Higher Level Teaching Assistant & Forest School Lead

We are looking for a caring, committed & adaptable member of staff to join our team in a hybrid position combining an HLTA role with the leadership of our Forest School provision. Following the relocation of our current Forest School Lead, an exciting opportunity has arisen for someone with a passion for outdoor learning to take on & further develop our Forest School provision in KS1. We are a two-form entry school, with an outstanding EYFS. The Infant and Junior schools are located on two adjoining sites in the heart of the Ottershaw community. The schools have a capacity of 460 pupils, plus an on-site , full time nursery with capacity for 26 children. We are fortunate to have extensive grounds, including areas already developed for outdoor learning, providing a strong foundation to build & further develop our Forest School provision. The Good Shepherd Trust is a multi-academy trust serving 24 schools within the Diocese of Guildford across Surrey and Hampshire. Our trust comprises both primary and secondary schools, schools affiliated to the Church of England and others who are not. Our purpose is to grow and maintain a strong network of schools within a highly supportive and sharing network: we know that schools are better when they work together sharing common values and goals. Opportunities for staff development are a key priority for us - as a member of support staff, as a teacher, as a head teacher or as a local committee member you will have access to wide and varied professional development. We are working hard to become a more diverse organisation - which is key to our commitment “to be better, together, to ensure an ambitious education for every child in every school every day”. We welcome applications from everyone committed to this ethos and would particularly welcome applications from black and minority ethnic candidates, who are currently under-represented in the Group as a whole. We always appoint on merit. We are always open to discussing flexible working options. Please note that we reserve the right to interview on application should a suitable candidate apply and we have the right to withdraw this advert prior to the closing date. You are therefore strongly encouraged to apply for the role as soon as possible. We can offer you: Term time only working hours (a minimum of 2 days per week, which equates to 12.66 hours per week. 8.25am to 3.15pm) A HLTA salary grade of D1 to D6: FTE salary £24,084 to £27,219 pa, depending on experience The opportunity to work within a very supportive, friendly environment in this well run and respected school. The successful applicant will have: An HLTA qualification A Forest School Level 3 Qualification Experience of working with young children of all abilities An understanding of the Primary Curriculum Visits to the school are welcomed and encouraged. Please contact the school office to arrange your visit. Closing date: Thursday 14th May, 2026 Interviews: Wednesday 20th M