Early Years Practitioner​/Forest school Leader

Early Years Practitioner / Forest School Leader

Join to apply for the Early Years Practitioner / Forest School Leader role at Surrey County Council.

This vacancy is advertised on behalf of a partnership organisation and is not part of Surrey County Council.

We are a small sessional nursery rated outstanding by Ofsted, providing the highest standard of care and education to children aged 2.5 to 5. Our setting fosters a love for learning and independence through exciting outdoor and woodland experiences, with any candidate expected to have a love for learning outdoors and a commitment to working in woodland regardless of weather.

This role involves working within the nursery / forest school team to plan, support and extend children’s learning indoors and outdoors, including in our surrounding woodland. You will:

• Support the key person system, maintaining observations, assessments and learning journeys.
• Develop strong working relationships with your team and families.
• Work within safeguarding policies to ensure children’s safety and wellbeing.
• Plan and deliver learning experiences for children with a wide range of needs, under the guidance of the Setting Curriculum Lead and Senco.
• Attend all staff meetings and training as required.

Minimum qualifications and experience:

• Level 3 full and relevant early years or childcare qualification.
• Experience of meeting the Early Years Foundation Stage and a commitment to continued professional development.

Additional preferences:

• Forest school qualification, or willingness to undertake forest school training once in the role.
• Experience working outdoors with children.
• Commitment to supporting and developing children’s learning in both indoor and outdoor environments.

Salary: £12.45 to £13.00 per hour based on a 16 hour working week.

Part‑time (16 hours per week). Statutory holiday pay, up to 1 week paid during term time. Small staff discount on nursery fees and a small uniform allowance. Admin time for collating observations and learning journeys.

The close date for this role is 30.06.2026. Interviews will be offered to suitable candidates as applications come in – we recommend applying early.

To apply, please email  or call