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Jobs at Aberdeenshire Council

A Career in Pre-School Education

If you enjoy working with children, enjoy a challenge and are looking for a rewarding career. A career in Pre-school education could be the choice for you.

The Early Learning  & Childcare sector (ELC) is increasing and we are currently responsible for over 90 nursery schools including a small number of special nursery schools. Many struggle to notice the difference between a teacher and a nursery nurse in today’s world, and this shows just how valued a career this can be.

Working with young children, you will not only be faced with exciting challenges but will make a difference to the lives of others.

We are looking for people with a genuine love for working with young children, who have the ability to exert patience and support as these young children begin to learn and develop.

What qualifications and experience do you need?

The minimum requirement for entry as an Early Years Practitioner within the pre-school sector is an SVQ level 3 in childcare, learning and development or the equivalent (e.g. SNEB, NNEB, Level 3 early education and childcare).

In future you will also need to be registered with the Scottish Social Services Council. Experience in delivering the curriculum framework for children 3 to 5 is important. Like any career, you need to be self-motivated; relevant experience can be gained in a private day nursery or a commissioned playgroup.

We also like to encourage anyone with previous qualifications and experience in childcare to apply for a position within Aberdeenshire Council.  Maybe you have been out of work because of paternity or maternity responsibilities, or maybe you have been involved in a different kind of employment and wish to get back into delivering pre-school education. Whatever the reason, Aberdeenshire Council has nursery schools requiring people like you.

What roles are available in Early Learning & Childcare?

Modern Apprentices in Early Years are a newly introduced scheme in Aberdeenshire, Apprentices will work toward the Level 7 qualification while gaining experience in the Nursery environment.

Early Years Practitioners deliver the curriculum to children aged 3 & 4 in our nurseries and offer a wide range of skills to support wellbeing, early learning and development.

Early Years Lead Practitioners have the additional role of supporting the school management team in the planning and implementation of the curriculum.

Early Years Senior Practitioners have line management responsibility and ensure the day to day running of the nursery.

Relief Early Years Practitioners provide short term cover across Aberdeenshire to ensure continuity of the early learning being delivered.

Future Career Opportunities

Aberdeenshire Council is committed to continuous professional development, training and continuous development is available for all staff. We will encourage your professional development, supporting you in every way and helping you realise your potential.

More information about a career in Early Learning & Childcare in Scotland