Forest School Teaching Assistant
Location: Wareham
Salary: £13.68 – £16.12 per hour (Depending on Experience)
Start Date: Immediate
Contract Type: Full-time / Part-time
Are you passionate about outdoor learning and supporting children in a unique, nature-based setting?
GSL Education are seeking a dedicated Forest School Teaching Assistant to join schools in Wareham. This is a fantastic opportunity for individuals who enjoy working outdoors, encouraging creativity, and fostering children’s confidence through hands-on experiences in nature. As a Forest School Teaching Assistant, you will support pupils in outdoor environments, helping them engage with practical activities that promote teamwork, problem-solving, and personal growth. You will play an essential role in encouraging children to develop resilience, independence, and a love for learning outside the traditional classroom. Ideally, candidates will hold a valid driving licence and be willing to drive as part of the role.
About the School:
The school is an education setting based for 16 – 25+ years old with Special Educational Needs. It is based on 350 acres of beautiful Dorset countryside. The school operate enterprise activities and vocational teaching methods to bridge the gap between education and employment for young people and adults with SEN in Dorset and the local area. The school focuses on vocations like horticulture, agriculture, equine skills and animal care as well as many more, to enrich the lives and education of its pupils.
Main Responsibilities of a Forest School Teaching Assistant:
Assist in delivering Forest School activities, ensuring safety and engagement at all times.
Provide support for pupils in one-to-one and small group settings.
Encourage children’s curiosity and confidence through outdoor exploration.
Help with behaviour management and create a positive, inclusive environment.
Collaborate with teachers and Forest School leaders to deliver exciting sessions.
Forest School Teaching Assistant Requirements:
Previous experience working with children in educational or outdoor settings.
CACHE Level 2 or 3, NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Childcare or Teaching Assistance (preferred but not mandatory).
A genuine passion for outdoor education and supporting children’s development.
Strong communication and teamwork skills.
A valid driving licence and willingness to drive is essential.
Why Join GSL Education?
Competitive pay rates.
Flexible working opportunities (Full-time/Part-time).
Supportive consultants who value your career and development.
Opportunity to make a real impact in children’s education and growth.
To work with GSL Education as a Forest School Teaching Assistant, you should:
Have the right to work in the UK.
Have an up-to-date CV with two relevant references from within the last 2 years.
Have a DBS registered to the update service or be happy to apply for one with GSL Education.
Please be advised that this role requires a strong knowledge and understanding of safeguarding and child protection, and successful applicants must satisfy all background safer recruitment checks, including providing an enhanced DBS certificate registered on the update service or completing an application for a new check.
As an ethical, independent recruitment agency, GSL Education are committed to providing quality teaching and support staff across the UK.
For more information or to register your interest in the Forest School Teaching Assistant role, please click ‘apply now’ to submit your up-to-date CV, and one of our dedicated consultants will be in touch