Forest School Leader / Level 3 Early Years Practitioner
Location: Hyde, Greater Manchester
Salary: £16,000–£17,000 per annum (depending on experience & qualifications)
Hours: Tuesday–Thursday 8:00am–6:00pm, Friday 8:00am–2:00pm
Working pattern: Term-time only (38 weeks per year)
Contract: Permanent
Start date: ASAP
My client is a well-established outdoor nursery and forest school–inspired setting, offering a unique early years experience for children aged 9 months to 5 years. Set within a purpose-built outdoor learning environment surrounded by woodland and natural features, the setting champions child-led learning, in-the-moment planning, and holistic development through nature.
They are now looking for a passionate Forest School Leader / Level 3 Early Years Practitioner to join their team and support high-quality outdoor provision.
The Role
This is a hands-on role suited to an early years professional who thrives outdoors and believes children learn best through exploration, movement, and meaningful experiences in nature.
You will work closely with the management team to:
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Deliver engaging forest school and outdoor learning experiences
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Support children’s learning and development in line with the EYFS
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Act as a key person, tracking progress and sharing updates with families
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Maintain a safe, nurturing, and stimulating outdoor environment
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Promote independence, resilience, and confidence through child-led play
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Support safeguarding, wellbeing, and inclusion at all times
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Build strong, positive relationships with parents and carers
Key Responsibilities
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Plan and deliver outdoor and forest school activities using in-the-moment planning
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Maintain daily risk assessments and ensure health & safety standards are met
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Support children with personal care, routines, and hygiene
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Facilitate child-led learning to develop life skills such as communication and problem-solving
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Record observations and progress using a digital learning platform
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Work collaboratively as part of a supportive team
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Assist with meal preparation, cleaning, and general nursery duties as required
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Attend training, staff meetings, and events outside core hours when needed
Requirements
Essential:
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Level 3 Early Years qualification (or above)
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Minimum 2 years’ experience in an early years setting
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Valid Enhanced DBS (or willingness to obtain and join the update service)
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Paediatric First Aid (or willingness to complete)
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Strong understanding of the EYFS
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A genuine passion for outdoor learning and working in all weather
Desirable:
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Forest School qualification (training can be provided)
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Montessori knowledge or experience
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Outdoor First Aid experience
What’s on Offer
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Term-time only working pattern
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A genuinely supportive and values-led environment
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Opportunity to develop forest school skills and qualifications
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A role where outdoor learning is central, not an add-on
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Strong focus on staff wellbeing and work–life balance
If you’re an early years practitioner who sees a fallen tree as an opportunity, loves being outdoors, and believes children thrive through exploration and movement, this role offers something truly different.
Apply now for a confidential conversation