Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage the day-to-day operation of the setting, ensuring it runs smoothly, safely, and in line with its ethos
- Lead and inspire a small, passionate team of four staff, including one completing a Level 3 qualification under your supervision.
- Ensure the highest standards of care, safeguarding and educational delivery.
- Oversee curriculum planning across Tiny Wilds, Mighty Wilds, and Magic Mighties, ensuring consistency and progression
- Maintain clear, accurate, and up-to-date records in line with EYFS and Ofsted requirements
- Modelling excellent practice and supporting staff development through regular in class mentoring.
- Plan and deliver engaging, nature-based learning experiences both outdoors and indoors
- Ensure effective communication across the team, including handovers, updates, and shared responsibilities
- Build and maintain strong, professional relationships with families, supporting a positive and engaged community
- Liaise with external professionals, schools, and local authorities where required
- Organise events and opportunities for families to engage with the setting
- Administrating the enrolment process for new children, and session changes for existing children.
- Oversee resourcing and budgeting across the setting, ensuring efficient and considered use of materials
- Manage enrolment, attendance, and funding processes (including DCC provider portal)
- Work collaboratively with the Beden estate team to ensure safe and appropriate use of land, buildings, and resources
- Contribute to the ongoing development and improvement of the provision
Essential Experience & Qualifications
- Level 6 in Early Years or childcare
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or relevant primary experience desirable
- Proven experience in a leadership or management role within an early years or primary education setting
- Experience leading a team, including mentoring or supervising staff
- Strong understanding of EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage) and primary curriculum for ages 5 - 8
- Knowledge of safeguarding legislation, Ofsted requirements, and health & safety in educational settings
- Current Clear Advanced DBS check
- Fluent in English
- Driving with full licence
- Essential Skills & Attributes
- Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
- Clear, confident communication and decision-making ability
- Strong organisational skills and ability to manage a dynamic workload
- High level of personal responsibility and accountability
- Calm and proactive approach to problem solving
- Resilience, adaptability, and a positive, professional attitude
- Energy, enthusiasm, stamina, patience, dedication, resilience and self-discipline
- Initiative, leadership, supervisory skills and team working abilities
- Imagination, creativity and a sense of humour
- Good judgement and an analytical mind
- A satisfactory health record and criminal record check
- Ability to maintain consistency, structure, and attention to detail
Desirable Experience
- Experience in alternative or non-traditional education settings
- Familiarity with nature-based, creative, or holistic learning approaches
- Level 3 Forest School Leader qualification
- Knowledge and experience of supporting children with additional needs
- Experience developing or improving an educational setting
- Interest in land-based learning, sustainability, or outdoor education
Benefits
- Health & Wellness Package
- Comprehensive BUPA Wellbeing Package with 24/7 support and access to scheduled counselling sessions
- Aviva Pension Scheme
- 28 days holiday, inclusive of bank holidays
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Perkbox Membership
- Company Events & Team Activities
- Work in a stunning natural environment with hands-on, nature-based learning opportunities