Job Description

Job Overview:
This is an incredible opportunity to play a key part in the development of a unique brand of nursery. Wildhearts Outdoor is an independent, nature-based provider committed to offer equal opportunities to all children. Our ethos is all about supporting children's well-being - we do this by:

Learning outdoors in large open spaces,

Following forest school principles

Building a strong inclusive community

Championing play and creativity

Prioritising relationship building

At Wildhearts Outdoor we are passionate about learning through play and the positive effect it has on children. To join our team, you will need to share this passion and be committed to working hard to ensure that children have the best experience possible every day they are with us and make the most of our wonderful wild areas.

Tasks and Responsibilities:

1. Ensure safeguarding and health and safety policies are adhered to and always applied.

2. Ensure the children in our care receive appropriate care, kindness, and supervision at all times.

3. Through sensitive and careful interaction (talking, listening, teaching, and observing) support the children in setting and achieving their own aims, extend and challenge their understanding and knowledge in all areas of learning.

4. Have high expectations.

5. Support the setting up of the learning environment - tailored to children's interests and passions.

6. Observe and monitor key children's progress and keep assessment profiles up to date and accurate.

7. Ensure equal opportunities are offered to all children.

8. Communicate with carers, give routine feedback about children's progress and development plus any other relevant info.

9. Attend staff meetings.

10.Contribute to the teams planning of resources and provision of activities.

11.Communicate with, and always contribute to the team in a positive and professional manner.

12.Carry out all duties and planned activities to a high standard.

As an Outdoor Early Years Practitioner at Wildhearts Outdoor, you'll work within an experienced and accomplished team using your existing skills, experience, and passion for child-led learning. You will follow children's interests and scaffold their learning in authentic and enabling environments through play-based approaches that puts relationships first.

Who are we looking for?

This job is not just about experience and qualifications but also about resilience. We are interested in working with people who are self-motivated, practical, organised, and able to support others in meaningful ways. Here are the key characteristics that we are looking for:

You will of course absolutely love working with children and families and be truly passionate about outdoor learning and play (in all weathers!) You are highly organised, reliable and a driven team player. You can step back and take a calm and considered approach, with a genuine interest in the work children do. You have strong relationship-building and communication skills and can talk to young children in a way that engages and values them. You understand the value of community and family. You can adapt quickly to changes, be flexible and use your initiative daily. Like us, you understand the importance of respect for the child, and that the child is the focus. You believe in our approach and ethos in early years education and take pride in being a part of this unique and wonderful nursery.
PROFESSIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Level 2 or level 3 childcare qualification. In depth understanding of the EYFS. Strong references from current / previous employers. Paediatric first aid training (preferably outdoors).
Along with the above, the following will be considered favourably:

Forest School Association qualification. 2+ years' experience
WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU;

Fully funded training and accreditations to expand your skill set.

Holiday pay, Employer contributed pension, sick pay scheme.

We care deeply about our team and work hard to identify individual skills and areas of interest. We provide in-house training and support you to attend external training courses. We value our employees and love to share their successes.

Closing Date:

30th January 2026

Setting Type:

Day Nursery - open 9.00am to 3.00pm (term time only)

Where:

Wildhearts Outdoor, Shelwick, Hereford. HR1 3AL

Personal Qualities:

Love and enthusiasm for working with young children and being part of a team, excellent communication skills, flexible, friendly, and approachable. Lover of nature and outdoors.

Hours:

3 days a week spread over 18.5 hours possibility more hours if have right qualifications.

Salary:

12.50 - 14.50 ph depending on qualifications and experience

How to apply:

send CV and covering letter to wildheartsoutdoor@gmail.com

Job Types: Part-time, Temporary, Fixed term contract, Temp to perm, Apprenticeship

Pay: 12.50-14.50 per hour

Benefits:

Company events Company pension Employee discount
Education:

A-Level or equivalent (preferred)
Experience:

Nursery: 2 years (preferred) outdoor / forest school: 1 year (preferred)
Licence/Certification:

Paediatric First Aid Certification (preferred)
Work Location: In person