Forest Kindergarten Assistant

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, 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.

Days and hours

• Monday, Wednesday & Thursday: 8.30am – 3.45pm
• Fridays: Hours to be added later (term time only)
• Summer holiday work available

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) – desirable
• 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

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.

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

A Touch of the Wild – fun, adventure and learning in the woods

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. 

This role requires a DBS disclosure. 

Interview Date: Wednesday 11th February 2026