At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead outdoor learning and support young children in a nurturing environment.
- Company: Join a respected school within a supportive multi-academy trust.
- Benefits: Term-time hours, competitive salary, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working options and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives through innovative Forest School activities.
- 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.
Higher Level Teaching Assistant & Forest School Lead in Chertsey employer: Ottershaw Christ Church Church of England Infant School
Join a nurturing and dynamic team at our two-form entry school in the heart of Ottershaw, where your passion for outdoor learning will thrive as you lead our Forest School provision. We prioritise professional development and offer a supportive work culture that values diversity and collaboration, ensuring every staff member can grow and contribute to our mission of providing an ambitious education for every child. With term-time only hours and a friendly environment, this role is perfect for those seeking meaningful employment in a well-respected institution.
Contact Details:
Ottershaw Christ Church Church of England Infant School Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Higher Level Teaching Assistant & Forest School Lead in Chertsey
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, take a stroll around the area and check out the school's vibe. Familiarise yourself with their Forest School provision and think about how you can contribute to it. This shows you're genuinely interested and ready to jump in!
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Grab a friend or family member and do a mock interview. Focus on questions related to outdoor learning and working with young children. This will help you feel more confident and articulate during the real deal.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! When you talk about your experience, make sure to highlight your love for outdoor learning and how it benefits children. Share specific examples of how you've engaged kids in nature-based activities – this will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your application as soon as possible, so don’t wait around. The sooner you apply, the better your chances of landing that interview. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
We think you need these skills to ace Higher Level Teaching Assistant & Forest School Lead in Chertsey
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Outdoor Learning:Make sure to highlight your enthusiasm for outdoor education in your application. We want to see how you can bring that passion to our Forest School provision and inspire the kids!
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences that match the HLTA role and Forest School Lead position. We love seeing candidates who really understand what we’re about.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Be sure to showcase any relevant experience you have working with young children, especially in outdoor settings. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so let us know what you’ve done before!
Apply Early!:We might interview on application, so don’t wait until the last minute to apply! Get your application in through our website as soon as you can to ensure you don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ottershaw Christ Church Church of England Infant School
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re familiar with the Primary Curriculum and the principles of Forest School. Brush up on your HLTA qualification details and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with the role. This shows you’re not just interested, but genuinely knowledgeable.
✨Show Your Passion for Outdoor Learning
Since this role combines teaching with leading outdoor activities, share specific examples of how you've engaged children in outdoor learning before. Talk about any creative ideas you have for developing the Forest School provision further.
✨Emphasise Adaptability and Teamwork
This position requires a caring and adaptable approach. Be prepared to discuss times when you’ve had to adjust your teaching style or collaborate with others. Highlight your ability to work within a team and contribute to a supportive environment.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions that show your interest in the school’s ethos and development opportunities. Asking about their vision for the Forest School or how they support staff development can demonstrate your commitment to being part of their community.
