Forest School Leader – Horsham, West Sussex (RH13)
To deliver inspiring, nature-based learning experiences that support children’s curiosity, confidence, and development within a nursery setting.
Employment Type
Full-time, Permanent
Salary
£25,000 - £28,000 per year (dependent on experience) + benefits
Pay & Benefits
- Generous annual leave allowance
- Paid training and ongoing CPD opportunities
- Forest School development and progression support
- Funded refresher training for outdoor learning and safeguarding
- Supportive induction and mentoring from an experienced leadership team
- Wellbeing support and employee assistance programme
- Staff discounts and perks (where available)
- High-quality outdoor resources, equipment and learning environments
- Opportunities to shape an outdoor learning curriculum across the setting
- Free on-site parking
Working Hours & Shift Pattern
This is a full-time, permanent position working Monday to Friday across the setting’s core operating hours. Sessions are planned in advance, with regular breaks included, and some flexibility may be available depending on seasonal delivery and outdoor timetables.
Job Description
We’re looking for a passionate Forest School Leader to deliver inspiring outdoor learning experiences in Horsham, West Sussex (RH13). This is a hands-on, rewarding role for someone who loves the outdoors and believes in the power of nature-based learning to build confidence, resilience, curiosity and independence. You’ll lead small group sessions, support child-led exploration, and create safe, exciting opportunities for children to take appropriate risks, discover new skills, and develop a lifelong respect for the environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead Forest School sessions with small groups of children, adapting activities for different ages and stages
- Create safe, engaging, and imaginative outdoor learning experiences that encourage curiosity and confidence
- Support child-led play, exploration and problem-solving through nature-based learning
- Promote resilience and healthy risk-taking through well-planned and supervised outdoor activities
- Embed environmental awareness through hands-on experiences and respectful woodland practice
- Maintain and organise Forest School tools, fire pit areas, outdoor resources and woodland environments
- Complete risk assessments and ensure sessions meet high standards of safety and supervision
- Record observations and contribute to learning journeys in line with EYFS expectations
- Follow safeguarding, health & safety, and setting policies at all times
Requirements
- Forest School Leader qualification (Level 3 or equivalent)
- Level 3 childcare qualification (desirable but not essential)
- Experience delivering outdoor learning sessions for children in a Forest School or similar environment
- Knowledge of risk assessments, bushcraft, woodland safety and nature-based learning approaches
- Confidence managing small groups outdoors in varied weather conditions
- Strong understanding of safeguarding and child wellbeing best practice
- Working knowledge of EYFS and how outdoor learning supports development
- A calm, confident presence with a playful, can-do attitude
- Suitable also for: Forest School Practitioner, Outdoor Educator, Outdoor Learning Leader, Woodland Leader
Company Culture
As a Forest School Leader, you’ll be joining a friendly, supportive team with a shared passion for creating outstanding early years experiences. Leadership is approachable and hands-on, encouraging fresh ideas, continuous improvement and professional growth. The environment is warm and welcoming, with a strong focus on teamwork, wellbeing, and giving children the freedom to learn through exploration, play and meaningful outdoor experiences.
Why This Role Appeals
- A fulfilling opportunity to make outdoor learning a central part of children’s development
- A role where your skills, creativity and Forest School expertise are genuinely valued
- Supportive training, CPD and development opportunities to strengthen your practice
- Work in Horsham, West Sussex (RH13) within an inspiring outdoor-focused environment
Apply Today
If you’re a Forest School Leader in Horsham, West Sussex (RH13) who is ready to inspire children within Nurseries & Early Years setting through meaningful outdoor learning, we’d love to hear from you. This is a brilliant opportunity to grow your career in a supportive setting where your passion for nature, play and child development will make a real difference every day.
Applications will be reviewed as they are received, so early interest is warmly encouraged