Forest School Leader/HLTA

Permanent, term time only

37 hours per week, 8 am 4 pm with an early finish one day per week

Grade7 - FTE £32,061 - £36,362 actual £27,560 - £31,257

Required From September 2026

St Mark's CE School is one whole school community, where we create a sense of belonging for all who enter our school Our ethos of nurture and high standards and expectations will be modelled through the school by excellent staff.

We are seeking an enthusiastic and committed practitioner to lead and deliver our Forest School provision, predominantly within the primary phase, alongside

targeted Forest School based interventions to support identified pupils in the secondary phase.

To be successful in this role, you will be passionate about outdoor learning and its impact on pupil wellbeing, confident in leading and managing groups of pupils, and

able to organise your time effectively to balance Forest School delivery, preparation and wider school responsibilities You will be proactive, flexible and committed to

supporting pupils to achieve positive outcomes.

Responsibilities Will Include

Planning, leading and delivering high quality Forest School sessions, primarily for primary aged pupils Delivering targeted interventions for identified pupils in the secondary phase Using outdoor learning to support pupils' social, emotional, behavioural and physical development Creating and maintaining a safe, engaging and inclusive outdoor learning environment Adapting activities to meet the needs of individuals and small groups, including pupils with additional needs Working collaboratively with teaching and pastoral staff to support intervention planning, delivery and evaluation of pupil outcomes Liaising with teachers and relevant staff to plan, review and refine provision for groups and individual pupils Monitoring and providing feedback on pupil engagement and progress, contributing to the assessment of intervention impact Providing some primary classroom cover, including planned or short term cover when required Upholding high standards of behaviour, health and safety, and safeguarding at all times We are looking for someone who: Has experience working with children, ideally within a primary or all through setting Has a strong interest in Forest School and outdoor learning (training will be provided) Is confident leading groups independently and managing outdoor learning sessions Is flexible, organised and able to build positive relationships with pupils and staff Has a clear understanding of safeguarding and child protection

Why Join us?

A strong Christian ethos where love, service, and belonging are lived daily A supportive senior leadership team that values pastoral work A school community where pupils are known, valued, and listened to Opportunities to shape and strengthen whole-school pastoral practice A role that balances strategic leadership with meaningful pupil contact

What We Offer

Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme Secure on-site car parking Access to an Employee Assistance Programme, including confidential 24/7 counselling support Access to a Benefits Hub, offering a range of discounts and offers Occupational Health support On-site hot and cold food options Access to online training and personal development courses The opportunity to work in a brand-new, high-specification school environment Career development opportunities within a supportive organisation

This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated professional to make a meaningful contribution within a caring and ambitious school community.

How To Apply

Closing date: 11:55pm on Friday 19th June 2026

Applications can be made through TES or directly via the school website:

Please Return Completed Applications To

Unfortunately, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role.

We reserve the right to call candidates for interview and appoint to the role before the closing date.

Safeguarding Statement

St Mark's Church of England School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to appropriate pre-employment checks, including an enhanced DBS check.

Southampton City Council is an equal opportunities employer.