Job Title: Forest School Leader - Award-Winning Nursery Group
_Location:_ Horsham, West Sussex
_Salary:_ Up to £28,000 per year
_Job Type:_ Full-time, Permanent
Top Staff Perks
Work Outdoors Every Day
All-Expenses-Paid International CPD Trips
Wellbeing Support + Real Career Growth
About the Role
Little Barn Owls Nursery Group - 2024 Nursery World Award Winner - is looking for a passionate and energetic Forest School Leader to bring the magic of the outdoors to life for our children.
If you love muddy boots, campfires, bug hunts and inspiring young minds in nature, this is your dream job.
You'll deliver exceptional forest school sessions in beautiful woodland and farm-based settings as part of our unique Reggio Emilia and nature-inspired curriculum.
What You'll Be Doing
Lead daily Forest School sessions with small groups of children
Create exciting, safe, and engaging outdoor learning experiences
Support child-led exploration and risk-taking through nature
Encourage resilience, curiosity, and confidence in children
Collaborate with educators and leadership to embed outdoor learning across the curriculum
Maintain tools, fire pits, outdoor resources and woodland areas
Promote a deep respect for the environment through hands-on experience
What You'll Need
Forest School Leader qualification (Level 3 or equivalent)
Experience delivering outdoor sessions for children
Knowledge of risk assessment , bushcraft and nature-based learning
Level 3 childcare qualification (desirable but not essential)
Passion for Early Years, nature, and outdoor education
A calm, confident presence and playful, can-do attitude
Understanding of EYFS and safeguarding practices
Your Development
After a 3-month induction, you'll join our Little Barn Owls Training Academy , completing specialist modules focused on outdoor learning, leadership and reflective practice - with 1:1 mentoring throughout.
You'll also have opportunities for international CPD trips and further leadership development.
Why Join Us?
Up to £28,000 salary
All-expenses-paid CPD trips abroad
33 days holiday (incl. bank holidays)
80% childcare discount
Seasonal bonuses + long-service rewards
Buy/sell holiday scheme
Staff socials, wellbeing support & reward schemes
Beautiful, natural settings with purpose-built forest spaces
Work alongside artists, educators, and creative teams
Clear career progression routes in a supportive, award-winning team
Working Hours
Monday to Friday, 7:30am - 6:00pm (rotas apply)
Full-time only, 51 weeks per year
Need to Know
Enhanced DBS check and references required
We're proud to be an equal opportunities employer
Committed to safeguarding and child protection
About Little Barn Owls
We run four award-winning, Reggio Emilia-inspired nurseries across West Sussex, blending creativity, nature and child-led learning.
_Nursery World UK Nursery Group of the Year 2020_
_UK Nursery of the Year 2015_
_Winner - Enabling Environments 2024_
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £27,000.00-£32,000.00 per year
Benefits:
Company pension
Employee discount
On-site parking
Referral programme
Sick pay
Schedule:
Monday to Friday
No weekends
Ability to commute/relocate:
West Sussex: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Experience:
Forest School Leader: 1 year (required)
Language:
English (required)
Licence/Certification:
Forest School - Level 3 or above (required)
Work Location: In person
_Location: Horsham, West Sussex_
_Salary: £27,000 to £32,000 per year_
_Job Type: Full-time, Permanent_
Join Our Award-Winning Nursery Group!
Little Barn Owls Nursery Group, based in West Sussex, was recently crowned Nursery World's 2024 Winner for Enabling Environments - and we're now hiring an enthusiastic Deputy Room Leader to join our team!
This is a unique opportunity to work in a Reggio Emilia-inspired , Forest & Farm School setting that truly puts children, creativity, and nature first.
What You'll Be Doing:
As a Room Leader, you'll lead a team of educators and guide daily learning experiences for children aged 6 months to 5 years. Your role will be hands-on, creative, and full of outdoor adventures.
Key Responsibilities:
Support in leading and managing a room team to deliver outstanding childcare
Support to plan and deliver engaging, age-appropriate activities
Support, mentor, and motivate your team members
Maintain a safe, nurturing, and well-organised environment
Build meaningful relationships with children and their families
Take on key person duties including documentation and observations
Reflect regularly to improve practices and outcomes
Work closely with leadership to meet and exceed EYFS standards
What We're Looking For:
Level 3 (or higher) childcare qualification
Experience in an early years setting (leadership experience a bonus)
Sound knowledge of the EYFS and safeguarding procedures
A genuine passion for child development and outdoor learning
Positive, proactive mindset and excellent team spirit
Familiarity with the Reggio Emilia approach (training provided if not)
Development & Training:
All new Deputy Room Leaders are enrolled in our in-house Training Academy (after a 3-month induction), where you'll complete a 12-module development programme supported by a mentor.
You'll also have opportunities for international CPD , artist collaboration, and leadership training.
What We Offer:
Up to £32,000 salary
80% childcare discount
All-expenses-paid international training trips
33 days annual leave (incl. bank holidays)
Seasonal bonuses and long-service rewards
Employee wellbeing programme, EAP & cash health plan
Option to buy/sell annual leave
Staff social events, fun days, and meals out
Career progression within an award-winning group
Work with professional Atelieristas (artists) in beautiful creative studios
Working Hours:
Monday to Friday, between 7:30am - 6:00pm
Full-time only (we do not currently offer term-time or school-hour roles)
Important Info:
All applicants require an Enhanced DBS check and references
We are an equal opportunities employer and committed to safeguarding children and staff
About Us:
Little Barn Owls operates four unique and inspiring nurseries across West Sussex. We are proud of our Reggio Emilia, forest school, and farm school influences , with a strong focus on creativity, child-led exploration, and emotional wellbeing.
_UK Nursery Group of the Year - Nursery World 2020_
_UK Nursery of the Year - Nursery World 2015_
Apply Now on Indeed and start your next big adventure with Little Barn Owls. We can't wait to meet you!
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £27,000.00-£32,000.00 per year
Benefits:
Additional leave
Childcare
Company events
Company pension
Discounted or free food
Employee discount
Employee mentoring programme
Free parking
Health & wellbeing programme
On-site parking
Referral programme
Sick pay
Schedule:
Day shift
Monday to Friday
Application question(s):
Do you hold a Level 3 qualification in childcare?
Experience:
Childcare: 2 years (preferred)
Work authorisation:
United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP The Country Mouse Nursery in Midhurst is now part of the Little Barn Owls Forest and Farm School Nursery Group.
_ What does this role require? _
We require someone with a minimum of two years' experience as a Room Leader, with experience leading and inspiring a team to success.
You will need strong leadership skills with the ability to positively inspire others and work collaboratively with your team to provide a safe, stimulating and secure environment for all children in your care. You'll need to have a passion for providing high-quality care and education for children, as well as being a team player. Above all, you'll need to be FUN, full of energy and enthusiastic with the desire to inspire those around you to collectively strive for excellence.
Other key attributes include:
Critical and creative thinker who welcomes a challenge and thrives on problem-solving
An inspirational leader with high impact, professionalism and credibility
Robust and commercially astute - commercially and cost-conscious with the ability to ensure results are achieved through innovation that adds value and gives a return on investment
Able to communicate effectively at all levels (parents, children, colleagues and senior management)
Strong interpersonal, influencing and presentation skills
Naturally proactive and keen to add value
A minimum of Level 3 in Childcare and Education.
_ The role of the Room Leader _
In this role, you will be a Room Leader with responsibilities which include coordinating your team throughout the day, delivering engaging and educational activities for children to support their development and supporting staff to create a positive and inspiring learning environment.
You'll need to be willing to take part in regular training and professional development sessions - we have a passion for CPD, and there are plenty of opportunities for all employees to take part and extend their knowledge and development. You'll build strong relationships with children, parents, and colleagues, role-modelling key Parent Partnership skills to your team, ensuring a good connection between home and nursery. All leaders within Little Barn Owls are expected to play an active role in our nursery's growth and development plan
Working as part of a team alongside Managers, Pedagogical Coordinators, Atelieristas, and Educators, you'll need organisational skills and a passion for delivering high standards to collaboratively strive for excellence.
Our nurseries are predominantly child-led and our curriculum is emergent, so you'll need to think on your feet and be in tune with children to extend their learning in the moment.
With the new Little Barn Owls Training Academy, all employees will enrol onto our in-house training and development programme, specially designed for Outstanding Early Years Educators. As part of your programme, you will complete 12 self-evidenced units, supported by a 1:1 mentor.
Upon completion of 3 month induction
Pay: Up to £36,000
build your own salary with the LBO Training Academy
Important information:
Our nurseries operate 51 weeks per year, 7.30 am - 6 pm Monday-Friday.
We are not currently able to offer school hours or term-time only positions.
Our policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons without regard to race, creed, colour, religious belief, sex, age, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, or veteran status.
We are committed to safeguarding our children and staff. You will be required to have an enhanced DBS check and suitable references.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
_ Benefits of a Little Barn Owls Career _
_ Industry leading salaries, reward and recognition programme. _
_ ALL EXPENSES PAID international CPD for qualified staff._
_ 80% childcare discount _
_Seasonal bonuses_
Our innovative and creative _ Reggio Emilia inspired, Forest and Farm School Nursery Group _has been recognised for their approach to Early Years Education around the world. Nurturing confident, caring and curious children is our passion and our promise.
We have five INCREDIBLE and unique nurseries. We employ professional artists in each nursery to work with children, enabling their enquiring minds to develop, in dedicated creative studios which are called Ateliers.
Awarded Nursery World's UK Nursery Group of the Year 2020
Awarded UK Nursery of the Year 2015
Our fantastic benefits package includes:
Amazing all expenses paid international breaks to inspire our qualified Educators and Artists
A huge reduction of 80% off childcare fees
A Christmas shopping loyalty bonus
Regular monetary reward and recognition schemes
Wellbeing centre which includes employee contributed Healthcare Cash plan and access to Employee Assistance Programme.
The option of buying and selling annual leave
SmartSpending - discounts and money off over 800 retailers and suppliers
Caring, supportive environment and culture
Generous holiday entitlement of 33 days inclusive of bank holidays
Long service rewards of £1000
Working alongside professional expert consultants
Team building fun days, meals out, and social events
Career progression
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £28,000.00-£36,000.00 per year
Benefits:
Childcare
Company events
Company pension
Discounted or free food
Employee discount
Employee mentoring programme
Free parking
On-site parking
Sick pay
Schedule:
Monday to Friday
Application question(s):
Why do you want to work at Little Barn Owls Nurseries?
Language:
fluent English (required)
Licence/Certification:
Driving Licence (preferred)
Early Years Qualification 3 and above? (required)
Work authorisation:
United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
_Location: Horsham, West Sussex_
_Salary: £27,000 to £32,000 per year_
_Job Type: Full-time, Permanent_
Join Our Award-Winning Nursery Group!
Little Barn Owls Nursery Group, based in West Sussex, was recently crowned *Nursery World’s 2024 Winner for Enabling Environments* — and we’re now hiring an enthusiastic *Deputy* *Room Leader* to join our team!
This is a unique opportunity to work in a *Reggio Emilia-inspired*, Forest & Farm School setting that truly puts children, creativity, and nature first.
What You'll Be Doing:
As a Room Leader, you’ll lead a team of educators and guide daily learning experiences for children aged 6 months to 5 years. Your role will be hands-on, creative, and full of outdoor adventures.
*Key Responsibilities:*
* Support in leading and managing a room team to deliver outstanding childcare
* Support to plan and deliver engaging, age-appropriate activities
* Support, mentor, and motivate your team members
* Maintain a safe, nurturing, and well-organised environment
* Build meaningful relationships with children and their families
* Take on key person duties including documentation and observations
* Reflect regularly to improve practices and outcomes
* Work closely with leadership to meet and exceed EYFS standards
What We're Looking For:
* *Level 3 (or higher) childcare qualification*
* Experience in an early years setting (leadership experience a bonus)
* Sound knowledge of the *EYFS* and safeguarding procedures
* A genuine passion for child development and outdoor learning
* Positive, proactive mindset and excellent team spirit
* Familiarity with the *Reggio Emilia approach* (training provided if not)
Development & Training:
All new Deputy Room Leaders are enrolled in our *in-house Training Academy* (after a 3-month induction), where you’ll complete a 12-module development programme supported by a mentor.
You’ll also have opportunities for *international CPD*, artist collaboration, and leadership training.
What We Offer:
* *Up to £32,000 salary*
* *80% childcare discount*
* *All-expenses-paid international training trips*
* *33 days annual leave* (incl. bank holidays)
* Seasonal bonuses and long-service rewards
* Employee wellbeing programme, EAP & cash health plan
* Option to buy/sell annual leave
* Staff social events, fun days, and meals out
* Career progression within an award-winning group
* Work with professional *Atelieristas* (artists) in beautiful creative studios
Working Hours:
* Monday to Friday, between 7:30am – 6:00pm
* Full-time only (we do not currently offer term-time or school-hour roles)
Important Info:
* All applicants require an *Enhanced DBS check* and references
* We are an *equal opportunities employer* and committed to safeguarding children and staff
About Us:
Little Barn Owls operates four unique and inspiring nurseries across West Sussex. We are proud of our *Reggio Emilia, forest school, and farm school influences*, with a strong focus on creativity, child-led exploration, and emotional wellbeing.
_UK Nursery Group of the Year – Nursery World 2020_
_UK Nursery of the Year – Nursery World 2015_
*Apply Now* on Indeed and start your next big adventure with Little Barn Owls. We can’t wait to meet you!
#INDRL
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £27,000.00-£32,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Additional leave
* Childcare
* Company events
* Company pension
* Discounted or free food
* Employee discount
* Employee mentoring programme
* Free parking
* Health & wellbeing programme
* On-site parking
* Referral programme
* Sick pay
Schedule:
* Day shift
* Monday to Friday
Application question(s):
* Do you hold a Level 3 qualification in childcare?
Experience:
* Childcare: 2 years (preferred)
Work authorisation:
* United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
_Location: Horsham, West Sussex_ _Salary: £28,000 to £36,000 per year_ _Job Type: Full-time, Permanent_
Join Our Award-Winning Nursery Group!
Little Barn Owls Nursery Group, based in West Sussex, was recently crowned *Nursery World’s 2024 Winner for Enabling Environments* — and we’re now hiring an enthusiastic *Room Leader* to join our team!
This is a unique opportunity to work in a *Reggio Emilia-inspired*, Forest & Farm School setting that truly puts children, creativity, and nature first.
What You'll Be Doing:
As a Room Leader, you’ll lead a team of educators and guide daily learning experiences for children aged 6 months to 5 years. Your role will be hands-on, creative, and full of outdoor adventures.
*Key Responsibilities:* * Lead and manage a room team to deliver outstanding childcare * Plan and deliver engaging, age-appropriate activities * Support, mentor, and motivate your team members * Maintain a safe, nurturing, and well-organised environment * Build meaningful relationships with children and their families * Take on key person duties including documentation and observations * Reflect regularly to improve practices and outcomes * Work closely with leadership to meet and exceed EYFS standards
What We're Looking For: * *Level 3 (or higher) childcare qualification* * Experience in an early years setting (leadership experience a bonus) * Sound knowledge of the *EYFS* and safeguarding procedures * A genuine passion for child development and outdoor learning * Positive, proactive mindset and excellent team spirit * Familiarity with the *Reggio Emilia approach* (training provided if not)
Development & Training:
All new Room Leaders are enrolled in our *in-house Training Academy* (after a 3-month induction), where you’ll complete a 12-module development programme supported by a mentor.
You’ll also have opportunities for *international CPD*, artist collaboration, and leadership training.
What We Offer: * *Up to £36,000 salary* * *80% childcare discount* * *All-expenses-paid international training trips* * *33 days annual leave* (incl. bank holidays) * Seasonal bonuses and long-service rewards * Employee wellbeing programme, EAP & cash health plan * Option to buy/sell annual leave * Staff social events, fun days, and meals out * Career progression within an award-winning group * Work with professional *Atelieristas* (artists) in beautiful creative studios
Working Hours: * Monday to Friday, between 7:30am – 6:00pm * Full-time only (we do not currently offer term-time or school-hour roles)
Important Info: * All applicants require an *Enhanced DBS check* and references * We are an *equal opportunities employer* and committed to safeguarding children and staff
About Us:
Little Barn Owls operates four unique and inspiring nurseries across West Sussex. We are proud of our *Reggio Emilia, forest school, and farm school influences*, with a strong focus on creativity, child-led exploration, and emotional wellbeing.
_UK Nursery Group of the Year – Nursery World 2020_ _UK Nursery of the Year – Nursery World 2015_
*Apply Now* on Indeed and start your next big adventure with Little Barn Owls. We can’t wait to meet you!
#INDRL
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £28,000.00-£36,000.
* UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP * The *Country Mouse Nursery* in Midhurst is now part of the *Little Barn Owls Forest and Farm School Nursery Group.*
_*What does this role require?*_
We require someone with a minimum of two years' experience as a Room Leader, with experience leading and inspiring a team to success.
You will need strong leadership skills with the ability to positively inspire others and work collaboratively with your team to provide a safe, stimulating and secure environment for all children in your care. You’ll need to have a passion for providing high-quality care and education for children, as well as being a team player. Above all, you’ll need to be FUN, full of energy and enthusiastic with the desire to inspire those around you to collectively strive for excellence.
Other key attributes include: * Critical and creative thinker who welcomes a challenge and thrives on problem-solving * An inspirational leader with high impact, professionalism and credibility * Robust and commercially astute – commercially and cost-conscious with the ability to ensure results are achieved through innovation that adds value and gives a return on investment * Able to communicate effectively at all levels (parents, children, colleagues and senior management) * Strong interpersonal, influencing and presentation skills * Naturally proactive and keen to add value * A minimum of Level 3 in Childcare and Education.
_*The role of the Room Leader*_
In this role, you will be a Room Leader with responsibilities which include coordinating your team throughout the day, delivering engaging and educational activities for children to support their development and supporting staff to create a positive and inspiring learning environment.
You’ll need to be willing to take part in regular training and professional development sessions – we have a passion for CPD, and there are plenty of opportunities for all employees to take part and extend their knowledge and development. You’ll build strong relationships with children, parents, and colleagues, role-modelling key Parent Partnership skills to your team, ensuring a good connection between home and nursery. All leaders within Little Barn Owls are expected to play an active role in our nursery’s growth and development plan
Working as part of a team alongside Managers, Pedagogical Coordinators, Atelieristas, and Educators, you’ll need organisational skills and a passion for delivering high standards to collaboratively strive for excellence.
Our nurseries are predominantly child-led and our curriculum is emergent, so you’ll need to think on your feet and be in tune with children to extend their learning in the moment.
With the new Little Barn Owls Training Academy, all employees will enrol* onto our in-house training and development programme, specially designed for Outstanding Early Years Educators. As part of your programme, you will complete 12 self-evidenced units, supported by a 1:1 mentor.
*Upon completion of 3 month induction
Pay: Up to £36,000
*build your own salary with the LBO Training Academy*
*Important information:* * Our nurseries operate 51 weeks per year, 7.30 am - 6 pm Monday-Friday. * We are not currently able to offer school hours or term-time only positions. * Our policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons without regard to race, creed, colour, religious belief, sex, age, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, or veteran status. * We are committed to safeguarding our children and staff. You will be required to have an enhanced DBS check and suitable references.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
_*Benefits of a Little Barn Owls Career*_ * _*Industry leading salaries, reward and recognition programme.*_ * _*ALL EXPENSES PAID*_ _international CPD for qualified staff._ * _*80% childcare discount*_ * _Seasonal bonuses_
Our innovative and creative _*Reggio Emilia inspired, Forest and Farm School Nursery Group *_has been recognised for their approach to Early Years Education around the world. Nurturing confident, caring and curious children is our passion and our promise.
We have five INCREDIBLE and unique nurseries. We employ professional artists in each nursery to work with children, enabling their enquiring minds to develop, in dedicated creative studios which are called Ateliers.
***Awarded Nursery World’s UK Nursery Group of the Year 2020***
*** Awarded UK Nursery of the Year 2015***
*Our fantastic benefits package includes:* * Amazing *all expenses paid* international breaks to inspire our qualified Educators and Artists * A huge reduction of *80% off childcare* fees * A Christmas shopping loyalty bonus * Regular monetary reward and recognition schemes * Wellbeing centre which includes employee contributed Healthcare Cash plan and access to Employee Assistance Programme. * The option of buying and selling annual leave * SmartSpending – discounts and money off over 800 retailers and suppliers * Caring, supportive environment and culture * Generous holiday entitlement of 33 days inclusive of bank holidays * Long service rewards of £1000 * Working alongside professional expert consultants * Team building fun days, meals out, and social events * Career progression
#INDRL
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £28,000.00-£36,000.
_Location: Horsham, West Sussex_ _Salary: £27,000 to £32,000 per year_ _Job Type: Full-time, Permanent_
Join Our Award-Winning Nursery Group!
Little Barn Owls Nursery Group, based in West Sussex, was recently crowned *Nursery World’s 2024 Winner for Enabling Environments* — and we’re now hiring an enthusiastic *Deputy* *Room Leader* to join our team!
This is a unique opportunity to work in a *Reggio Emilia-inspired*, Forest & Farm School setting that truly puts children, creativity, and nature first.
What You'll Be Doing:
As a Room Leader, you’ll lead a team of educators and guide daily learning experiences for children aged 6 months to 5 years. Your role will be hands-on, creative, and full of outdoor adventures.
*Key Responsibilities:* * Support in leading and managing a room team to deliver outstanding childcare * Support to plan and deliver engaging, age-appropriate activities * Support, mentor, and motivate your team members * Maintain a safe, nurturing, and well-organised environment * Build meaningful relationships with children and their families * Take on key person duties including documentation and observations * Reflect regularly to improve practices and outcomes * Work closely with leadership to meet and exceed EYFS standards
What We're Looking For: * *Level 3 (or higher) childcare qualification* * Experience in an early years setting (leadership experience a bonus) * Sound knowledge of the *EYFS* and safeguarding procedures * A genuine passion for child development and outdoor learning * Positive, proactive mindset and excellent team spirit * Familiarity with the *Reggio Emilia approach* (training provided if not)
Development & Training:
All new Deputy Room Leaders are enrolled in our *in-house Training Academy* (after a 3-month induction), where you’ll complete a 12-module development programme supported by a mentor.
You’ll also have opportunities for *international CPD*, artist collaboration, and leadership training.
What We Offer: * *Up to £32,000 salary* * *80% childcare discount* * *All-expenses-paid international training trips* * *33 days annual leave* (incl. bank holidays) * Seasonal bonuses and long-service rewards * Employee wellbeing programme, EAP & cash health plan * Option to buy/sell annual leave * Staff social events, fun days, and meals out * Career progression within an award-winning group * Work with professional *Atelieristas* (artists) in beautiful creative studios
Working Hours: * Monday to Friday, between 7:30am – 6:00pm * Full-time only (we do not currently offer term-time or school-hour roles)
Important Info: * All applicants require an *Enhanced DBS check* and references * We are an *equal opportunities employer* and committed to safeguarding children and staff
About Us:
Little Barn Owls operates four unique and inspiring nurseries across West Sussex. We are proud of our *Reggio Emilia, forest school, and farm school influences*, with a strong focus on creativity, child-led exploration, and emotional wellbeing.
_UK Nursery Group of the Year – Nursery World 2020_ _UK Nursery of the Year – Nursery World 2015_
*Apply Now* on Indeed and start your next big adventure with Little Barn Owls. We can’t wait to meet you!
#INDRL
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £27,000.00-£32,000.
*Job Title:* Forest School Leader – Award-Winning Nursery Group
_Location:_ Horsham, West Sussex
_Salary:_ Up to £28,000 per year
_Job Type:_ Full-time, Permanent
Top Staff Perks
*Work Outdoors Every Day*
*All-Expenses-Paid International CPD Trips*
*Wellbeing Support + Real Career Growth*
About the Role
Little Barn Owls Nursery Group – *2024 Nursery World Award Winner* – is looking for a passionate and energetic *Forest School Leader* to bring the magic of the outdoors to life for our children.
If you love muddy boots, campfires, bug hunts and inspiring young minds in nature, this is your dream job.
You’ll deliver exceptional forest school sessions in beautiful woodland and farm-based settings as part of our unique Reggio Emilia and nature-inspired curriculum.
What You'll Be Doing
* Lead daily *Forest School sessions* with small groups of children
* Create exciting, safe, and engaging outdoor learning experiences
* Support child-led exploration and risk-taking through nature
* Encourage resilience, curiosity, and confidence in children
* Collaborate with educators and leadership to embed outdoor learning across the curriculum
* Maintain tools, fire pits, outdoor resources and woodland areas
* Promote a deep respect for the environment through hands-on experience
What You’ll Need
* *Forest School Leader qualification (Level 3 or equivalent)*
* Experience delivering outdoor sessions for children
* Knowledge of *risk assessment*, bushcraft and nature-based learning
* *Level 3 childcare qualification* (desirable but not essential)
* Passion for Early Years, nature, and outdoor education
* A calm, confident presence and playful, can-do attitude
* Understanding of *EYFS* and safeguarding practices
Your Development
After a 3-month induction, you’ll join our *Little Barn Owls Training Academy*, completing specialist modules focused on outdoor learning, leadership and reflective practice — with 1:1 mentoring throughout.
You'll also have opportunities for *international CPD trips* and further leadership development.
Why Join Us?
* *Up to £28,000 salary*
* *All-expenses-paid CPD trips abroad*
* *33 days holiday* (incl. bank holidays)
* *80% childcare discount*
* Seasonal bonuses + long-service rewards
* Buy/sell holiday scheme
* Staff socials, wellbeing support & reward schemes
* Beautiful, natural settings with purpose-built forest spaces
* Work alongside artists, educators, and creative teams
* Clear career progression routes in a supportive, award-winning team
Working Hours
* Monday to Friday, 7:30am – 6:00pm (rotas apply)
* Full-time only, 51 weeks per year
Need to Know
* Enhanced *DBS check and references* required
* We’re proud to be an *equal opportunities employer*
* Committed to *safeguarding and child protection*
About Little Barn Owls
We run four award-winning, Reggio Emilia-inspired nurseries across West Sussex, blending creativity, nature and child-led learning.
_Nursery World UK Nursery Group of the Year 2020_
_UK Nursery of the Year 2015_
_Winner – Enabling Environments 2024_
#INDRL
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £27,000.00-£32,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Company pension
* Employee discount
* On-site parking
* Referral programme
* Sick pay
Schedule:
* Monday to Friday
* No weekends
Ability to commute/relocate:
* West Sussex: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Experience:
* Forest School Leader: 1 year (required)
Language:
* English (required)
Licence/Certification:
* Forest School - Level 3 or above (required)
Work Location: In person
_Location: Horsham, West Sussex_
_Salary: £28,000 to £36,000 per year_
_Job Type: Full-time, Permanent_
Join Our Award-Winning Nursery Group!
Little Barn Owls Nursery Group, based in West Sussex, was recently crowned *Nursery World’s 2024 Winner for Enabling Environments* — and we’re now hiring an enthusiastic *Room Leader* to join our team!
This is a unique opportunity to work in a *Reggio Emilia-inspired*, Forest & Farm School setting that truly puts children, creativity, and nature first.
What You'll Be Doing:
As a Room Leader, you’ll lead a team of educators and guide daily learning experiences for children aged 6 months to 5 years. Your role will be hands-on, creative, and full of outdoor adventures.
*Key Responsibilities:*
* Lead and manage a room team to deliver outstanding childcare
* Plan and deliver engaging, age-appropriate activities
* Support, mentor, and motivate your team members
* Maintain a safe, nurturing, and well-organised environment
* Build meaningful relationships with children and their families
* Take on key person duties including documentation and observations
* Reflect regularly to improve practices and outcomes
* Work closely with leadership to meet and exceed EYFS standards
What We're Looking For:
* *Level 3 (or higher) childcare qualification*
* Experience in an early years setting (leadership experience a bonus)
* Sound knowledge of the *EYFS* and safeguarding procedures
* A genuine passion for child development and outdoor learning
* Positive, proactive mindset and excellent team spirit
* Familiarity with the *Reggio Emilia approach* (training provided if not)
Development & Training:
All new Room Leaders are enrolled in our *in-house Training Academy* (after a 3-month induction), where you’ll complete a 12-module development programme supported by a mentor.
You’ll also have opportunities for *international CPD*, artist collaboration, and leadership training.
What We Offer:
* *Up to £36,000 salary*
* *80% childcare discount*
* *All-expenses-paid international training trips*
* *33 days annual leave* (incl. bank holidays)
* Seasonal bonuses and long-service rewards
* Employee wellbeing programme, EAP & cash health plan
* Option to buy/sell annual leave
* Staff social events, fun days, and meals out
* Career progression within an award-winning group
* Work with professional *Atelieristas* (artists) in beautiful creative studios
Working Hours:
* Monday to Friday, between 7:30am – 6:00pm
* Full-time only (we do not currently offer term-time or school-hour roles)
Important Info:
* All applicants require an *Enhanced DBS check* and references
* We are an *equal opportunities employer* and committed to safeguarding children and staff
About Us:
Little Barn Owls operates four unique and inspiring nurseries across West Sussex. We are proud of our *Reggio Emilia, forest school, and farm school influences*, with a strong focus on creativity, child-led exploration, and emotional wellbeing.
_UK Nursery Group of the Year – Nursery World 2020_
_UK Nursery of the Year – Nursery World 2015_
*Apply Now* on Indeed and start your next big adventure with Little Barn Owls. We can’t wait to meet you!
#INDRL
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £28,000.00-£36,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Additional leave
* Childcare
* Company events
* Company pension
* Discounted or free food
* Employee discount
* Employee mentoring programme
* Free parking
* Health & wellbeing programme
* On-site parking
* Referral programme
* Sick pay
Schedule:
* Day shift
* Monday to Friday
Application question(s):
* Do you hold a Level 3 qualification in childcare?
Experience:
* Childcare: 2 years (preferred)
Work authorisation:
* United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
* UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP * The *Country Mouse Nursery* in Midhurst is now part of the *Little Barn Owls Forest and Farm School Nursery Group.*
_*What does this role require?*_
We require someone with a minimum of two years' experience as a Room Leader, with experience leading and inspiring a team to success.
You will need strong leadership skills with the ability to positively inspire others and work collaboratively with your team to provide a safe, stimulating and secure environment for all children in your care. You’ll need to have a passion for providing high-quality care and education for children, as well as being a team player. Above all, you’ll need to be FUN, full of energy and enthusiastic with the desire to inspire those around you to collectively strive for excellence.
Other key attributes include:
* Critical and creative thinker who welcomes a challenge and thrives on problem-solving
* An inspirational leader with high impact, professionalism and credibility
* Robust and commercially astute – commercially and cost-conscious with the ability to ensure results are achieved through innovation that adds value and gives a return on investment
* Able to communicate effectively at all levels (parents, children, colleagues and senior management)
* Strong interpersonal, influencing and presentation skills
* Naturally proactive and keen to add value
* A minimum of Level 3 in Childcare and Education.
_*The role of the Room Leader*_
In this role, you will be a Room Leader with responsibilities which include coordinating your team throughout the day, delivering engaging and educational activities for children to support their development and supporting staff to create a positive and inspiring learning environment.
You’ll need to be willing to take part in regular training and professional development sessions – we have a passion for CPD, and there are plenty of opportunities for all employees to take part and extend their knowledge and development. You’ll build strong relationships with children, parents, and colleagues, role-modelling key Parent Partnership skills to your team, ensuring a good connection between home and nursery. All leaders within Little Barn Owls are expected to play an active role in our nursery’s growth and development plan
Working as part of a team alongside Managers, Pedagogical Coordinators, Atelieristas, and Educators, you’ll need organisational skills and a passion for delivering high standards to collaboratively strive for excellence.
Our nurseries are predominantly child-led and our curriculum is emergent, so you’ll need to think on your feet and be in tune with children to extend their learning in the moment.
With the new Little Barn Owls Training Academy, all employees will enrol* onto our in-house training and development programme, specially designed for Outstanding Early Years Educators. As part of your programme, you will complete 12 self-evidenced units, supported by a 1:1 mentor.
*Upon completion of 3 month induction
Pay: Up to £36,000
*build your own salary with the LBO Training Academy*
*Important information:*
* Our nurseries operate 51 weeks per year, 7.30 am - 6 pm Monday-Friday.
* We are not currently able to offer school hours or term-time only positions.
* Our policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons without regard to race, creed, colour, religious belief, sex, age, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, or veteran status.
* We are committed to safeguarding our children and staff. You will be required to have an enhanced DBS check and suitable references.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
_*Benefits of a Little Barn Owls Career*_
* _*Industry leading salaries, reward and recognition programme.*_
* _*ALL EXPENSES PAID*_ _international CPD for qualified staff._
* _*80% childcare discount*_
* _Seasonal bonuses_
Our innovative and creative _*Reggio Emilia inspired, Forest and Farm School Nursery Group *_has been recognised for their approach to Early Years Education around the world. Nurturing confident, caring and curious children is our passion and our promise.
We have five INCREDIBLE and unique nurseries. We employ professional artists in each nursery to work with children, enabling their enquiring minds to develop, in dedicated creative studios which are called Ateliers.
***Awarded Nursery World’s UK Nursery Group of the Year 2020***
*** Awarded UK Nursery of the Year 2015***
*Our fantastic benefits package includes:*
* Amazing *all expenses paid* international breaks to inspire our qualified Educators and Artists
* A huge reduction of *80% off childcare* fees
* A Christmas shopping loyalty bonus
* Regular monetary reward and recognition schemes
* Wellbeing centre which includes employee contributed Healthcare Cash plan and access to Employee Assistance Programme.
* The option of buying and selling annual leave
* SmartSpending – discounts and money off over 800 retailers and suppliers
* Caring, supportive environment and culture
* Generous holiday entitlement of 33 days inclusive of bank holidays
* Long service rewards of £1000
* Working alongside professional expert consultants
* Team building fun days, meals out, and social events
* Career progression
#INDRL
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £28,000.00-£36,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Childcare
* Company events
* Company pension
* Discounted or free food
* Employee discount
* Employee mentoring programme
* Free parking
* On-site parking
* Sick pay
Schedule:
* Monday to Friday
Application question(s):
* Why do you want to work at Little Barn Owls Nurseries?
Language:
* fluent English (required)
Licence/Certification:
* Driving Licence (preferred)
* Early Years Qualification 3 and above? (required)
Work authorisation:
* United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
