Senior Early Years Practitioner (3–5 Room)

Location: Pine Trees Nursery, Prestwick

Hours: Full-time

Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience and qualifications

About Us

We are a large, busy, family-run private nursery committed to providing high-quality early learning and childcare in a warm, nurturing, and professional environment. Our children are at the heart of everything we do, and we pride ourselves on creating a positive culture where children, families, and staff can thrive.

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Senior Early Years Practitioner to join our team and take a leading role within our 3–5 playroom. This is an excellent opportunity for a confident practitioner who is passionate about early years education, committed to delivering outstanding experiences for children, and capable of leading and supporting a large team of practitioners.

The Role

As Senior Early Years Practitioner, you will support the day-to-day management of a busy 3–5 room, ensuring high standards of care, learning, and development are consistently maintained. You will lead by example, mentor colleagues, and work collaboratively with management to deliver a high-quality curriculum that meets the needs of all children.

The successful candidate will be professional, nurturing, organised, and confident in managing staff, while building positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and support a large team of Early Years Practitioners within the 3–5 playroom and outdoor spaces.
• Ensure the delivery of high-quality learning experiences in line with the Curriculum for Excellence, Realising the Ambition, and relevant national guidance.
• Plan, implement, and evaluate engaging learning opportunities that support children's development and individual interests.
• Monitor children's progress and ensure observations, assessments, and learning records are completed to a high standard.
• Promote a nurturing, inclusive, and stimulating environment where all children feel valued and supported.
• Support staff development through coaching, mentoring, and role modelling best practice.
• Contribute to staff supervision, team meetings, and quality improvement initiatives.
• Build strong partnerships with parents and carers, maintaining effective communication regarding children's progress and wellbeing.
• Ensure all safeguarding, health and safety, and nursery policies and procedures are followed at all times.
• Support management in maintaining compliance with Care Inspectorate requirements and quality assurance processes.
• Act as a key worker for a group of children and provide outstanding care and support.

Essential Requirements

• SVQ Social Services (Children and Young People) at SCQF Level 9 (or equivalent), or currently working towards this qualification.
• Significant experience working within an early years setting, particularly with children aged 3–5 years.
• Strong knowledge and experience of delivering the Curriculum for Excellence and planning quality learning experiences.
• Experience leading, motivating, and supporting a team of practitioners.
• Excellent communication, organisational, and interpersonal skills.
• Sound understanding of child development and child protection responsibilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and busy nursery environment.
• Registration with the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) or eligibility to register.

Desirable Requirements

• Previous experience in a senior or room leader role.
• Experience supporting quality improvement and inspection processes.
• First Aid qualification and relevant CPD training.
• Knowledge of additional support needs and inclusive practice.

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for someone who:

• Is passionate about providing outstanding early years experiences.
• Leads with confidence, professionalism, and integrity.
• Is nurturing, approachable, and child-centred in their practice.
• Can inspire and motivate a large team to achieve high standards.
• Builds positive and trusting relationships with children, families, and colleagues.
• Is committed to continuous professional development and reflective practice.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary.
• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
• Support towards further qualifications where applicable.
• A welcoming and supportive family-run environment.
• Opportunities to contribute to the ongoing growth and development of the nursery.
• Company pension scheme and other staff benefits.

If you are an experienced early years professional ready to take the next step in your career and make a positive impact within a thriving nursery setting, we would love to hear from you.