Equity and Excellence Leads
The Scottish Government recently created a new role in ELC to help ensure we close the attainment gap.
Gemma Paterson, Equity and Excellence Lead, Grangemouth
"I get immense job satisfaction seeing the children and staff thrive because of initiatives I’ve helped to implement."
Kyle Izatt, Early Years Practitioner, Fife Council
"I have always been a creative individual and I’m lucky to get many opportunities to use my creativity at work."
Lindsey McKinnon, Early Years Practitioner, Glasgow
"Giving these children positive role models and challenging experiences helps them to develop in all aspects of life."
Nicole and Noah, Apprentices, Inverurie
"When you come into work, they're so excited to see you. It puts a smile on your face."
Eileen McGeoch, Depute-Head of Centre, East Renfrewshire Council
"Seeing a child happy, settled and having fun is the best feeling."
Rachel Allen, Nursery Practitioner, Edinburgh
“I’ve found doing my qualifications whilst working in the nursery a lot easier than studying at a college."
Steven White, Nursery Manager, Perthshire
Steven has big ambitions and hopes to open his own nursery practice over the next five years.
Gavin Burns, Manager Childhood Practice, Midlothians
"It is the type of job you don’t mind getting out of bed in the morning for – in fact I look forward to it."
Jackie Smith, Early Learning and Childcare Practitioner, Inverurie
"I really enjoy working in the nursery. I've done it for 30 odd years now."
Kerri Duncan, Senior Early Years Practitioner, Angus Council
"We create an environment that allows a child to feel safe, secure, valued and trusted."
Lisa Duncan, Early Years Practitioner, Fife Council
"There are so many opportunities for personal and professional development and it is a truly worthwhile career."
Nicola Johnstone, Childcare Practitioner, Inverness
"Lots of my friends told me they thought I was really good with kids and encouraged me to go for it."
Jake Stefanovic, Early Years Support Worker, Bathgate
"There are opportunities to be creative all the time and it is one of the best things about the job."
Katy Pollock, Childminder, Oban
Katy undertakes a range of training, which allows her to continually learn and develop her skills.
Sheree McCorgray, Deputy Manager, Stirling Council
"The most satisfying part of my job may seem obvious, but watching the children develop is unbelievably rewarding."
David Spiden, Early Years Practitioner, Haddington
"There are so many ways childcare can make such a difference to the lives of little ones."
Aysha Nyass, Early Learning and Childcare Apprentice, Perth and Kinross
"Putting my studies into practice at the nursery has really given my confidence the extra boost it needed."
Scott Anderson, trainee ELC Practitioner
"I have now found a career that gives me a sense of satisfaction on a daily basis."
Lauren Martin, Early Years Practitioner, Angus Council
"I love my job and feel it is very rewarding and inspiring."
Kyle Ballingall, Early Learning and Childcare Assistant, Perth and Kinross
"Your influence helps children’s development and they will never cease to surprise and amaze you."
Julia McNeil, Manager of a day care centre, West Lothian
"These past years have been the best part of my working life."
Thomas Cairns, Onslow Drive Day Nursery, Glasgow
"It’s crucial to promote confidence, independence and social skills in young children."
Connor Laurie, Early Learning and Childcare Apprentice, Glasgow
"I’m hoping to go on to work through my SVQ qualifications and get as much experience as possible."