Curious by Nature, an East London based community interest company offering free and highly subsidised Forest School sessions to the local community, is looking to connect with local Forest School leaders to fulfill roles planning and leading sessions in Beckton District Park South and local primary schools as our services expand.  Our community-driven initiative seeks an individual who is deeply passionate about enriching the lives of neurodivergent children, primary school children, home educated children and families through the wonders of nature, self-directed learning, and playful exploration. The candidate should be wild about nature and risk taking play as well as interested in finding out more about democratic and consent-based communities.

Role Overview:

As the Forest School Leader, you'll lead engaging, nature-based activities that foster a sense of adventure, curiosity, and respect for the natural world among children. We offer an opportunity to join a community that treats children with mutual respect. We believe that learning is deeper and more meaningful when children are able to discover things for themselves. You'll be at the forefront of creating a nurturing environment where children can form meaningful connections with nature, their peers, and themselves, guided by the principles of mutual respect and self-discovery.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leading Forest School sessions tailored to the interests and developmental stages of mixed age group of children ages 6-11.

• Planning and delivering a holistic forest school session, including a range of adult-led activities in nature as well as opportunities for free play and independent learning. 

• Regularly liaising with CBN staff regarding session plans and providing session reflection.

• Ensuring health and safety requirements are met and risk assessments are up to date. Conducting a dynamic and continuous risk assessment for each session; according to activities, weather conditions and any potential ad hoc hazards.

• Demonstrating flexibility and creativity in planning and running sessions to meet the evolving interests of the children, maintaining an engaging, fun and supportive atmosphere.

• Provide thoughtful supervision and support to children of diverse needs, fostering an inclusive community.

• Supporting children in their self-directed learning, nature exploration and conflict resolution. Caring for participants emotional and physical well being, observing children and reflecting with them. 

• Engage in ongoing professional development, staff online meetings, and training opportunities relevant to the role.

• Administer first aid as necessary and maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times.

• Refine program offerings to continuously enhance children’s learning experience.

• Effectively manage support staff and volunteers, ensuring they embrace the Forest School ethos.

• Confidently and safely using tools with children in a designated tool area, following a toll script. Maintain and manage equipment and resources, ensuring their safe storage and use.

• Be aware of and comply with policies and procedures relating to safeguarding and child protection, equal opportunities, health and safety, confidentiality and data protection.

Essential Qualifications and Experience:

• Forest School Level 3 qualification (or currently doing the training) 

• Hold a current Paediatric/16hr outdoor First Aid Certificate. 

• Up to date DBS

• Experience of working with groups of children at different stages of development.

• Recent and significant experience in leading Forest School/outdoor education sessions with children of a range of ages. 

• A love of working outdoors regardless of the weather, whilst ensuring the safety of the children when working in wet, cold and muddy conditions / uneven surfaces, or in hot and sunny conditions.

Desirable Attributes:

• Additional qualifications or experience in outdoor activities or bushcraft.

• Familiarity with self-directed learning principles and environments.

• Ability to engage constructively with and relate to a wide range of young people

• Understanding of neurodiversity and work experience with neurodivergent children. 

Curious by Nature offers free and low cost forest school sessions to the diverse local community of Newham and East London. Join us and become part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to creating unforgettable outdoor learning experiences. We offer competitive compensation, a dynamic working environment,  training and professional development opportunities and the joy of contributing to the holistic development of young learners. 

To apply, please send your CV and a brief cover email to info@curiousbynaturelondon.co.uk by 19th August 2024