Forest Early Years Educator – Be a Forest Practitioner in our New Permanent Forest School
Oak Wood Forest school, 251 Clapgate Lane, IP3 0RH
Full-time | 38 hours per week | All year round OR Part Time | 20 hours per week | All year round
£12.64 per hour
Application Deadline: End of September
Are you
* Someone who loves the outdoors?
* Someone who likes to be active?
* Someone who does not mind getting muddy?
* Passionate about supporting children to become capable, confident individuals?
Then this is the opportunity for you
We are looking for two passionate early years educators for our brand new permanent forest school provision, Oak Wood Forest Schools. Opening in January 2026, you will get to be there from the beginning, helping to shape what this provision becomes. Our permanent forest school will offer all day preschool provision in our beautiful woodland with bespoke buildings, fire pit and much more.
Starting in October 2025, we want our initial forest team to be an integral part of the design, development and set up of our site, shaping high quality outstanding practice which has nature connections and play at the heart of it
About Us
Oak Wood Forest School is located at the back of Oak Wood Nursery and is part of the Bows and Arrows Group, a not-for-profit organisation with seven nurseries and one mission: to ensure every child flourishes. All our profits are reinvested into our settings – because great childcare starts with great people, great spaces, and great support.
We believe in outdoor play all day, every day – rain or shine. Building on our existing mobile forest school provision, we are so excited to see a long term dream actualised in having a full-time base.
What You'll Do
As our Early Years Educator, you'll work closely with the Forest Senior Educator to support in the day to day running and education of the preschool children. You'll ensure every child receives high-quality care and education, and that every day is filled with fun, creativity, and opportunity.
We are looking for either one full time person at 38hrs a week, all year round OR we would consider two part time people at approximately 20hrs each.
Some of your duties at Oak Wood Forest school will include -
* Initiating and engaging in exciting activities & experiences for children, focused on an indoor environment
* Supporting children's behaviour using strategies that align with High Scope Approach & Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs.
* Completing observations, planning and learning-journeys.
* Developing relationships with all parents/carers.
* Create and maintain a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment
What You'll Bring
* A Level 3 qualification (or higher) in Early Years / Childcare
* Willingness to undertake training to support in delivery of forest schools
* Deep understanding of; The EYFS, Child development theory, The HighScope approach to behaviour
* Safeguarding and SEN Knowledge
* Health & safety in early years environments
* Strong communication, and team collaboration skills
* A passion for learning, adventure, and making a real difference
What We Offer
We care deeply about our team's wellbeing and development. As part of the Bows and Arrows family, you'll benefit from:
* Additional leave and sick pay
* Casual dress and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere
* Childcare discounts
* Regular company events
* A supportive health & wellbeing programme
* Pension scheme
* Free parking
* And most importantly — the chance to do meaningful work every single day
Ready to Join Us?
If you're ready to inspire and grow alongside a dedicated team of professionals — we'd love to hear from you.
Apply now
Application deadline: End of September - Act fast if you're interested
We're serious about safeguarding. - All roles require an Enhanced DBS check and a strong commitment to the safety and welfare of children.
AIM HIGH – The Bows & Arrows Group
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Permanent
Pay: £12.64 per hour
Benefits:
* Additional leave
* Bereavement leave
* Casual dress
* Childcare
* Company events
* Company pension
* Employee discount
* Sick pay
Education:
* Certificate of Higher Education (preferred)
Work Location: In person