Join Our Founding Team – Little Explorers Nursery

We are delighted and extremely excited to be recruiting our very first staff team for Little Explorers, Strathallan School’s brand-new nursery. This is a rare and rewarding opportunity to be part of something special from the outset.

We are seeking up to four highly motivated Early Years professionals (Nursery Practitioners and a Play Assistant) who are ready to embrace both the challenge and the joy of establishing a new nursery from scratch, working alongside our inspiring newly appointed Nursery Manager.

Opening within the outstanding grounds of Strathallan School, Little Explorers will provide high quality early learning and care for children aged 3 to 5 years. As a member of the founding team, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the ethos and daily life of the nursery, helping to embed exceptional early years practice within the values, traditions and high standards of one of Scotland’s leading independent schools.

This is a fantastic opportunity for individuals who are enthusiastic, creative and passionate about early years education, and who are excited by the prospect of helping to create a setting where children and staff can flourish together.

You will help create a warm, nurturing and stimulating environment, working closely with colleagues to plan and deliver rich, play based learning experiences that support every child’s learning and development.

A defining feature of Little Explorers will be its strong outdoor learning ethos. Children will be encouraged to spend significant time outdoors, enjoying purposeful, nature rich experiences that foster curiosity, confidence and wellbeing. Our team will be central to developing engaging, safe and inspiring indoor and outdoor spaces that invite exploration and discovery every day.

In return, Strathallan School offers the chance to be part of an exciting new chapter within a supportive and values driven community. This role will particularly suit professionals who take pride in their practice, thrive in a collaborative environment, and are energised by the opportunity to help shape a nursery’s vision.

About You

You are an enthusiastic, motivated early years professional who is excited by the chance to help build something truly special from day one.

You will:

• Be registered with the SSSC (or be willing to register on appointment)
• Hold a relevant early years qualification (SVQ Level 3, HNC or equivalent)
• Have experience working with children aged 3-5, delivering high‑quality, play‑based learning
• Feel confident and energised delivering purposeful, meaningful outdoor learning
• Thrive as a positive, collaborative team player, bringing warmth, creativity and professionalism to everything you do
• Have a genuine passion for early years education, child‑led learning and helping children flourish through curiosity, exploration and play

Most importantly, you will be excited by the opportunity to help shape the culture, values and daily life of a brand‑new nursery - and to grow alongside it.

Terms & Conditions

Remuneration

The salary for this role is £35,193 - £37,689 per annum.

Hours of Work

This is a  full-time role, working 40 hours per week, although part‑time working may be considered for the right candidate.

Pension Scheme

Access to a contributory pension scheme with a 4% employer contribution.

Benefits

In addition to joining an exciting new nursery, you’ll have access to:

• Free on‑site parking
• Free lunch during term time
• Staff discount in the Art Café
• Retail discounts and Blue Light Card eligibility
• Death‑in‑service cover
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• A range of Wellbeing Support 
•  Occupational sick pay
• Competitive annual leave

Applicant Information

Any offer of employment will be subject to Safer Recruitment checks, including:

• Disclosure Scotland PVG clearance
• Two satisfactory professional references
• Proof of Right to Work in the UK

If you feel inspired by the opportunity to help shape Little Explorers Nursery and want to be part of its founding story, please submit your application online by Sunday 31st May 2026. Interviews will be arranged shortly after the closing date.

The full job description and person specification can be found in the attached role brief. 

For an informal conversation or any questions, please contact hr@strathallan.co.uk. 

Downloads

• Nursery Practitioner - Role Brief PDF Document