At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting outdoor learning experiences and develop a unique Forest School curriculum.
- Company: Manor Park Primary School and Nursery, a supportive and ambitious educational environment.
- Benefits: Enthusiastic pupils, exceptional outdoor facilities, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team and shape the future of outdoor education.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives through creative outdoor learning.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Forest School Leader qualification and primary teaching experience required.
The predicted salary is between 31650 - 43607 £ per year.
About this Role
Manor Park Primary School and Nursery is seeking an enthusiastic, imaginative and highly skilled Forest School Lead to join our welcoming and ambitious team.
This is an exciting opportunity for an individual with a passion for outdoor learning to lead and develop high-quality Forest School provision across our school.
Our pupils benefit from exceptional outdoor spaces, including woodland, allotments, climbing and play areas, a beach area, wildlife spaces and a wide range of outdoor-learning resources.
We are proud to be school that embraces the OPAL ethos and believe that outdoor learning can develop pupils’ confidence, curiosity, resilience, independence and sense of belonging.
The successful candidate will combine excellent relationships with children with leadership of our Forest School provision.
The post is advertised at 0.8 FTE.
For an exceptional candidate, a full-time role may be available through extending the Forest School provision and/or a wider agreed contribution to school life.
This role is temporary until 31st August 2027 however may be opportunity to extend.
About the role
You will
- Teach a primary class to a high standard, creating an inclusive, ambitious and engaging learning environment.
- Plan and lead safe, purposeful and progressive Forest School experiences for pupils across the school.
- Develop a coherent Forest School curriculum that supports personal development, well‑being, environmental understanding, practical skills and learning across the curriculum.
- Work closely with teachers to ensure that outdoor learning complements curriculum priorities and meets the needs of all pupils.
- Lead risk assessment, site checks, safe working procedures and resource organisation for Forest School activity.
- Support colleagues to develop confidence in using outdoor learning effectively and safely.
- Contribute to the school’s wider enrichment, cultural‑capital and personal‑development offer.
- Build positive relationships with pupils, families, staff, volunteers and relevant community partners.
- Model the school’s values of respect, pride, responsibility, reflection and resilience.
We are looking for someone who
- Holds a recognised Level 3 Forest School Leader qualification.
- Has successful primary teaching experience.
- Has experience of planning and leading high‑quality outdoor learning.
- Understands how outdoor provision can support inclusion, well‑being, communication, language and personal development.
- Is confident in risk assessment, safeguarding and safe management of outdoor environments.
- Is creative, organised, practical and able to inspire pupils and colleagues.
- Has high expectations for every pupil, including pupils with SEND, disadvantaged pupils and those who need additional pastoral support.
- Is committed to ongoing professional development and collaborative working.
We can offer
- Enthusiastic, respectful and curious pupils.
- Exceptional outdoor facilities and strong commitment to outdoor play and learning.
- A supportive and skilled staff team.
- A school that values creativity, professional development and new ideas.
- Support from Cheshire Academies Trust and opportunities to work collaboratively across a wider network of schools.
- A genuine opportunity to shape and grow a distinctive Forest School offer.
Visits to the school are warmly encouraged. To arrange a visit please contact admin@manorpark. cheshire. sch. uk
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Forest School Lead in Knutsford employer: Manor Park Primary School and Nursery
Manor Park Primary School and Nursery is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant work culture centred around outdoor learning and personal development. With access to outstanding facilities and a supportive team, employees are encouraged to innovate and grow professionally while making a meaningful impact on students' lives. The school’s commitment to collaboration and creativity ensures that staff can thrive in their roles, contributing to a unique educational experience for all pupils.
Contact Details:
Manor Park Primary School and Nursery Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Forest School Lead in Knutsford
✨Get Hands-On in Local Gardens
Dive into volunteer work at local gardens or community farms. This not only gives you practical experience but also helps you build connections in the horticulture community. You'd be surprised at how many temporary roles pop up through local networks!
✨Visit Local Plant Shows or Horticultural Events
Check out seasonal plant shows or horticultural fairs in your area. These events are fantastic for networking and learning about temporary positions that may not be advertised online. Chat with vendors and attendees — you never know who might know of a gig at places like Manor Park Primary School and Nursery!
✨Tap into the Agriculture Community
Join online forums or social media groups dedicated to horticulture. Engaging in discussions or asking about temp roles can lead to insider tips and opportunities. Plus, it showcases your passion for the field, which is always a bonus!
✨Make Your Intentions Clear on Your CV
In your CV, highlight your availability for temporary positions and any hands-on experience you have. Tailor your approach to companies like Manor Park Primary School and Nursery, making sure they know you're keen and ready to jump in as soon as they need someone. And don't forget to apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Forest School Lead in Knutsford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Horticultural Knowledge:Make sure to showcase any relevant horticulture experience you have. Mention specific plants, gardening techniques, or landscaping projects you've worked on. If you have any certificates in horticulture or botany, include those too – they'll definitely catch our eye!
Show You're Flexible and Ready to Learn:Since this is a temporary role, we want to know you're adaptable and eager to soak up new experiences. In your cover letter, express your willingness to learn and take on different tasks that may come up. Share any previous temporary roles and what you gained from them!
Include Practical Experience:In horticulture, hands-on experience matters a lot. If you’ve volunteered at a community garden or helped maintain private gardens, mention these gigs! Tailor your CV to include any practical work that demonstrates your skills in plant care, garden layout design, or pest management.
Use Clear, Concise Language:When applying for a temporary role, keep your application straightforward. Avoid jargon and focus on the essential skills you bring to the table. We want to understand your experience quickly, so make every word count. Remember, we love clear communication at Manor Park Primary School and Nursery!
How to prepare for a job interview at Manor Park Primary School and Nursery
✨Get to Grips with Plant Knowledge
In the world of horticulture, having a solid grasp of plant types, care techniques, and pest management is essential. Brush up on your understanding of the plants relevant to Manor Park Primary School and Nursery—it might just impress them if you can chat about local species or seasonal challenges!
✨Show Off Your Practical Skills
Since you’re applying for a temporary role, they’ll want to see that you’re ready to hit the ground running. Be prepared to discuss any hands-on experience you have with gardening tools, techniques, and maintenance tasks. If you've got a portfolio of your gardening projects or any past experiences, don't hesitate to share!
✨Prepare for Team Dynamics
Much of horticulture works in teams, especially during busy seasons. Anticipate questions about your experience working collaboratively. Think of examples of how you’ve contributed to team efforts in past gardening projects or seasonal work—showing your team spirit is key!
✨Express Your Flexibility and Learning Mindset
Given that this is a temporary position, make sure you convey your eagerness to learn and adapt quickly. Employers like Manor Park Primary School and Nursery will appreciate your willingness to tackle various tasks, from planting to weeding, and how you can fit in wherever needed!
