Pauline Morin

After qualifying in Early Years Education, I secured my first role at Dollar Nursery School, where I gained valuable experience working across a range of age groups, including the baby room, 2-year-old room, and the 3–5 room. Working within these different stages of early childhood development allowed me to broaden my knowledge and understanding of children’s individual needs, learning styles, and developmental milestones.

This role helped me develop strong communication and teamwork skills while building confidence in planning age-appropriate activities, supporting children’s emotional wellbeing, and creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment. By working with children of varying ages, I gained a deeper understanding of the Early Years framework and strengthened my ability to adapt my approach to support each child’s development effectively.

• Enforced safety rules and other policies to protect employees and minimise company liability.
• Implemented merchandising plans to drive profitability, collaborating with visual merchandising team to develop strategy.
• Developing employees through outstanding mentoring, coaching and teaching skills.
• Conducting performance reviews to organise training and development for staff.
• Promoted high customer satisfaction by resolving problems with knowledgeable and friendly service.
• Supported shrinkage and safety awareness, reviewed sales`, identified trends and prepared reports for management.
• In charge of opening and closing the store making sure both the colleagues and customers are kept safe.

I completed my HNC in Childhood Practice at Forth Valley College with an A grade. During my course I gained an in-depth understanding of child development, health and well-being, play and learning, inclusive practice, and professional standards in early childhood education. During my studies, I undertook placements in Primary One at Craig Bank Primary School and St. Serf's Nursery in the Early Learning Centre (ELC). At Craig Bank Primary School, I assisted in planning and delivering educational activities, supported individual learning, conducted observations and assessments, and collaborated with teachers and parents. At St. Serf's Nursery, I developed and implemented play-based learning activities, fostered a positive and inclusive environment, and worked with staff to create a safe, nurturing space for young learners. Throughout these placements, I engaged in regular professional development to continually enhance my skills and knowledge in early childhood education.