At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead our Forest School and support young learners in outdoor education.
- Company: Join a caring school community dedicated to innovative learning.
- Benefits: Term-time hours, competitive salary, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working options and a supportive environment await you.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives through outdoor learning.
- Qualifications: HLTA qualification and Forest School Level 3 required.
The predicted salary is between 24084 - 27219 £ per year.
We are looking for a caring, committed & adaptable member of staff to join our team in a hybrid position combining an HLTA role with the leadership of our Forest School provision. Following the relocation of our current Forest School Lead, an exciting opportunity has arisen for someone with a passion for outdoor learning to take on & further develop our Forest School provision in KS1.
We are a two-form entry school, with an outstanding EYFS. The Infant and Junior schools are located on two adjoining sites in the heart of the Ottershaw community. The schools have a capacity of 460 pupils, plus an on-site, full-time nursery with capacity for 26 children. We are fortunate to have extensive grounds, including areas already developed for outdoor learning, providing a strong foundation to build & further develop our Forest School provision.
The Good Shepherd Trust is a multi-academy trust serving 24 schools within the Diocese of Guildford across Surrey and Hampshire. Our trust comprises both primary and secondary schools, schools affiliated to the Church of England and others who are not. Our purpose is to grow and maintain a strong network of schools within a highly supportive and sharing network: we know that schools are better when they work together sharing common values and goals.
Opportunities for staff development are a key priority for us - as a member of support staff, as a teacher, as a head teacher or as a local committee member you will have access to wide and varied professional development. We are working hard to become a more diverse organisation - which is key to our commitment “to be better, together, to ensure an ambitious education for every child in every school every day”. We welcome applications from everyone committed to this ethos and would particularly welcome applications from black and minority ethnic candidates, who are currently under-represented in the Group as a whole. We always appoint on merit. We are always open to discussing flexible working options.
Please note that we reserve the right to interview on application should a suitable candidate apply and we have the right to withdraw this advert prior to the closing date. You are therefore strongly encouraged to apply for the role as soon as possible.
We can offer you:
- Term time only working hours (a minimum of 2 days per week, which equates to 12.66 hours per week. 8.25am to 3.15pm)
- A HLTA salary grade of D1 to D6: FTE salary £24,084 to £27,219 pa, depending on experience
- The opportunity to work within a very supportive, friendly environment in this well run and respected school.
The successful applicant will have:
- An HLTA qualification
- A Forest School Level 3 Qualification
- Experience of working with young children of all abilities
- An understanding of the Primary Curriculum
Visits to the school are welcomed and encouraged. Please contact the school office to arrange your visit.
Closing date: Monday 8th June, 2026
Interviews: To be confirmed.
Forest School Lead & HLTA (KS1) – Term-Time Leader in Chertsey employer: Ottershaw Christ Church Church of England Infant School
Join our dedicated team at The Good Shepherd Trust, where we prioritise a supportive and collaborative work culture that fosters professional growth and development. As a Forest School Lead & HLTA, you will enjoy term-time hours, competitive salary, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on young learners in the heart of the Ottershaw community, all while working in extensive outdoor learning environments. We are committed to diversity and inclusivity, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds who share our vision for ambitious education.
Contact Details:
Ottershaw Christ Church Church of England Infant School Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Forest School Lead & HLTA (KS1) – Term-Time Leader in Chertsey
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school and its ethos! Before your interview, take a stroll around the area or even visit the school if you can. This will help you understand their values and how you can fit into their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for outdoor learning! When you chat with them, share your experiences and ideas about Forest School. They want someone who’s excited about developing this provision, so let that enthusiasm shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare some questions! Think about what you’d like to know regarding their approach to education and staff development. This shows you’re genuinely interested and ready to engage with their community.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re all about making the process as smooth as possible for you.
We think you need these skills to ace Forest School Lead & HLTA (KS1) – Term-Time Leader in Chertsey
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Outdoor Learning:When writing your application, let your love for outdoor learning shine through! Share any experiences you've had in similar roles or activities that highlight your commitment to nurturing children's connection with nature.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Forest School Lead & HLTA role. Use keywords from the job description and demonstrate how your skills and experiences align with what we're looking for.
Highlight Your Qualifications:Don’t forget to mention your HLTA qualification and Forest School Level 3 Qualification prominently. These are key to the role, so make sure they stand out in your application!
Apply Early!:We encourage you to apply as soon as possible since we might interview suitable candidates on a rolling basis. Head over to our website to submit your application and take the first step towards joining our fantastic team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ottershaw Christ Church Church of England Infant School
✨Know Your Forest School Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Forest School principles and practices. Be ready to discuss how you can enhance outdoor learning for KS1 children, and think of specific examples from your experience that demonstrate your passion for this approach.
✨Show Your Caring Side
As a Forest School Lead, you'll need to show that you genuinely care about the children's development. Prepare to share anecdotes that highlight your commitment to nurturing young learners and adapting to their needs, especially in an outdoor setting.
✨Understand the Community
Familiarise yourself with the Ottershaw community and the school's ethos. Being able to connect your vision for the Forest School with the values of the Good Shepherd Trust will show that you're not just looking for a job, but that you want to be part of their mission.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask during the interview. This could be about the school's current Forest School initiatives or how they support staff development. It shows you're engaged and genuinely interested in contributing to their team.
