At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop engaging Forest School sessions in a nature-rich environment.
- Company: Unique early years setting on a working farm in Exeter.
- Benefits: Negotiable salary, ongoing professional development, and supportive leadership.
- Why this job: Shape outdoor learning experiences and inspire children's curiosity in nature.
- Qualifications: Forest School qualification and strong understanding of EYFS principles.
- Other info: Hands-on leadership role with excellent career progression opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
If you believe children learn best when they're curious, muddy, and exploring the world around them, this could be the role you’ve been waiting for. Thrive Recruitment Group is delighted to be recruiting an Outdoor Learning & Forest School Manager for a unique early years setting based on a working farm in Newton St Cyres, Exeter. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced outdoor learning professional to take ownership of Forest School provision and help it flourish in a truly inspiring environment.
Reporting to the Nursery Manager, you’ll lead the outdoor learning vision across the setting, ensuring Forest School sessions are engaging, inclusive, and rooted in best practice.
Responsibilities- Leading and developing high-quality Forest School sessions
- Planning and delivering creative, child-led outdoor learning experiences
- Supporting children’s emotional, physical, and social development through play
- Promoting safe, risk-aware, and inclusive outdoor practice
- Working collaboratively with the wider nursery and leadership team
- Helping embed outdoor learning across the setting's daily practice
This is a hands-on leadership role where your passion for nature-based learning will truly shine.
Qualifications- A Forest School qualification (Level 3 desirable)
- Strong understanding of EYFS and outdoor learning principles
- Confident, organised, and passionate about child-led education
- Excellent communication skills and a collaborative mindset
- A genuine love for the outdoors - in all seasons
Negotiable salary based on experience. A rare opportunity to work in a farm-based, nature-rich setting. Supportive leadership that values outdoor education. Ongoing professional development and progression opportunities. The chance to shape and grow an established Forest School programme.
Please submit a written application outlining your experience, achievements, and suitability for the role. If you’re ready to lead outdoor learning in a setting where nature is central to everything, we’d love to hear from you.
Outdoor Learning & Forest School Manager in Exeter employer: senploy
Contact Detail:
senploy Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Outdoor Learning & Forest School Manager in Exeter
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the nursery and its ethos before your interview. Visit the site if you can, or check out their online presence. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in their outdoor learning vision.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare some engaging examples from your past experiences that highlight your skills in leading Forest School sessions. Think about how you've supported children's development through play and how you can bring that passion to their setting.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your love for the outdoors! Share stories about your adventures in nature and how they’ve influenced your teaching style. This will resonate with them, especially since they value a genuine connection to the environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to ask questions during your interview! Inquire about their current Forest School programme and how you can contribute to its growth. This shows that you’re not just looking for a job, but are eager to be part of their community.
We think you need these skills to ace Outdoor Learning & Forest School Manager in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Outdoor Learning: Let us see your enthusiasm for nature-based education! Share specific experiences where you've led outdoor learning sessions or engaged children in creative, child-led activities. This will help us understand how you can bring that passion to our Forest School.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your written application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the responsibilities listed in the job description. We want to see how you can contribute to our vision of engaging, inclusive outdoor learning.
Be Clear and Concise: While we love a good story, keep your application focused and to the point. Use clear language to outline your achievements and suitability for the role. This helps us quickly grasp your qualifications and fit for the position.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you 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. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy, which is always a bonus!
How to prepare for a job interview at senploy
✨Know Your Outdoor Learning Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Forest School principles and EYFS guidelines. Be ready to discuss how you can create engaging, child-led outdoor experiences that promote emotional and social development.
✨Show Your Passion for Nature
During the interview, let your love for the outdoors shine through! Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your connection with nature and how it influences your teaching style.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Think about potential challenges you might face in leading outdoor sessions and how you would handle them. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed risk-aware practices in previous roles.
✨Collaborate and Communicate
Emphasise your ability to work as part of a team. Discuss how you plan to collaborate with the nursery staff and leadership team to embed outdoor learning into daily practice, showcasing your excellent communication skills.