Do you believe that childhood should be filled with muddy puddles, campfires, tree climbing, bug hunting, den building and endless opportunities for adventure?
We are looking for an enthusiastic, passionate and dedicated Forest School Practitioner to join our nurturing team and help us expand our established outdoor learning curriculum across all age groups within our setting.
Working alongside our two experienced Forest School Leaders, you will play a key role in developing exciting outdoor experiences that inspire curiosity, creativity, resilience and a lifelong connection with the natural world. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who is passionate about child-led learning and wants to help shape a rich outdoor learning culture throughout the nursery.
About the Role
Outdoor learning is at the heart of our ethos. Our children benefit from dedicated Forest School sessions within our fields and natural learning areas, but we are continually striving to extend the opportunities for children to learn, explore and thrive outdoors every day.
As our Forest School Practitioner, you will:
- Support our established Forest School Leaders in delivering high-quality Forest School sessions across the nursery.
- Help develop and expand our outdoor learning provision for children of all ages.
- Embed Forest School principles and nature-based learning throughout our garden and outdoor environments.
- Create inspiring opportunities for children to take appropriate risks, solve problems, explore their interests and develop confidence.
- Plan and deliver engaging, child-led experiences that respond to children's interests, fascinations and developmental needs.
- Support children to develop a strong connection with nature through exploration, discovery and adventure.
- Encourage learning through activities such as den building, fire lighting, outdoor cooking, tool use, nature crafts, wildlife exploration and environmental stewardship.
- Observe and document children's learning in meaningful ways that celebrate their achievements and make learning visible to children and families.
- Work collaboratively with the wider nursery team to promote a whole-setting approach to outdoor learning.
- Develop opportunities for families to engage with our outdoor learning programme through workshops, stay-and-play sessions, family Forest School events and community projects.
- Help maintain safe, stimulating and inclusive outdoor learning environments.
We are seeking someone who:
- Is passionate about outdoor learning and the benefits it brings to children's development and wellbeing.
- Loves being outdoors in all weathers and embraces muddy boots, rainy-day adventures and campfire cooking.
- Places children at the centre of their practice and values child-led learning.
- Builds positive and respectful relationships with children, families and colleagues.
- Has a strong understanding of child development and early years practice.
- Is creative, enthusiastic and able to inspire a sense of wonder and curiosity.
- Has excellent communication and teamwork skills.
- Holds a Level 3 qualification in Forest School, Outdoor Learning or a relevant Early Years qualification, or is willing to undertake training.
- Has experience working with young children and a genuine commitment to providing exceptional learning experiences.
Why Join Us?
- Be part of a supportive and passionate team that values outdoor learning.
- Help shape and grow an ambitious Forest School programme.
- Work in beautiful outdoor spaces where every day is different.
- Enjoy opportunities for professional development and training.
- Make a lasting difference to children's confidence, wellbeing, resilience and love of learning.
If you are ready to inspire the next generation of explorers, adventurers and nature lovers, we would love to hear from you.
Please submit your CV along with a cover letter explaining why you would be an asset to our team and what outdoor learning means to you.
If you would like an informal conversation about the role, please contact us and a member of our team will be happy to chat with you.
Job Types: Permanent, Part-time, Full-time
Pay: £13.40-£14.75 per hour
Benefits:
- Childcare
- Company events
- Employee discount
- On-site parking
Experience:
- Early childhood education: 1 year (preferred)
Work Location: In person
