Forest Kindergarten Assistant - Wildlings Forest Kindergarten
- Exeter, Teignbridge
- Multiple Terms
- £12.71 per hour, rising annually with inflation
Are you passionate about child-led learning, the great outdoors, and supporting children to thrive in nature?
We’re looking for a caring and enthusiastic Forest Kindergarten Assistant to join our warm and welcoming team at Wildlings Forest Kindergarten, a purely outdoor nursery based at our beautiful private woodland site near Exeter.
This role is perfect for someone who loves being outside in all weathers, has a nurturing approach, and is excited about inspiring little ones through nature play and exploration.
About the role
You’ll be supporting children aged 2.5 to 5 years old to learn, grow and connect with the natural world, following the ethos of true Scandinavian-style Forest Schools. Working alongside a passionate and experienced team, you’ll help create a fun, magical and meaningful Early Years experience through outdoor, play-based learning.
You’ll be a key person for a small group of children, building strong relationships, following their interests, and helping to guide their learning in our mud kitchens, woodland dens and leafy hideaways.
What we’re looking for
You don’t need to be a Forest School Leader (yet!) but experience with children and a love for the outdoors is essential.
Our ideal candidate will have:
- A relevant Level 2 or 3 Early Years qualification (or QTS) – is desirable but not essential
- A warm, caring nature and a love for supporting young children
- A real passion for nature play and outdoor learning
- A good understanding of the EYFS framework
- Bags of enthusiasm, creativity, and a 'muddy knees welcome' attitude!
- Great communication and teamwork skills
- Ability to withstand all that the weather throws at them & carry on smiling!
Why join A Touch of the Wild?
We truly value the people who care for our children, so we offer:
- A supportive, inspiring team environment
- Term-time only working for better work-life balance
- Minimal screen time, just lots of fresh air and natural learning
- Opportunities to grow your skills and progress your career
- Free onsite parking and pension scheme
- 5.6 weeks paid holiday (included in salary)
Location:
Grammarcombe Woods, just outside Exeter
Days and hours:
- Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Fridays. Thursdays will start from 5th January 2027 for 1 year maternity cover: every day is 8.30am - 3.45pm
- Summer holiday work available
Apply
Please send your CV and a short covering letter explaining why you’d love to be part of our woodland family to info@atouchofthewild.co.uk
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
This role requires a DBS disclosure.
Interview Date: Wednesday 11 November 2026
Job Details
- OrganisationChildcare
- Work LocationExeterTeignbridge
- Work Postcode
EX6
- Reference
- Occupational GroupChildcare
- Salary Details
£12.71 per hour, rising annually with inflation
- Job TermPermanent
- Appointment TypePart TimeTerm Time
- Hours
4 days per week (rising to 5 in January 2027). 8.30am - 3.45pm each day
- Closing Date
04/11/2026
- DBS Check Required
Yes