SEN Teaching Assistant (Forest School)

SMART Education Recruitment; Stratford-upon-Avon; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 27,000; Full time

Job summary

A specialist education recruitment agency in Stratford-upon-Avon is looking for a Level 3 Forest School Teaching Assistant. This full-time permanent role involves supporting students with Special Educational Needs through outdoor education. Responsibilities include leading outdoor activities, ensuring safe learning environments, and promoting pupils' independence. Ideal candidates will have a Level 3 qualification and experience in forest schooling or outdoor education.

Qualifications

• Experience supporting pupils’ emotional and social development.
• Confident supporting pupils with communication, sensory and behavioural needs.
• Willingness to obtain an Enhanced Child & Adult Workforce DBS.

Responsibilities

• Support pupils during Forest School sessions across KS groups.
• Lead small-group activities such as nature crafts and sensory exploration.
• Work collaboratively with teachers and specialist staff.

Skills

Experience working within a Forest School setting

Creative approach

Ability to manage outdoor risks

Understanding of Forest School principles

Education

Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification

Job description

Teaching Assistant Forest School Level 3

Full‑time Permanent

Salary: £24,835 – £26,239 (Actual)

Location: Stratford‑upon‑Avon

Start date: January 2026 (or ASAP for the right candidate)

Smart Education is recruiting a Level 3 Forest School Teaching Assistant to join a specialist setting in Stratford‑upon‑Avon. This is a full‑time permanent role supporting pupils with a range of Special Educational Needs through outdoor, experiential and nature‑based learning.

Ideal for someone who is passionate about outdoor education, child‑led exploration and supporting pupils’ emotional and social development in natural environments.

Role Highlights

• Work as part of a dedicated Forest School provision
• Support outdoor lessons, bushcraft, exploration and sensory activities
• Encourage independence, resilience and problem‑solving through nature
• Join a highly supportive SEND team
• Full‑time, permanent role with training opportunities

Requirements

• Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification
• Experience working within a Forest School setting or outdoor education environment
• Understanding of Forest School principles and child‑led learning
• SEN experience strongly preferred
• Confident supporting pupils with communication, sensory and behavioural needs
• Ability to manage outdoor risks and maintain safety
• Creative, nurturing and resilient approach
• Enhanced Child & Adult Workforce DBS (or willingness to obtain one)

Key Responsibilities

• Support pupils during Forest School sessions across KS groups
• Prepare outdoor resources and ensure safe learning environments
• Lead small‑group activities such as den building, nature crafts and sensory exploration
• Support emotional regulation and confidence‑building outdoors
• Work collaboratively with teachers and specialist staff
• Promote independence, teamwork and respect for nature

About Smart Education

Smart Education is a specialist Education and Early Years agency recruiting for permanent and temporary roles including teachers, TAs, SEND staff, nursery nurses and tutors. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All successful applicants will undergo an Enhanced Child & Adult Workforce DBS check. It is an offence to apply if you are barred from engaging in regulated activity with children or vulnerable adults.