Forest School Lead

The Post

We are looking for a Forest School Lead to join the team from September 2025. The post holder will be expected to provide leadership, support and develop the Forest School curriculum from Nursery to Year 6. The successful candidate will be required to hold the relevant Forest School Leadership Qualification.

The post is term time only Monday to Friday. The core working hours are 8:00am until 4:00pm. In addition, there will be a requirement to run at least two after School clubs until 5:35pm. These hours are subject to change in timetable, and flexibility is required.

The starting salary is circa £22,100 per annum.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the Forest School and/or Outdoor Learning curriculum for children from Nursery to Year 6 enabling the children to develop their knowledge and skills. Provide a yearly overview and evaluation of the curriculum and update in line with areas identified in the evaluation and any new initiatives;
• Deliver lessons in Forest School which inspire and motivate all children, including those with SEND and EAL, and develop children’s self-esteem, problem solving skills, teamwork skills, communication and risk taking. Capture and keep records of specific activities and experiences;
• Own and develop risk assessments to include the writing and retaining of all site, tool, fire and activities undertaken to include activities such as building shelters, moving logs and carrying sticks safely;
• Take responsibility for the control of the Forest School budget and provide capital bids as required. Research, source and order resources as required;
• Maintain all resources and tools checking at all times for safety;
• Liaise with grounds staff and Estates Bursar to provide a safe environment by identifying risks proactively, and perform safety site checks daily;
• Be aware of and follow all other School Policies and procedures;
• Create, maintain and update displays that will motivate and inspire the pupils and inform parents and visitors;
•  Provide talks and workshops for parents, staff and other interested parties on the ethos of and activities undertaken in Forest School;
• Work closely with the Marketing department to produce communications and events that inspire current children and families, and attract prospective children and families;
• Keep abreast of new developments, initiatives and philosophies in Forest Schools and Outdoor Learning and feedback to Senior Management Team’
• Maintain the Forest School specific First Aid course certificate at all times;
• Organise and participate in the training of staff, such as INSET, twilights and other Continuous Professional Development as arises from time to time;
• Run clubs for children to be able to engage in even more opportunities for outdoor learning throughout the academic year;
• Carry out any other work and activities as directed by the Head / Head of Pre-Prep, including carrying out duties and assisting in classrooms and lessons when required.

Closing date: Friday 21st March 2025

Applicants will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), and a declaration of medical fitness. It is an offence to apply for this role if the applicant is barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children.

The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. A copy of the School’s Child Protection policy may be found on the School’s website, which all applicants are expected to read prior to interview.

Sutton Valence School is an equal opportunities employer.

Please note: we reserve the right to appoint prior to the closing date.