Forest School Assistant

Forest School Assistant The Forest School Assistant will play a vital role in supporting the implementation and delivery of Forest School sessions. Working closely with the Forest School Lead and teaching staff, the assistant will contribute to providing a stimulating outdoor learning environment that fosters curiosity, exploration, and a connection with nature for primary school students. Responsibilities Assist in the Planning and Preparation: Collaborate with the Forest School Lead to plan and prepare engaging outdoor activities in line with the curriculum. Ensure that the Forest School site is safe, well‑maintained, and stocked with necessary resources. Supervise Outdoor Sessions: Support the Forest School Lead during outdoor sessions, ensuring the well‑being and safety of students. Facilitate and encourage student participation in activities, fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment. Promote Nature Connection: Encourage students to explore and appreciate the natural environment, fostering a sense of curiosity and environmental awareness. Assist in incorporating nature‑based elements into the overall curriculum. Support Student Development: Provide guidance and assistance to students in developing outdoor skills and independence. Foster a sense of responsibility and respect for nature among students. Collaborate with Teachers: Work collaboratively with classroom teachers to integrate outdoor learning experiences into the broader curriculum. Provide feedback to teachers on students’ progress and engagement during outdoor sessions. Safety and Risk Management: Uphold and enforce safety protocols during outdoor activities. Identify and mitigate potential risks, ensuring a secure and enjoyable learning environment. Maintain Resources and Equipment: Organise and maintain Forest School equipment and resources. Report any maintenance or repair needs promptly. Communication with Parents and Carers: Communicate with parents and carers regarding Forest School activities and achievements. Provide updates on students’ experiences and development in outdoor learning. Personal Statement Questions Can you please provide examples of your previous experience working in an educational or outdoor setting? Knowledge of health and safety regulations related to outdoor activities is required for this role. Please explain how you meet this criteria and provide evidence to support this. Explain your understanding of safeguarding. Please briefly outline the reasons for your interest in this role and the motivation for applying. Please briefly explain your experience of promoting and gaining positive pupil behaviour. Please briefly explain your experience of working with SEN children. Please briefly explain how you have successfully overcome communication barriers with children. Qualifications Previous experience working in an educational or outdoor setting is desirable. Passion for outdoor education, nature‑based learning, and child development. Knowledge of health and safety regulations related to outdoor activities. Effective communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work collaboratively with school staff and parents. Basic first‑aid certification is an asset. Why Work with REAch2 Academy Trust? Excellence & Development: We prioritise high standards and offer extensive professional development and career growth opportunities. Supportive & Collaborative: Be part of a strong, collaborative community of over 60 schools where every voice is valued, and best practices are shared. Well‑being Focus: We promote a healthy work‑life balance and offer robust well‑being support for all staff. Diversity & Inclusion: We celebrate diversity and believe that varied perspectives strengthen our schools. Innovation & Impact: Bring creativity to the classroom and make a real difference in children’s lives. Making a difference: Working with REAch2 means contributing to something bigger than yourself. You'll be helping to shape the lives of young learners, making a meaningful impact on communities and future generations. Benefits Generous Annual Leave – healthy work‑life balance. Professional Development – access diverse CPD and training opportunities to grow your skills. Flexible & Family‑Friendly – we are committed to supporting flexible working and requests will be considered on an individual basis. Exclusive Discounts – benefit from Blue Light Card offers and employee perks. Well‑being Support – receive comprehensive well‑being and employee assistance for you and your family. Safeguarding, Safer Recruitment and Data Protection At REAch2 we recognise that those who work in an academy are in a unique position in their care of children. The responsibility for all staff to safeguard pupils and promote their welfare, as stated in Section 175 of the Education Act (2002) is one that is central to our ethos, our policies and our actions. All children are deserving of the highest levels of care and safeguarding, regardless of their individual characteristics or circumstances, and we are committed to applying our policies to ensure effective levels of safeguarding and care are afforded to all our pupils. We will seek to recruit the best applicant for the job based on the abilities, qualifications, experience as measured against the job description and person specification. The recruitment and selection of staff will be conducted in a professional, timely and responsive manner and in compliance with current employment legislation, and relevant safeguarding legislation and statutory guidance. An enhanced DBS disclosure will be requested for all successful candidates, including a Children’s Barred List check if the role meets the criteria for regulated activity. #J-18808-Ljbffr