Forest School Manager (Early Years Level 3) – Up to £42,000

The nursery is a well-established forest school, set within a natural woodland environment. Children learn through hands-on, play-based activities, exploring and discovering outdoors every day. We are looking for an experienced early years manager to lead the team, maintain high standards, and support the continued growth of the nursery’s outdoor learning programme.

Before you apply

• This role requires recent management experience within an early years setting.

• A Level 3 qualification in Early Years (or above) is essential.

• This position is not suitable for candidates without leadership experience in nursery environments.

Key job details

• Salary: up to £42,000

• Hours: 40 hours per week, full-time

• Setting: Forest school nursery setting

Why this role is worth considering

• Established and thriving forest school nursery with a strong local reputation

• Supernumerary structure allowing focus on leadership and quality

• Outdoor, play-based learning approach embedded into daily practice

• Funded training and ongoing professional development

• Competitive pension scheme and private healthcare insurance

• Generous annual leave, increasing with length of service, plus team events

What you’ll need

Essential

• Level 3 in Early Years (or above)

• Proven experience as a nursery manager

• Confidence leading teams and managing standards independently

• Clear understanding of early years frameworks and safeguarding

Desirable

• Forest School Leader Level 3 qualification or above

• Experience working within outdoor or forest school settings

What you’ll do

• Lead the operational management of the forest school nursery

• Maintain high standards of early years practice, safeguarding, and compliance

• Support, guide, and manage the staff team effectively

• Oversee planning and delivery of hands-on, outdoor learning experiences

• Work closely with senior leadership to ensure consistency and quality

What happens after you apply
Applications are reviewed promptly. Clear communication is provided throughout the process.

Reference: WILL199884/JJ

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