Forest School Practitioner

2 days ago

Rochester ME, United Kingdom Nursery Management Services Full time

The Forest School Practitioner is responsible for planning, delivering, and evaluating high-quality Forest School sessions that promote holistic development, outdoor learning, and a deep connection with nature. The role requires strong leadership, safeguarding awareness, and the ability to engage children in hands-on, learner-led experiences in an outdoor environment.

Key Responsibilities

1. Planning & Delivery

  • Plan and lead Forest School sessions using learner-centred, play-based approaches.
  • Create safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate activities that support children's physical, emotional, and social development.
  • Adapt sessions to meet the needs of diverse learners, including SEND and varying age groups.
  • Establish routines and expectations that promote independence, curiosity, and resilience.

2. Safety & Risk Management

  • Complete site risk assessments and dynamic risk assessments as needed.
  • Ensure safe use of tools, fire lighting equipment, natural materials, and outdoor spaces.
  • Maintain up-to-date first aid qualifications (e.g., Outdoor First Aid) and respond to accidents or emergencies appropriately.
  • Follow all safeguarding procedures and report any concerns promptly.

3. Environment Management

  • Maintain and improve the Forest School site, ensuring it is safe, stimulating, and ecologically respectful.
  • Sustain a nature-friendly ethos, promoting biodiversity and environmental stewardship.

4. Record Keeping & Assessment

  • Monitor and document children's progress through observations, photos, and reflective notes.
  • Prepare reports for parents, teachers, and leadership teams as required.
  • Evaluate sessions to improve future delivery and learning outcomes.

5. Collaboration & Communication

  • Work closely with laeders, SEN coordinators, and parents to support children's learning needs.
  • Provide feedback and guidance to teachers on embedding outdoor learning into the wider curriculum.
  • Lead or support training for staff and volunteers on Forest School approaches.

6. Professionalism & Development

  • Uphold the values and principles of Forest School at all times.
  • Engage in continuing professional development, including updates in outdoor education, safeguarding, and ecological practices.
  • Model environmentally responsible behaviour and a positive attitude toward outdoor learning.

Person Specification

Essential Qualifications & Experience

  • Level 3 Forest School Leader qualification
  • Experience working with children in an educational, childcare, or outdoor learning setting.
  • Enhanced DBS clearance.
  • Outdoor First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
  • Strong knowledge of child development and inclusive practice.

Skills & Attributes

  • Ability to lead groups of children confidently and manage behaviour calmly and positively.
  • Enthusiasm for outdoor learning in all weathers and seasons.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Creative thinker with the ability to adapt activities to learner interests.
  • Commitment to safeguarding and equality of opportunity.

Desirable

  • Experience supporting children with SEND or additional needs.
  • Knowledge of woodland ecology, bushcraft, or environmental education.
  • Experience maintaining outdoor learning sites or habitats.

Working Conditions

  • Role requires working outdoors year-round in varied weather conditions.
  • Some lifting, carrying, and manual site tasks required.
  • Occasional evening or weekend work for events or training.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: £26,000.00-£30,000.00 per year

Benefits:

  • Additional leave
  • Childcare
  • Company events
  • Company pension
  • Health & wellbeing programme
  • On-site parking

Work Location: In person

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