About Us:

Bee in the Woods Forest Kindergarten is a magical outdoor childcare setting based on the outskirts of Brighton & Hove, East Sussex. Our beautiful woodland base provides 3-7 year olds with a unique early years experience. Our woodland settings provide the perfect environment for exploration, creativity, and connection with the natural world. We value nature as our teacher and learn through play amongst the trees or on visits to the local beach.

Role Overview:

We are seeking a passionate and experienced Forest School Leader to join the provision of our 'out of school' services, including leading a home education group three days a week and our school holiday club. This role is integral to providing a high-quality outdoor learning experience for children and families, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment. You will work collaboratively with a dynamic team of Early Years and Forest School practitioners to deliver our play-based, child-centred curriculum. 

‍Key Responsibilities:

Planning and Delivery

• Plan, deliver, and evaluate engaging and educational Forest School activities tailored to the developmental needs and interests of children aged 5-7
• Work with the team to continuously develop a curriculum for the home education group that aligns with Forest School ethos and complements children's learning at home.
• Collaborate in the planning and delivery of school holiday clubs.
• Foster an inclusive environment where all children feel supported and valued, adapting practices to meet individual needs.
  

Safeguarding

• Adhere to any relevant policies about keeping children safe, ongoing safeguarding, equal opportunities, data protection and confidentiality,
• Advise the Designated Safeguarding Leads of any concerns, e.g. over children, parents, the safety of the environment, preserving confidentiality as necessary
• Read, understand and adhere to all policies and procedures relevant to your role and the safe running of the setting
• Keep completely confidential any information regarding the children, their families or other staff that is acquired as part of the job
• Ensure good standards of safety, hygiene and cleanliness are maintained at all times
  

Person Specification:

Essential Requirements

• Relevant Forest School qualification (Level 3 or above).
• Extensive experience of working with children
• Experience of working in Forest School settings or outdoor learning environments.
• Keen interest in Alternative Education/Green Education practices
• Strong understanding of safeguarding, health and safety, and risk management in outdoor environments.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with children, families, and team members.
• Commitment to promoting a child-centered and nature-based approach to learning.
• Familiarity with SEN and inclusion practices.
• Knowledge of planning and delivering programs for mixed-age groups.
  ‍

Desirable Qualifications/Skills:

• Early Years qualification (Level 3 or above) or QTS
• Experience working with home-educated children and families.
• First Aid qualification, ideally including Outdoor/Forest School First Aid.
• Knowledge and interest in Education theorists such as Froebel, Reggio Emilia & Montessori.

What we offer

• Salary depending on experience and skills
• A chance to make a meaningful impact on children’s lives through outdoor learning.
• 28 days holiday per year (pro rata)
• An additional holiday day for each year worked
• 2 weeks closure at Christmas and one week in July
• Birthdays Off
• Exceptional CPD Opportunities
• Caring and reflective staff team who make wellbeing a priority
• Staff socials
• Discounted childcare if required
• Some flexible working hours to suit personal circumstances
• Bike to work scheme
• Techscheme
• Career progression opportunities
• A working day in a beautiful space, surrounded by nature.

‍How to Apply:

If you’re excited about this opportunity and meet the requirements, we’d love to hear from you!

Please request an application form using our enquiry form below.  Applications close on Friday 28th February 2025

We look forward to welcoming a new team member who shares our vision for creating magical outdoor spaces for children to thrive!

‍