Forest School Leader – Inspire Young Minds in the Great Outdoors
Location: Swanbourne
Part Time or Full Time
Are you passionate about outdoor learning and ready to lead unforgettable experiences in nature? Ashbourne Day Nurseries is looking for a dedicated and enthusiastic Forest School Leader to join our growing team and bring the magic of the outdoors to life for the children in our care.
About Us
At Ashbourne Day Nurseries, we believe childhood should be filled with curiosity, discovery, and wonder — and what better classroom than the great outdoors? Since opening our first nursery in 2008, we’ve grown into a family of unique settings across the country.
We follow the EYFS curriculum while embracing the value of play, creativity, and real-world experiences — and our Forest School sessions play a key part in that. Our children are encouraged to take supported risks, develop confidence, and connect with nature, all while having heaps of muddy fun!
Your Role as Forest School Leader
As Forest School Leader, you’ll lead engaging outdoor sessions that support each child’s physical, emotional, and social development through hands-on learning in nature. You’ll work closely with our nursery teams to integrate Forest School principles into our wider curriculum and help nurture a love for the natural world in every child.
This is a fantastic opportunity for a qualified Forest School Leader who’s excited to make a real impact and share their passion for outdoor learning with the next generation.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Planning and delivering inspiring Forest School sessions for children aged 2–5
- Encouraging exploration, curiosity, and confidence through outdoor play and learning
- Supporting children in taking appropriate risks and developing resilience
- Promoting environmental awareness and care for the natural world
- Working collaboratively with nursery staff to embed outdoor learning into daily routines
- Ensuring high standards of safety and wellbeing during all outdoor activities
- Maintaining and developing our Forest School site and resources
About You
- You hold a recognised Forest School Leader qualification
- You have experience delivering Forest School or outdoor learning sessions with young children
- You’re passionate about nature-based education and child-led learning
- You’re confident, creative, and able to adapt activities to suit different needs and interests
- You have a solid understanding of the EYFS framework and how it links to Forest School values
- You’re proactive, safety-conscious, and love getting stuck in – whatever the weather!
What We Offer
- A competitive salary and benefits package
- A supportive and welcoming team environment
- Opportunities to develop your skills and grow your career within the Ashbourne family
- Access to beautiful outdoor spaces and natural woodland environments
- Ongoing training and professional development in outdoor and early years education
- The chance to make a real difference every day – and have fun doing it!
Ready to Take Learning Outside?
If you're ready to lead with passion and bring outdoor education to life for young children, we’d love to hear from you!
Ashbourne Day Nurseries is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All roles are subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £13.50 per hour
Benefits:
- Additional leave
- Childcare
- Company pension
- Employee discount
Application question(s):
- Do you have a level 3 in Childcare and education?
- Do you have experience or a qualification in Forest Schooling?
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
