Shaunagh Curley
Early Education and Childcare Officer
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About
Experienced childcare professional with over 8 years in early years settings and specialist support services. BA Childhood Practice qualified, with expertise in safeguarding, additional support needs, and child development. Committed to fostering inclusive, nurturing learning environments that enhance outcomes for children and families. Known for strong communication and relationship-building skills in delivering high-quality care and educational experiences.
Experience
Early Education and Childcare Officer - West Dunbartonshire Council
(2023-12)
- Deliver high-quality early learning and childcare in line with CfE, GIRFEC, SHANARRI, and Realising the Ambition
- Support children's learning, development, and wellbeing through play-based approaches
- Build positive relationships with children, families, colleagues, and partner agencies
- Observe, assess, and record children's progress to support individual learning plans
- Create inclusive environments that support all learners, including ASN
- Promote wellbeing, confidence, independence, and social development
- Contribute to planning and evaluation of learning experiences indoors and outdoors
- Ensure safeguarding, health and safety, and child protection procedures are followed
Outdoor Lead - Kelvinside Academy Green Forest Nursery
(2023-02 - 2023-12)
- Led outdoor learning provision supporting holistic child development
- Planned child-led learning experiences aligned with CfE and early years frameworks
- Promoted risk-aware outdoor play to build resilience and confidence
- Developed and maintained safe, engaging outdoor learning environments
- Supported sustainability and nature-based learning experiences
- Worked closely with colleagues to embed outdoor learning across curriculum
- Built strong relationships with parents and carers
- Ensured safeguarding and health & safety compliance
- Qualified in Forest School outdoor learning pedagogy
Youth Activities Counsellor - Disney Cruise Line
(2019-12 - 2023-01)
- Delivered educational and recreational programmes for 200+ children daily
- Supervised children aged 6 months to 17 years across multiple age groups
- Ensured safeguarding, wellbeing, and child protection standards
- Managed secure check-in/check-out procedures
- Worked within a multicultural team of 40+ colleagues
- Hosted large-scale themed events and activities
- Multiple guest commendations and recognition letters
- Awarded "Counsellor of the Month"
Baby Room Leader - Gowanlea Nursery
(2020-02 - 2021-05)
- Led daily operation of baby room and supported team development
- Planned and delivered early years learning experiences
- Maintained learning journals and developmental records
- Built strong parent partnerships through regular communication
- Supported ASN children with external agencies
- Supervised apprentices and supported professional development
Support Worker - Jigsaw Cornerstone
(2019-05 - 2020-06)
- Supported children with ASN including autism, ADHD, and sensory needs
- Delivered 1:1 and group support in community and home settings
- Promoted independence and life skills development
- Maintained records and contributed to care planning
- Provided personal care where required
Nursery Practitioner - Mulberry Bush Nursery
(2017-04 - 2019-12)
- Supported learning using CfE, GIRFEC, SHANARRI, and Pre-Birth to Three frameworks
- Maintained observations, assessments, and learning journals
- Delivered literacy and numeracy through play-based learning
- Built strong relationships with parents and carers
- Supported extracurricular activities including forest school and sports
- Ensured safe and inclusive learning environments
Water Sports Instructor - Chestnut Lake Camp, USA
(2018-08 - 2019-08)
- Delivered water-based activities including kayaking, sailing, and wakeboarding
- Ensured safety of children in open water environments
- Created development plans for skill progression
- Maintained and checked equipment
- Led outdoor and team-building activities
Lifeguard - Chestnut Lake Camp, USA
(2018-08 - 2019-08)
- Monitored safety across pool, lake, and aqua park, preventing incidents
- Performed risk assessments and coordinated emergency response procedures
- Collaborated with American Red Cross lifeguarding team to maintain a safe environment
- Delivered swimming lessons and supervised activities
- Recognised for exceptional performance as a specialty counsellor
Education
BA - Childhood Practice - University of Glasgow (2025)
DipHE - Education and Social Services - University of Strathclyde (2018-01)
HNC - Early Education and Childcare - West College Scotland (2017-01)
