Job Description

We are currently seeking an experienced and passionate individual to deliver engaging outdoor learning experiences for our children within our well regarded and very popular Forest School provision. The successful candidate will create a safe, inclusive, and inspiring environment that supports holistic development through child-led, nature-based learning.

The job description, pay scale and scope of the role offered will be determined by the experience and qualification of the appointed applicant.

Forest School Assistant - Scale 4

The appointed candidate will be tasked with leading the forest school provision day-to-day but does not yet hold the relevant qualifications.

Qualified Forest School Lead - Scale 5

The appointed candidate will hold a Level 3 Forest School qualification and in addition to leading the provision day-to-day the role will include responsibility for directing other staff and volunteers appropriately.

Qualified Forest School Manager - Scale 6

The appointed candidate will hold a Level 3 Forest School qualification and in addition to leading the provision day-to-day the role will include considerable management responsibility for staff and volunteers plus budgetary responsibility.

At Canonium Learning Trust, we uphold values of Opportunity, Challenge, and Integrity, ensuring that every member of our community thrives. As a Forest School Assistant/ Lead, you will work in our dedicated outdoor learning space supporting our pupils' progress, helping develop their confidence and promoting enjoyment in their learning experience.

We are committed to investing in your training and development, providing you with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in your role. If you are not yet a qualified Forest School practitioner we are happy to support you whilst you work towards this.

We are looking for a proactive individual who is eager to learn and can inspire a love of learning in our pupils'. Your dedication and expertise will directly impact our ability to fulfill our mission and continue nurturing the potential and enthusiasm for learning in every child. Previous experience in supporting an outdoor learning environment would be beneficial but not essential.

This role is offered initially on a one year fixed-term basis working 5 hours one day per week. The working hours are 9am - 3pm with an hour lunch break. The day of the week worked can be flexible and agreed with the sucessful applicant.

The actual salary for this post is as follows:

Scale 4 £3,024 per annum

Scale 5 £3,122per annum

Scale 6 £3,330per annum

Information about the School

St Michael's CE Primary Academy became part of the Canonium Learning Trust in 2024 when the predecessor school, Two Village Primary School, closed.

Canonium Learning Trust is a dynamic and supportive education trust specialising in small, rural, and village schools across North and Mid Essex. This partnership strengthens our commitment to delivering exceptional education while fostering collaboration and professional development for our staff.

At St Michael's we prioritise positive relationships, academic achievement, and spiritual development. Our team of teachers and support staff are passionate about nurturing a love for learning in every child, empowering them to reach their fullest potential academically, socially and spiritually. Our ambitious vision, coupled with the support of Canonium Learning Trust, marks the start of an exciting new era for our school, staff, and pupils.

Our small primary school, situated between Ramsey and Little Oakley, serves the local community, along with children from the wider Harwich and Dovercourt area.

🏆 Tes Trust of the Year 2025

Canonium Learning Trust is a charitable educational trust comprising a growing family of schools across Essex. We are proud to have been named "Tes Trust of the Year" (9 Schools or Fewer) in 2025, a national award that recognises excellence in education, innovation in leadership, and the power of community collaboration.

At the heart of our Trust is a shared belief that every child deserves the best possible education, regardless of the size or location of their school. We work relentlessly to nurture each child's potential and enthusiasm for learning, so that they leave our schools ready to embrace future challenges and make a positive contribution to society.

🔗 To learn more about Canonium Learning Trust - a Church of England Multi Academy Trust in Essex - please visit: https://www.canonium.org/multi-academy-trust-in-essex