Forest School Teacher - August 2025

Job description / Role

Job Description

With a 65-year legacy of excellence and a global reputation as one of the largest and most awarded private education providers, GEMS Education integrates cutting-edge advancements through its extensive networks and high-level partnerships. Join the GEMS School of Research and Innovation, where significant investments in AI, robotics, and state-of-the-art facilities drive exceptional student outcomes in academics and well-being. As a leader in educational innovation, we offer a forward-thinking environment focused on personalised learning, holistic development, and the opportunity to shape the future of education.

At GEMS School of Research and Innovation, we provide a seamless educational journey from Pre-Prep + Prep to Sixth Form, enhanced by cutting-edge technology and a forward-thinking curriculum. In the Pre-Prep + Prep stages, we prioritise personalized learning through gamification and advanced technologies, alongside a strong emphasis on science, computing, reading, writing, and the arts. Our facilities include an innovation lab, specialist IT equipment, and programs in sports such as gymnastics, martial arts, basketball, and cricket. Emerging technologies like robotics, AI, machine learning, and VR/AR are integrated to enhance learning, including advanced Arabic provision.

In Secondary and Sixth Form, students benefit from tailored pathways with a wide range of GCSEs, A-levels in subjects like sciences, business, and fine arts, supported by university-linked lectures and industry placements. Advanced tools such as Web3/blockchain, drones, autonomous vehicles, and esports labs prepare students for future careers. Sixth Form further bridges school, university, and industry through global partnerships and cutting-edge technology, ensuring students excel academically while acquiring real-world skills.

The Forest School Teacher will lead engaging, hands-on outdoor learning experiences that foster resilience, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. Through child-led activities such as campfires, tool use, and shelter building, the role supports holistic student development while ensuring a safe and well-maintained Forest School environment.

Salient Accountabilities:

• Plan and deliver engaging Forest School sessions that foster resilience, teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Teach practical outdoor skills, including campfires, tool use, knot work, and shelter building.
• Ensure Forest School activities promote child-led learning and contribute to students' holistic development.
• Prepare and maintain up-to-date risk assessments, ensuring all relevant staff are informed of safety measures.
• Support the school in maintaining and developing the Forest School area based on ecological needs.
• Maintain tools, materials, and equipment, advising on necessary purchases and completing order requests.
• Participate in performance appraisals and set professional targets in collaboration with the Line Manager.
• Attend year group planning meetings to support the integration of Forest School within the curriculum.

Skills

Person Specification:

• Embody and role model our core values of integrity, empathy, and fortitude in everything they do.
• Three years qualified relevant experience preferred.
• Be a Level 3 Forest School leader, or be actively working towards this qualification.
• Hold a BEd or Bachelor's degree with PGCE/PGDE or equivalent.
• A Master's degree or equivalent qualification is preferred.
• Have a willingness to collaborate and share their outstanding practice.
• Have a growth mindset, whereby they are reflective and solution-focused.
• Be creative and enthusiastic in their approach to teaching.
• Possess excellent interpersonal skills to work closely with colleagues, students, and parents.
• Have a proven track record of providing outstanding learning and teaching.
• Have aspiration to work in a world-class school with real prospects for enhancing their career.
• Be willing to make a positive contribution to our school community and culture through active engagement in our extra-curricular programme and community-based events.

All positions attract an excellent remuneration package including: competitive tax-free salary, individual fully furnished accommodation, free schooling, private medical insurance, annual airfares to country of residence, and end of service gratuity.

GEMS Teachers also have free access to our loyalty app which provides significant savings on day-to-day life in the UAE. We offer thousands of discounts and 2 for 1 offers on everything from flights, hotels, restaurants, and retail outlets, making your salary go further and enhancing the opportunity to save whilst working overseas.

About the Company

GEMS Education is a pioneering education company with an international network of award winning K-12 schools. Over the past 55 years GEMS has grown from one school to being a truly global company with one incredible mission – to make quality education available to every student. Over 20,000 education professionals unlock the potential of over 250,000 students across 14 countries each and every day, preparing children of all ages for real world success.