Job Description

Qualified Early Years Practitioner (Forest School Enthusiast)

Position:

Qualified Early Years Practitioner

Setting:

First Nursery, Peebles

Salary:

13.15 to 14.00 P/Hour, based on qualifications and experience

Contract:

Full-Time / Permanent 40 Hours P/Week

About Us:

Nestled in the beautiful Scottish Borders town of Peebles, First Nursery is a warm, nurturing, and forward-thinking setting. We believe in providing children with a childhood rich in adventure, discovery, and connection to the natural world. Our unique location allows us to integrate the principles of Forest School and outdoor learning into the heart of our daily practice, fostering resilient, confident, and curious learners.

The Role:

We are seeking a passionate and fully qualified Nursery Practitioner to join our dedicated team. You will play a key role in planning and delivering high-quality, child-led early years education, both indoors and within our incredible local woodland environments. A genuine love for the outdoors and a commitment to the Forest School philosophy will be great.

Key Responsibilities:

Deliver the Curriculum for Excellence (Early Level) in an engaging, play-based manner.

Plan, lead, and evaluate inspiring outdoor Forest School sessions, embracing all weathers!

Ensure the health, safety, and wellbeing of every child in your care at all times.

Build nurturing and respectful relationships with children, families, and colleagues.

Contribute to observation, assessment, and documentation of children's learning journeys.

Help maintain a stimulating, inclusive, and safe indoor and outdoor learning environment.

Essential Requirements:

A recognised Scottish Early Years Qualification (as per SSSC requirements) - e.g., HNC Childhood Practice, SVQ Social Services (Children & Young People) SCQF Level 7, or equivalent.

Current SSSC registration or commitment to register immediately.

A proven passion for outdoor learning and Forest School principles. Previous Forest School training or a willingness to undergo training is highly desirable.

An in-depth knowledge of child development and the Scottish curriculum.

A positive, proactive, and resilient attitude, with a genuine love for working with young children.

Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

A commitment to inclusion and equality.

Desirable Attributes:

Forest School Leader or Practitioner qualification.

Paediatric First Aid certification (or willingness to train).

Experience in a similar outdoor-focused setting.

What We Offer:

The opportunity to work in a stunning location with direct access to fantastic outdoor spaces.

A supportive, collaborative, and enthusiastic team environment.

Continued Professional Development (CPD).

A chance to make a real difference in children's lives through nature-based play.

Competitive terms and conditions.

How to Apply:

If you are a qualified practitioner with a spirit of adventure and a belief in the power of mud, puddles, and pine cones, we would love to hear from you.

Please send your CV and a covering letter explaining your passion for early years education to:

info@firstnurserypeebles.com

First Nursery is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. An enhanced PVG check is required for this post.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 13.15-14.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

Childcare Company events Company pension Employee discount Free parking On-site parking Sick pay
Work Location: In person