At a Glance
- Tasks: Inspire primary-age children through engaging Forest School sessions and creative learning experiences.
- Company: Join a top-rated primary academy committed to excellence and student wellbeing.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse community that values collaboration and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while nurturing their love for the outdoors.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and Maths, HLTA qualification, and experience in delivering Forest School sessions.
The predicted salary is between 27354 - 28575 £ per year.
Are you the right candidate for this opportunity? Make sure to read the full description below.
About Us
We are a 3 form entry primary school from Reception to Year 6, which also includes a 52 place Nursery. Harris Primary Academy Chafford Hundred (HPACH) is a successful academy that was judged outstanding in every category in our March 2025 Ofsted inspection. We work very closely together and share the very best practice and leadership knowledge and capacity to make the education we offer outstanding. Our shared belief is that children thrive when they feel consistently happy and safe at school and our commitment to excellence is encapsulated in our vision statement: "Excellence, Every child, Every day." Our Core values of: Community, Resilience, Respect, Responsibility and Kindness underpin everything that happens at Harris Primary Academy Chafford Hundred.
Summary
We are seeking an enthusiastic and skilled Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) Forest School. We are particularly interested in candidates who bring a specialism in Forest School to enriching our curriculum and inspiring pupils through creative and engaging learning experiences. The actual salary for this role will be £27,354.43-£28,575.22 (38 weeks per year, 37.5 hours per week). We will also consider applications for four days per week (actual salary £21,883.54-£22,860.18).
Main Areas of Responsibility
- Teaching primary-age children, including those with SEN, the Forest School curriculum.
- Planning, preparing, delivering and assessing a range of CPD lessons, PPA cover, extra-curricular club sessions and other related programmes, all designed to enhance the school’s Forest School Provision.
- Ensuring all equipment associated with the Forest School session is correctly set up, maintained, stored and returned on completion of the Forest School session.
- Establishing constructive relationships and communicating with external agencies as required.
- Leading agreed enrichment activities.
Qualifications & Experience
- GCSE (or equivalent) in English and Maths – Grade C or above.
- HLTA qualification.
- Experience of delivering Forest School sessions to young people aged between 5 and 11 in a school environment.
- Knowledge of the Level 3 Forest School Qualification and ability to deliver the Forest School curriculum throughout.
- The ability to encourage and inspire young people through the Forest School provision.
Professional Development & Benefits
Our people are at the heart of our success. We have developed a strong culture of collaboration and best practice, with professional development and career planning at its centre. We invest in our staff with support, coaching, mentoring, and a wide range of top-quality training programmes delivered at every level. In addition to the opportunities for career development and progression, we also offer a competitive rewards and benefits package.
Safeguarding Notice
The Harris Federation and all our academies are committed to ensuring the highest levels of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and we expect all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All offers of employment are subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, references, an online search, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check will be completed.
Equal Opportunities
The Harris Federation is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates. We value the diversity of our staff and students, and everyone at the Harris Federation is equally valued and respected.
Next Steps
If you have any questions about this opportunity, please send us an email, or call to arrange a conversation. Before applying, please download the Job Pack for full details on the job responsibilities and person specification. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible as we may interview and offer to a candidate before the closing date.
Forest School HLTA in Witham employer: Harris Federation
Harris Primary Academy Chafford Hundred is an outstanding primary school that prioritises the happiness and safety of its students, fostering a vibrant and inclusive learning environment. As an employer, we are dedicated to the professional growth of our staff, offering extensive training, mentoring, and a competitive benefits package, including a Performance and Loyalty Bonus and a Wellbeing Cash Plan. Join us in inspiring young learners through innovative Forest School sessions while being part of a supportive community that values collaboration and excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Forest School HLTA in Witham
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Harris Primary Academy Chafford Hundred and understand their values and mission. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff members on LinkedIn or at local education events. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you when you apply through our website.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by thinking about how you can bring the Forest School curriculum to life. Have some creative ideas ready to share that align with the school's commitment to excellence and community values.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Forest School HLTA in Witham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Pack:Before you start your application, make sure to download and read the Job Pack. It’s packed with all the details about the role and what we’re looking for, which will help you tailor your application to stand out.
Show Your Passion for Forest School:We want to see your enthusiasm for the Forest School curriculum! Share any relevant experiences or ideas you have that demonstrate how you can inspire our pupils through creative and engaging learning experiences.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications:Don’t forget to mention your qualifications, especially your HLTA status and any experience you have with delivering Forest School sessions. This is key for us to see how you fit into our team and contribute to our mission.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application through our careers website before the closing date. It’s the only way we accept applications, and it ensures your application gets to us directly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Harris Federation
✨Know Your Forest School Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the Forest School curriculum. Be ready to discuss how you can inspire and engage primary-age children through creative learning experiences. Think about specific activities you've led in the past and how they align with the school's values.
✨Showcase Your Values
The school places a strong emphasis on community, resilience, respect, responsibility, and kindness. Prepare examples from your experience that demonstrate how you embody these values in your teaching practice. This will show that you're not just a fit for the role, but also for the school's culture.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the school's approach to Forest School and how they integrate it into their curriculum. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if it's the right environment for you.
✨Be Ready to Discuss SEN Experience
Since you'll be working with children with special educational needs, be prepared to share your experiences and strategies for supporting diverse learners. Highlight any specific training or techniques you've used to ensure all children thrive in your sessions.
