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Jobs at Aberdeenshire Council

What is a Modern Apprenticeship in Early Years?

Modern Apprenticeships are designed to help you learn whilst working.  You’ll gain hands on experience with your employer and work towards a qualification all while getting paid.  During your apprenticeship, you will receive full training from experienced staff to enable you to complete the day to day activities required in your role.  This work-based learning is aligned with a set criteria allowing you to achieve an SCQF Level 7 (also known as SVQ Level 3) Social Services Children & Young People award. Aberdeenshire Council provide early learning and childcare to children aged 2-5, in 89 school nurseries throughout Aberdeenshire.  Within these Nurseries we have a range of qualified and experienced staff delivering learning activities based on a national curriculum to help children develop their skills and personalities.  Working alongside these team members, you will participate in planning and carrying out these activities while providing nurturing support to our next generation of learners.

A day in the life

A typical day in a school nursery involves developing children’s skills with activities such as number and alphabet games, painting, cooking and outdoor activities. Reading stories and singing songs together is a great way to encourage learning for this age group.  While carrying out these activities you will be assessing how the children are progressing and will report back on this.  Most importantly you will ensure children are kept safe and well.  Studying for your SVQ is completed and assessed as you work, there is no day release to college or exams required.

What happens next?

The Modern Apprenticeship in Early Years is a fixed term role.  While you are not guaranteed a job at the end of your apprenticeship with the Council, most apprentices who successfully complete their apprenticeship continue into further employment with us.  The table below will give you an idea of the next steps into a career in early learning and childcare education following completion of the Modern Apprenticeship.  You can find further information on career progression here

Hear from two of our previous Modern Apprentices Lauren and Louisa, both now permanent members of the Early Years Team.

How do I become a Modern Apprentice in Early Years?

You will need to register for an account at MyJobScotland and complete an online application form.  Remember to read the Job Profile and refer to this to highlight how you meet the criteria.  Don’t worry if you do not have any recent or relevant experience, we want to give you this, but you must tell us about the transferable skills you have and how you have demonstrated these e.g. communication and organisational skills.  You will have demonstrated these at school or in any work experience you may have done.

Who can apply?

You will need academic achievement to Scottish National level 5 or Standard grade level or equivalent, one of which must include English.

Although experience of working with children aged 2-5 would be beneficial it is not essential.  Working with young children requires a nurturing approach, patience and a caring nature.