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: 1 June 2026

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

Oban's 1st Steps Day Nursery

New Jobs

Nursery Practitioner and Nursery Practitioner Apprentice