At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead outdoor learning sessions and inspire children through nature-based experiences.
- Company: Join an award-winning Forest & Farm School nursery in Southwater.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive team.
- Other info: Collaborative culture focused on creativity and child-led learning.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives while working in beautiful woodland settings.
- Qualifications: Relevant qualifications in Early Years or Forest School and experience in childcare.
The predicted salary is between 29000 - 29000 £ per year.
Imagine spending your working day surrounded by woodland, nature and outdoor adventure rather than four nursery walls. This is an exciting opportunity to join an award‑winning Forest & Farm School nursery in Southwater (RH13), where children learn through exploration, animal encounters, woodland experiences and meaningful connections with the natural world every single day. If you are passionate about outdoor education, Forest School principles and helping children develop confidence, resilience and curiosity through nature‑based learning, this could be the perfect next step in your childcare career.
Employment Type
- Permanent, Full‑Time position within a Nurseries & Early Years childcare setting.
Salary
- £29,000 per annum + benefits
Pay & Benefits
- Competitive salary of £29,000 per annum
- Work within an award‑winning Forest & Farm School environment
- Opportunity to deliver learning in woodland and outdoor settings every day
- Strong focus on professional development and training
- Career development opportunities within an established nursery group
- Supportive and collaborative nursery team
- Reggio Emilia‑inspired learning environment
- Work alongside experienced early years professionals
- Access to extensive outdoor learning spaces and natural environments
- Creative, child‑led and nature‑inspired learning culture
Working Hours & Shift Pattern
- Permanent Full‑Time position
- Based in Southwater, West Sussex (RH13)
- 36 or 40 hours per week
- On‑site role within a Forest & Farm School nursery environment
- Hands‑on outdoor learning and woodland‑based activities
- Daily engagement with nature‑focused learning experiences
- Collaborative working with nursery and early years teams
Job Description
As a Forest School Leader, you will play a central role within a unique Forest & Farm School nursery in Southwater, West Sussex (RH13). This is far more than a traditional childcare role. You will help create engaging outdoor learning experiences that encourage children to explore, investigate, problem‑solve and develop a lifelong appreciation for the natural world. The setting is part of an award‑winning Nurseries & Early Years group recognised for its commitment to outdoor learning, creativity and high‑quality early years education. Children benefit from woodland exploration, nature‑based activities, animal encounters and child‑led learning opportunities that support their emotional, social and physical development. As a Forest School Leader, you will have the opportunity to deliver inspiring Forest School experiences, encourage risk‑aware play, support children's confidence and independence, and create memorable learning experiences that simply cannot be replicated within a traditional indoor nursery environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead Forest School sessions and outdoor learning activities
- Support children's learning and development through nature‑based experiences
- Promote safe, engaging and stimulating outdoor environments
- Deliver woodland learning experiences that encourage exploration and discovery
- Complete risk assessments and maintain health and safety standards
- Support safeguarding and child protection procedures
- Encourage curiosity, resilience, independence and confidence in children
- Work collaboratively with nursery practitioners and leadership teams
- Maintain accurate observations and developmental records where required
- Contribute to the continued development of Forest School provision across the setting
Requirements
- Right to work in the UK
- Relevant Early Years, Forest School, CACHE, NVQ or equivalent qualification
- Experience working within nursery, early years, preschool, EYFS or childcare environments
- Knowledge of Forest School, outdoor learning or nature‑based education
- Ability to safely deliver engaging outdoor activities and learning experiences
- Strong communication and relationship‑building skills
- Able to work independently while contributing positively to a wider team
Company Culture
As a Forest School Leader, you will be joining a team that genuinely embraces outdoor learning as part of everyday practice. Inspired by both Forest School and Reggio Emilia principles, the setting encourages children to learn through exploration, creativity, curiosity and meaningful experiences in nature. Staff are supported through ongoing development opportunities and work within a collaborative culture that values innovation, child‑led learning and exceptional early years education. For professionals who are passionate about outdoor education, this offers the opportunity to spend more time in woodland environments, supporting children through hands‑on experiences and helping them build confidence, resilience and a connection with the world around them.
Forest School Leader in Southwater employer: Recruit by Nature
Join an award-winning Forest & Farm School nursery in Southwater, West Sussex, where you can immerse yourself in nature while fostering children's growth through outdoor education. With a strong emphasis on professional development, a supportive team culture, and the opportunity to lead engaging woodland learning experiences, this role offers a unique chance to make a meaningful impact in early years education. Experience the joy of working in a creative, child-led environment that values exploration and connection with the natural world.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Forest School Leader in Southwater
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the nursery's ethos and values. When you walk in for your interview, show them that you're not just passionate about outdoor education but that you truly resonate with their commitment to child-led learning and nature-based experiences.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare some engaging examples of how you've previously led outdoor activities or supported children's learning in nature. This will help you stand out and demonstrate your hands-on experience in a way that aligns with their Forest School principles.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to ask questions during your interview! Inquire about their current projects or future plans for outdoor learning. This shows your genuine interest and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.
✨Tip Number 4
Finally, apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged right from the start.
We think you need these skills to ace Forest School Leader in Southwater
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Nature:When writing your application, let us see your love for the outdoors and how it influences your teaching style. Share experiences where you've engaged children with nature, as this aligns perfectly with our Forest School principles.
Be Specific About Your Experience:We want to know about your relevant qualifications and experiences! Highlight any roles or training related to outdoor education, Forest School, or early years settings. The more specific you are, the better we can see how you fit into our team.
Keep It Personal and Engaging:Your application should reflect your personality! Use a friendly tone and share anecdotes that showcase your approach to child-led learning and outdoor activities. We love seeing the real you shine through!
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity in our award-winning nursery!
How to prepare for a job interview at Recruit by Nature
✨Know Your Forest School Principles
Make sure you brush up on the key principles of Forest School education. Be ready to discuss how you can apply these principles in your role, especially in promoting children's confidence and curiosity through nature-based learning.
✨Showcase Your Outdoor Experience
Prepare to share specific examples from your past experiences that highlight your ability to lead outdoor learning activities. Think about times when you encouraged exploration or problem-solving in children, and be ready to explain how you created engaging outdoor environments.
✨Emphasise Collaboration Skills
Since this role involves working closely with a nursery team, be prepared to talk about your teamwork experiences. Highlight how you've collaborated with others to create stimulating learning experiences and how you can contribute positively to the nursery's culture.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect to be asked about how you would handle specific situations, such as conducting risk assessments or managing outdoor activities. Think through potential scenarios and how you would ensure safety while encouraging children to take risks in their learning.
