At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting outdoor learning sessions, inspiring children through exploration and nature activities.
- Company: Roe Lee Park Primary School, a vibrant community school with a warm ethos.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and strong community partnerships.
- Other info: Part-time role with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact on children's lives while fostering their love for the natural world.
- Qualifications: Experience in outdoor learning and a passion for inspiring young minds.
The job requirements are detailed below. Where applicable the skills, qualifications and memberships required for this job have also been included.
Job details:
- Roe Lee Park Primary School, Emerald Avenue, Blackburn, BB1 9RP
- Grade/Salary: Grade F, SCP 17-23, £31,022 to £34,434 per annum, pro rata
- Contract Type: Temporary
- Contract Terms: 15 hours, Part Time (12:30pm - 3:30pm)
- Closing Date: Monday, 22nd June 2026
- Required From: Tuesday, 1st September 2026
The governors of Roe Lee Park Primary School & Nursery are seeking to appoint an enthusiastic, committed and experienced Forest School Leader to lead and enhance our outdoor learning provision. We are looking for a practitioner who is passionate about outdoor learning, can inspire children and is committed to inclusion and high-quality provision. Our existing Forest School provision has been developed by a highly skilled practitioner. We are seeking to appoint someone who can continue this work, building on the strengths of the existing provision.
The successful candidate will plan and lead Forest School sessions across all year groups, encouraging exploration, play and supported risk‑taking through activities such as den building, nature crafts, tool use, fire lighting and environmental discovery. Sessions should support pupils’ personal, social and emotional development while fostering curiosity and respect for the natural world.
We can offer you:
- A vibrant community school
- Happy children who are proud of our school
- A warm, welcoming ethos where everyone is valued
- Strong partnerships with parents and the local community
- A strong supportive Governing Body with a clear vision for the future of the school
If you think you can make a positive difference to the children in our school, then we would welcome your application. Please see additional attachments for further information. Visits to the school are encouraged. Please telephone the school office on 01254 56297 to make an appointment.
This school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check and other pre‑employment checks, including an online search.
Forest School Leader employer: Blackburn with Darwen Council
Roe Lee Park Primary School is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant community atmosphere where passionate educators can thrive. With a strong commitment to outdoor learning and personal development, the school fosters a warm and welcoming environment that values every individual. Employees benefit from supportive leadership, strong community ties, and opportunities for professional growth, making it an ideal place for those looking to make a meaningful impact in children's lives.
Contact Details:
Blackburn with Darwen Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Forest School Leader
✨Get Involved with Local Gardening Groups
Join local horticulture clubs or community gardens. It's a fantastic way to meet people in the industry, learn about available part-time opportunities, and get tips on what local businesses like Blackburn with Darwen Council are looking for.
✨Attend Horticulture Fairs and Events
Keep an eye out for gardening fairs, farmers’ markets, or plant festivals in your area. Not only can you learn a lot, but these events often have job boards or local employers looking to hire part-time help.
✨Leverage Social Media for Opportunities
Follow local horticulture accounts on platforms like Instagram and Facebook. There are often postings about part-time jobs that might not make it to traditional job boards, plus you can connect with other enthusiasts who might have the inside scoop on openings at places like Blackburn with Darwen Council.
✨Tap into Your University’s Resources
If you're a student, your university might have links with local horticulture firms. Check out your career services; they might list part-time opportunities with companies like Blackburn with Darwen Council that are specifically looking for students eager to gain experience.
We think you need these skills to ace Forest School Leader
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Green Thumb:When applying for a part-time job in horticulture at Blackburn with Darwen Council, make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have with plants, gardening, or landscape maintenance. If you've got a knack for nurturing plants or knowledge about different species, don’t keep it a secret—let it shine in your CV!
Include Certifications and Courses:If you've completed any horticulture-related certifications or courses, be sure to list them in your application. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you're serious about your passion for plants. If you’ve got any coursework on plant biology or sustainable practices, include that too!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Blackburn with Darwen Council:In your cover letter, make sure to express why you want to work specifically with Blackburn with Darwen Council. Are they known for their beautiful gardens or innovative horticultural practices? Mention these points and how they resonate with your own interests and experiences—this shows genuine enthusiasm and helps you stand out.
Flexibility Matters:Since you're aiming for a part-time role, emphasise your availability in your application. Whether you can work weekends, evenings, or even during peak seasons, make it clear! Flexibility can be a huge plus, so highlight how you can fit into the team at Blackburn with Darwen Council and support their needs.
How to prepare for a job interview at Blackburn with Darwen Council
✨Know Your Plants
As we're diving into horticulture, it’s crucial to brush up on your plant knowledge. Be ready to discuss different species, their care requirements, and maybe even tackle some plant identification questions. Having a few examples of your past gardening experiences or plant projects can really show your passion and expertise!
✨Hands-On Experience Matters
Since this is a part-time gig, your practical skills might be just as important as your theoretical knowledge. Think about any previous jobs, volunteer work, or personal projects related to gardening or landscaping. Highlight those experiences in your answers – showing what you've physically done can leave a strong impression.
✨Seasonal Awareness is Key
In horticulture, understanding the seasons and how they affect plant behaviour is essential. Be prepared to discuss how you would approach gardening tasks at different times of the year, and share your approach to seasonal planting or maintenance strategies – it'll show your practical understanding of the field!
✨Bring Your Tools (and Portfolio!)
If you have a portfolio showcasing your previous work, such as photos of gardens you've designed or maintained, definitely bring it along. For a part-time role, sharing your creative ideas and how you use tools for different tasks can set you apart. It's about showing how you can bring value to Blackburn with Darwen Council with your unique skills and passion!
