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.

To maintain our commitment to providing a safe and inspiring environment, we are seeking a skilled and dedicated Woodskeeper/Caretaker to help us care for our woodland sites.

Role Overview:

The Woodskeeper/Caretaker will play a key role in maintaining the physical environment of our woodland nursery sites. You will be responsible for ensuring that the outdoor spaces are safe, clean, and well-maintained, while also enhancing the natural beauty and sustainability of the woodlands. This is a hands-on, varied role suited to someone with a passion for outdoor work and woodland conservation.  Own transport is essential as the role covers sites across Brightopn & Hove.

Key Responsibilities:

Site Maintenance

• Regularly inspect woodland play areas and pathways for hazards.
• Maintain fencing, gates, and other infrastructure.
• Carry out repairs and report major issues promptly.
• Inspect and maintain two site compost toilets.‍

Safety and Compliance

• Conduct routine checks to ensure compliance with health and safety standards.
• Clear fallen branches and manage potential risks such as overgrown vegetation.
• Assist with fire pit maintenance and safe storage of tools and equipment.‍

Conservation and Aesthetic Improvements

• Support the ecological health of the woodland (e.g., planting native species, managing invasive plants).
• Create and maintain natural play structures and features.
• Ensure pathways are clear and accessible.‍

‍Support for Kindergarten Activities:

• Work with Kindergarten staff to set up outdoor learning spaces.
• Assist in creating structures or areas for forest-based educational activities.‍

Equipment and Tools

• Maintain tools and machinery, ensuring they are stored securely.
• Monitor stock levels of materials and supplies (e.g., wood, natural resources).
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Essential Requirements

• Proven experience in a similar role (e.g., groundskeeper, conservation work, or outdoor site maintenance).
• Competency in using tools and equipment for woodland and site maintenance.
• Understanding of health and safety regulations, particularly for outdoor and child-friendly environments.
• Passion for woodland conservation and sustainable practices.
• Strong physical fitness and comfort working outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Own transport for working across multiple sites (mileage paid)
  

Desirable Qualifications/Skills

• Forest School ethos understanding or prior experience working in a Forest School setting.
• Knowledge of local flora and fauna or relevant conservation qualifications.
• First Aid certification (preferably paediatric or outdoor).
• Chainsaw certification or similar (if required for specific tasks).
  

Safeguarding

We ask that all staff;

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

Pay Scale

£11–£15 per hour, based on experience, skills, and certifications. Candidates with specialised skills (e.g., woodland management qualifications or significant site maintenance experience) may be considered for the higher end of the scale.

The Package

Salary depending on experience and skills

28 days holiday per year (pro rata)

Birthdays Off

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

The chance to spend your working day in a beautiful space, surrounded by nature.

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How to Apply:

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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