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 Deputy Manager; Forest School/Out of School Lead to oversee the provision of our 'out of school' services, including leading a home education group three days a week and managing 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 while playing a leadership role in planning and delivery. 

Key Responsibilities:

Management and Leadership

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the 'out of school' provision, including the home education group and holiday club.
• Act as co-Deputy Manager, supporting the Early Years Lead and the Kindergarten Manager in delivering the overall vision and goals of the setting.
• Lead and mentor a team of practitioners, ensuring high standards of practice in line with Forest School principles and Early Years frameworks.
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements, health and safety policies, and safeguarding procedures.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with families, schools, and other community stakeholders to promote the services offered.
  

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
• Develop a curriculum for the home education group that aligns with Forest School ethos and complements children's learning at home.
• Coordinate the planning and execution of school holiday clubs, ensuring a varied and stimulating program.
• Foster an inclusive environment where all children feel supported and valued, adapting practices to meet individual needs.
  

Operational Duties

• Monitor and manage resources, including maintaining equipment and stock required for Forest School activities.
• Maintain accurate records, including attendance, incident reports, and developmental observations.
• Support the recruitment, induction, and ongoing training of team members.
• Work collaboratively with the team to identify and implement improvements to services and practices.
  

Safeguarding

• Adhere to any relevant policies about keeping children safe, ongoing safeguarding, equal opportunities, data protection and confidentiality,
• Advise the Manager 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
  

Essential Requirements:

• Relevant Forest School qualification (Level 3 or above).
• Experience working in Forest School settings or outdoor learning environments.
• Proven leadership or supervisory experience in Early Years, education, or related fields.
• 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.
  
  

Salary

£28,080 - £32,240 per annum (pro rata)

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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)
• 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.

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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 Sunday 5th January 2025

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

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