We are looking for a childcare qualified, reliable team member to work within a busy and vibrant Family Centre. Providing a safe, stimulating, nurturing and inclusive environment for all the children, young people and families using our services.
Duties – Contribute as part of a team to the provision of a quality early learning and childcare service for children aged years (Playgroup and Out of School Care) and their families and work to the principles of the Health & Social Care Standards, Getting it Right for Every Child, Realising the Ambition and abide by the Code of Practice for Social Service Workers.
Job Title Childcare Practitioner
Qualification Requirements
Qualification relevant to the job role SVQ Social Services (Children & Young People) SCQF Level 7, HNC Childhood Practice or equivalent.
Hours 25 hours per week
Wage £12.88 per hour
Work Pattern Monday to Friday - weekly shift patterns
Job Purpose:
* To provide high-quality childcare and education for children aged 2 to 12 years in a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment. The Childcare Practitioner will be responsible for planning and implementing a range of activities that support the physical, emotional, social, and intellectual development of children in both a playgroup setting for 2–3-year-olds (term time) and school-aged childcare during term time and holiday periods.
Main Roles and Responsibilities:
Childcare and Education:
* Provide a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive environment for all children.
* Always ensure the safety and well-being of children.
* Plan and deliver engaging and age-appropriate activities that promote development across all areas (physical, emotional, social, and intellectual) - holiday club programmes, educational visits.
* Develop and implement forward plans to ensure a diverse range of play and learning experiences, reflecting national guidelines. Use of large floorbooks as a consultation and planning tool.
* Foster positive relationships with children, encouraging confidence and independence.
Parental and Community Engagement:
* Build and maintain strong relationships with parents and carers, ensuring regular communication regarding their child's progress and needs. Recognise and respect the rights of children and their parents/carers.
* Actively encourage parental involvement in the playgroup and school-aged childcare programmes.
* Respect and maintain confidentiality of information regarding children and families.
Team Collaboration:
* Work collaboratively with other staff members, volunteers, and the Board of Directors in the planning and delivery of childcare services.
* Support, advise, and mentor junior staff, sessional workers, and volunteers.
* Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities.
Programme Planning and Implementation:
* Lead sessions and make informed decisions regarding the planning and delivery of activities.
* Ensure the development of individual care and education plans for children, including Personal Plans, Progress Reports and observational records.
* Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of activities and programs, adapting as necessary to meet the needs of all children – regular review of resources and play area set ups.
Operational Responsibilities:
* Ensure the proper use and maintenance of facilities, equipment, and resources.
* Prepare and serve snacks, adhering to health and safety regulations.
* Prepare weekly shopping lists.
* Participate in both indoor and outdoor work, including outdoor play, school collections and outings. Ensuring appropriate supervision and safety.
Regulatory Compliance:
* Adhere to all organisational policies and procedures, including those related to child protection and safeguarding.
* Complete daily/weekly/monthly health & safety checks and risk assessments.
* Maintain accurate records, such as daily registers, fire drills, and accident reports/incident reports, medication forms.
* Comply with all Scottish Government legislation and guidelines set by the Care Inspectorate.
Personal Development:
* Engage in ongoing professional development and reflective practice – self evaluations, supervisions and appraisals.
* Keep abreast of new developments in early learning and care and school aged childcare.
* Maintain an up-to-date SSSC post-registration training and learning record.
Person Specification:
* Reliable, punctual, and dedicated.
* Experience working with children in a childcare setting.
* Strong understanding of children's developmental needs.
* Excellent team-working and communication skills.
* Adaptable and flexible approach to work.
* Relevant qualification: SVQ Social Services (Children & Young People) SCQF Level 7, HNC Childhood Practice, or equivalent.
Accountability:
* Accountable to the Childcare Co-ordinator and VFC Manager.
* Undertake duties as delegated by the Childcare Co-ordinator and VFC Manager.
* Implement organisational policies and procedures.
* Participate in all relevant training opportunities.
Additional Information:
* Take part in all fundraising activities as set out by the Management team and Board of Directors.
* Appropriate uniform and training will be provided.
* The Childcare Practitioner may be required to work across different childcare and family services within the organisation.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: £12.88 per hour
Benefits:
* Childcare
* Company events
* Company pension
* Employee discount
* On-site parking
Education:
* Certificate of Higher Education (required)
Experience:
* Childcare: 2 years (required)
Work Location: In person