At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead Forest School sessions and support classroom activities for children.
- Company: Join a friendly and supportive team at St. Peter's Methodist Primary School.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a nurturing work environment.
- Other info: Term-time only role with opportunities for personal and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while enjoying the great outdoors.
- Qualifications: Experience in schools, GCSE English and Maths required; HLTA qualification preferred.
The predicted salary is between 23974 - 29716 € per year.
At St. Peter's Methodist Primary School, we are looking for a qualified forest school person or we are willing to train an enthusiastic and passionate person to deliver sessions in our beautiful Forest School setting. Alongside this role, you will also be covering classes following teacher's planning. We are looking for an enthusiastic Higher Level Teaching Assistant to join our school to support children to enable them to fulfil their potential. You will also be our Forest School lead.
We will accept applications from candidates with the Level 3 Forest School qualification; however, we are excited to offer to train the right candidate for this role. If you are passionate about working with children to help them succeed, then this role is for you. It is a perfect combination of working in class but also making our Forest School continue to thrive.
We are a friendly school with a supportive team of staff who will ensure that you are able to achieve within your role. We are seeking to appoint a hardworking, committed, flexible and reliable individual who can work on their own initiative when required. You will be expected to cover a whole class following teachers' plans, work within a whole class setting as well as supporting the needs of some children in a group and on an individual basis. You will also be expected to plan our Forest School activities for whole classes and nurture groups. You may also be asked to cover lunch duty.
Experience working within a school is essential. GCSE level English and Maths is a requirement and an HLTA qualification is desirable. Above all, you need to be committed to working as part of a team who are determined to secure the absolute best for our pupils and will work hard to ensure children achieve everything they are capable of.
You will be working 5 days a week, 37.5 hours per week term time only (with half hour lunch break). Salary will be KSE. As part of St. Peter's Methodist Primary School, you will join a community of staff dedicated to ensuring the best opportunities for all children. With regular CPD available, there will be ever-growing opportunities to develop your personal skills and career.
- Key Details
- 37.5 hours per week, 8:00 to 4pm
- KSE - £23,974 (FTE £27,852- £29,716)
- Term time Permanent Contract
- Closing date for the advert: Friday 12th June 2026 at 12pm
- Date for interviews: Wednesday 17th June 2026
- Start Date: September 2026
Please contact kdyer@st-peters-canterbury.kent.sch.uk to arrange a visit and for further information. St Peter’s Methodist Primary School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to pre-employment checks including an Enhanced Disclosure Application to the Disclosure and Barring Service.
HLTA and Forest School Lead - Full-time in Kent employer: Sandwich Infant
At St. Peter's Methodist Primary School, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that fosters a supportive and collaborative work environment. Our commitment to professional development ensures that staff have access to regular CPD opportunities, allowing for personal growth and career advancement. With a focus on nurturing both our pupils and our team, you will find a fulfilling role in our beautiful Forest School setting, where your passion for education can truly thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HLTA and Forest School Lead - Full-time in Kent
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, take a stroll around St. Peter's Methodist Primary School if you can. Familiarising yourself with the environment and the ethos will help you feel more confident and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for working with children! During your interview, share specific examples of how you've supported kids in the past. Whether it’s through teaching or leading activities, let them see your enthusiasm for helping children thrive.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to discuss your flexibility! The role requires covering classes and planning Forest School activities, so be prepared to talk about how you adapt to different situations and support various learning needs.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We encourage you to submit your application directly on our site. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves and shows you’re serious about joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace HLTA and Forest School Lead - Full-time in Kent
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for working with children! In your application, share specific experiences that highlight your commitment to helping kids succeed. We love candidates who can convey their passion for education and the outdoors.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to fit the HLTA and Forest School Lead role. Highlight relevant qualifications, like your Level 3 Forest School qualification if you have it, or express your eagerness to learn if you're looking for training. We want to know why you're the perfect fit!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your skills and experiences at a glance.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our friendly team at St. Peter's Methodist Primary School.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sandwich Infant
✨Know Your Forest School Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Forest School principles and practices. If you’re not already qualified, show your enthusiasm for learning and how you can bring creativity to the role. Think about activities you could plan that would engage children in nature.
✨Show Your Passion for Education
During the interview, express your genuine passion for working with children. Share specific examples of how you've supported students in the past, whether in a classroom or through extracurricular activities. This will demonstrate your commitment to helping them succeed.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Teamwork
Since this role involves working closely with other staff members, be prepared to talk about your experience in a team setting. Highlight instances where you’ve collaborated effectively with colleagues to achieve common goals, especially in an educational environment.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the school’s approach to education, the Forest School programme, and opportunities for professional development. This shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of their community and committed to your own growth.
