needs are essential.
- Other info: This role is maternity cover until March 2026; interviews on 4th June 2024.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 33600 £ per year.
Interviews will be held on Wednesday 4th June 2024. ELC Practitioner – Polbeth NS (Early Years / Additional Support Needs) (Maternity cover until 31 March 2026).
We are keen to employ a diverse workforce that reflects the people of Scotland. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and particularly from groups currently under-represented, including people with disabilities, those from minority ethnic communities or from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
West Lothian Council is committed to far-reaching changes to the way we deliver our Education Services. These changes include giving you the support and environment that you need to get on with your job and develop your abilities. Our dedication is demonstrated by the whole council achievement of the Investors in People Standard and always aiming a little higher in our service delivery and improvements.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an enthusiastic and driven Early Years Practitioner to join the Central Early Years Team, working closely with the Development Officer for EY / ASN.
The role of ELC Practitioner for EY / ASN is to support the Early Years and ASN Central Services to support innovative and creative approaches in supporting ELC and all service users to embed the presumption of mainstream.
The role will include the following responsibilities:
- Provide relevant and proportionate support to Council ELC settings and Private Partner Providers, including ELCs, Playgroups and Childminders.
- Direct work with children who have ASN, modelling inclusive practices for staff teams.
- Support the promotion of positive behaviour support, i.e., develop positive response plans for individual children, support the creation and implementation of sensory diets, etc.
- Support CLPL opportunities for all practitioners to build staff confidence in the presumption of mainstream strategy and Inclusive Pedagogy.
You will be required to:
- Have relevant skills, knowledge and experience in supporting children with ASN.
- Provide individual, personalised support to ELC children in a range of settings, as required.
- Work across all ELC establishments to promote a shared language and understanding of inclusive practices, creativity and their role in meeting the needs of all learners.
- Be confident in communication with parents and other stakeholders, where required.
- Support the EY ASN Networks.
- Support the facilitation of the Parent Focus Sessions for parents of pre-school children with ASN.
- In exceptional circumstances, provide cover for ELC settings.
This post is considered Regulated Work with children and/or protected adults under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scotland Act 2007. From 28 February 2011 preferred candidates will be required to join the PVG Scheme or undergo a PVG Scheme update check prior to a formal offer of employment being made by West Lothian Council.
For further information please contact Maria Brown, Quality Improvement Officer (Early Years).
ELC Practitioner, St Marys Primary School/Polbeth Nursery, 492.56 - WEL09160 employer: West Lothian Council
Contact Detail:
West Lothian Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land ELC Practitioner, St Marys Primary School/Polbeth Nursery, 492.56 - WEL09160
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the principles of inclusive pedagogy and how they apply to early years education. Understanding these concepts will help you demonstrate your commitment to supporting children with additional support needs during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current practitioners in early years settings, especially those who work with children with ASN. Engaging with professionals in the field can provide you with insights and tips that may be beneficial during your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific strategies you've used or would use to promote positive behaviour support in children with ASN. Having concrete examples ready will showcase your practical experience and understanding of the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research West Lothian Council's recent initiatives and changes in their Education Services. Being knowledgeable about their goals and values will allow you to align your answers with their vision during the interview.
We think you need these skills to ace ELC Practitioner, St Marys Primary School/Polbeth Nursery, 492.56 - WEL09160
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the ELC Practitioner position. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant skills and experiences that align with the role.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous experience you have working with children, particularly those with Additional Support Needs (ASN). Provide specific examples of how you've supported inclusive practices in your past roles.
Showcase Your Skills: Make sure to mention any qualifications or training related to Early Years education and ASN. Highlight your communication skills, ability to work collaboratively, and any experience in developing positive behaviour support plans.
Personalise Your Application: Address your application to the hiring manager, if possible, and express your enthusiasm for the role and the values of West Lothian Council. Mention why you are particularly interested in contributing to their commitment to inclusive education.
How to prepare for a job interview at West Lothian Council
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of an ELC Practitioner, especially in relation to supporting children with Additional Support Needs (ASN). Familiarise yourself with inclusive practices and be ready to discuss how you can implement them.
✨Show Your Passion for Early Years Education
Demonstrate your enthusiasm for working with young children and your commitment to fostering an inclusive environment. Share personal experiences or examples that highlight your dedication to early years education and supporting diverse learners.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle challenging situations. Think about past experiences where you successfully supported children with ASN and be ready to explain your approach.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since communication with parents and other stakeholders is key, prepare to discuss how you would build relationships with families and collaborate with colleagues. Highlight any previous experience you have in engaging with parents or working in a team setting.
