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Join Our Team as a Forest School Lead! Do you love muddy puddles, den building, bug hunting, and watching children discover the magic of nature? We’re looking for an enthusiastic Early Years Forest School Lead to inspire our youngest explorers through exciting outdoor learning experiences. If you believe childhood should include climbing trees, storytelling around a fire circle, and learning through curiosity and play, we’d love to hear from you! Working with children aged 3–5, you’ll lead engaging Forest School sessions that support learning through the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) while helping children grow in confidence, independence, and resilience.
Job Responsibility:
Plan and deliver engaging Forest School sessions for early years children following recognised Forest School principles
Create a safe, stimulating, and inclusive outdoor learning environment
Encourage exploration, child-led learning, and risk-managed play
Adapt activities to meet the developmental needs of individual children
Link Forest School experiences with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework
Support children’s development in communication, physical development, problem-solving, and emotional wellbeing through outdoor learning
Conduct and review risk assessments for outdoor activities and the woodland site
Ensure safe use of tools, natural materials, and equipment when appropriate
Maintain safeguarding and health and safety standards in line with setting policies
Maintain the Forest School area and ensure resources are safe, sustainable, and well organised
Promote respect for the natural environment and sustainable practices
Develop the outdoor learning space to support year-round learning
Work collaboratively with early years staff to embed outdoor learning across the setting
Support and mentor colleagues in delivering outdoor learning activities
Communicate with parents about the benefits of Forest School and children’s experiences
Keep accurate records of sessions, observations, and risk assessments
Ensure compliance with safeguarding, first aid, and outdoor learning policies
Contribute to planning, evaluation, and development of the Forest School programme
Requirements:
Level 3 qualification in Early Years Education or equivalent
Recognised Forest School Leader Level 3 qualification
Experience working with children aged 3–5
Experience planning and delivering outdoor learning sessions
Understanding of safeguarding and child protection procedures
What we offer:
Free childcare for the first month and 52% discount (based on working hours) to support your family
31 days of holiday (inclusive of national bank holidays and the Christmas closure week), plus your birthday off
Access to The National College full of training and courses
Enjoy Perkbox discounts, wellbeing tools, and online medical services
Refer a friend or family for exciting bonuses and celebrate milestones with long-service awards
1 paid day off per year to volunteer and give back to the community