Forest School Practitioner

Job title: Forest School Practitioner Job location: Woodcot Primary School Working hours: 15 hours per week, 12.30pm - 3.30pm Monday to Friday Term time only 39 weeks per year Grade: B FTE salary: £25,614 - £25,956 FTE Actual annual salary: £8,906.32 - £9,025.24 per annum Woodcot Primary School is seeking a Forest School Practitioner to join our new outdoor learning provision, supporting our Forest School Leader in delivering engaging, curriculum-based outdoor learning experiences for our primary school pupils. Do you love the great outdoors and have a passion for inspiring young minds? Are you enthusiastic about outdoor learning, unfazed by all types of weather, and eager to get your hands dirty? If you have a good sense of humour and a caring, approachable demeanour, we would love to have you join our team.

About the role

Collaborate with the Forest School Leader to prepare and deliver engaging, curriculum-based outdoor learning experiences for our primary school children. Facilitate the teaching of practical skills, including shelter building, tool use, knot tying and fire management. Foster an appreciation for nature, guiding children in the identification and understanding of local flora and fauna. Promote health and wellbeing by encouraging outdoor activities, mindfulness exercises and connection with nature. Develop teamwork and communication skills through collaborative problem-solving and group activities. Teach environmental stewardship, instructing pupils on the impact of human activities on the environment and responsible conservation practices. Ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of children in your care, and assist in maintaining a safe environment for all participants. Continuously update your knowledge of outdoor learning best practice, local ecology and natural resources to enhance the quality of the programme. Support with games on the playground during the second half of lunch The ideal candidate will possess Excellent interpersonal and communication skills. A proactive, flexible and enthusiastic approach to work. Experience working with children in an educational or recreational setting, particularly within a primary school environment. An understanding of the Forest School ethos and some knowledge of nature and/or bushcraft skills (desirable, but not essential). First aid certification, or willingness to obtain this. Forest School training and qualifications are an advantage, but we will support the successful candidate with continuing professional development (CPD). At Woodcot Primary School you will find Happy, motivated children eager to learn in a one-form entry primary setting. A dedicated, supportive and welcoming staff team. A strong focus on continuing professional development (CPD) and a commitment to your future. An ethos that embraces new ideas and innovation. A well-resourced environment with extensive grounds. The chance to be part of a brand-new provision from its earliest days. The Gateway Trust is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check, satisfactory references and pre-employment checks in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education