Nursery Practitioner and Nursery Practitioner Apprentice

Nursery Practitioner & Nursery Practitioner Apprentice

Location: Oban’s 1st Steps Day Nursery, Oban, Scotland

Salary:

• Qualified Nursery Practitioner – Competitive, dependent on experience
• Nursery Practitioner Apprentice – Apprentice Rate / National Minimum Wage (depending on age and experience)

Hours: Full-time

About Us

We are a warm, nurturing, and child-centred nursery committed to providing high-quality early learning and childcare in a safe and stimulating environment.

We are currently looking for both a Qualified Nursery Practitioner and a Nursery Practitioner Apprentice to join our friendly and supportive team. Whether you are already qualified or looking to begin a rewarding career in childcare, we would love to hear from you.

The Role

Qualified Nursery Practitioner

As a qualified practitioner, you will play a key role in supporting children’s learning and development through engaging activities, positive relationships, and high standards of care. You will work as part of a dedicated team to create an inclusive and inspiring environment for all children.

Nursery Practitioner Apprentice

This is an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on experience while working towards a recognised childcare qualification. You will support experienced practitioners and develop the skills needed for a successful career in early years childcare.

Key Responsibilities

Depending on the role, responsibilities may include:

• Providing high-quality care and learning experiences for children
• Supporting children’s emotional, social, and educational development
• Planning and participating in fun, age-appropriate activities
• Promoting a safe, caring, and inclusive environment
• Building positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues
• Observing and recording children’s progress
• Following safeguarding, health & safety, and nursery policies at all times
• Supporting children’s wellbeing and development in line with the Curriculum for Excellence and Realising the Ambition guidance

What We’re Looking For

For the Qualified Nursery Practitioner Role

• SVQ Level 3 in Social Services (Children and Young People) or equivalent recognised childcare qualification
• Registration with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC), or willingness to register
• Previous experience working within an early years setting
• Good understanding of child development and wellbeing
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Passionate, reliable, and caring approach

For the Apprentice Role

• A genuine interest in childcare and early years education
• Caring, patient, enthusiastic, and eager to learn
• Good standard of literacy and numeracy
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Commitment to completing apprenticeship training and working towards an SVQ Level 3 qualification
• Desirable Skills & Experience
• Paediatric First Aid qualification
• Knowledge of Curriculum for Excellence and GIRFEC
• Experience with outdoor learning approaches

What We Offer

• Friendly and supportive team environment
• Ongoing training and professional development
• Full apprenticeship training and support (for apprentice role)
• Opportunities for career progression
• Pension scheme
• Staff wellbeing support
• Valuable practical experience in early years childcare

To Apply

If you feel you are a suitable candidate and would like to work for Oban’s 1st Steps Day Nursery, please do not hesitate to apply.

Closing Date: 1st June 2026

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Successful applicants will be subject to PVG checks and reference checks.