Lead Teacher

Let's Grow Outside NH- The Amherst Preschool, Joppa Farm and Forest School, Ponemah Forest School is hiring a Lead Teacher in Amherst, NH Summary We are seeking a passionate, collaborative, and experienced Lead Teacher to join our team atThe Amherst Preschool, a Reggio Emilia–inspired early childhood program rooted in nature, inquiry, and child-led learning. The Lead Teacher will create a warm, engaging classroom environment where children are viewed as capable, competent, and full of potential. This position involves guiding curriculum development, fostering meaningful relationships with children and families, and working closely with a supportive teaching team to create thoughtful, responsive learning experiences both indoors and outdoors. The ideal candidate is reflective, organized, nurturing, and excited about emergent curriculum and spending significant time outside with children in all seasons. Duties Develop and implement emergent, play-based curriculum inspired by children’s interests and inquiries Create a safe, engaging, and inclusive classroom environment Lead classroom routines and support children’s social-emotional development Observe, document, and reflect on children’s learning through photos, notes, and displays Collaborate with co-teachers and administration to plan meaningful learning experiences Build strong relationships and communicate regularly with families Support outdoor learning experiences in all seasons and weather conditions Maintain classroom organization, materials, and cleanlinessEnsure compliance with all licensing and safety requirements Participate in staff meetings, professional development, and school events Requirements Must be qualified as a Lead Teacher according to New Hampshire state licensing requirements Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field Previous experience working in early childhood education Strong communication and collaboration skills Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain) Must pass required background checks and meet all state licensing requirements Knowledge of or interest in the Reggio Emilia philosophy and nature-based education Nice To Haves Experience leading a classroom Experience in outdoor education or recreation, professionally or personally Training in the Reggio approach or previous experience at a Reggio-inspired school Retirement Plan Child Care Discount Professional Development A community of like-minded educators and families About Us Let’s Grow Outside NHis a network of three Reggio-inspired forest schools in Southern New Hampshire dedicated to honoring childhood through nature, play, inquiry, and meaningful relationships. The Amherst Preschoolopened in 2009 and provides children with enriching, child-led experiences on a beautiful 23-acre campus. The school offers a full-time, year-round program designed for working families who value outdoor exploration, creativity, and unstructured play as essential parts of childhood. Joppa Farm and Forest Schoolopened in 2020 on the campus of Joppa Hill Educational Farm in Bedford. JFFS offers part-time, multi-age programming for children ages 3–5. Children spend their days exploring 190 acres of forests, fields, and fairy houses while building meaningful connections to the natural world and the farm community around them. Ponemah Forest Schoolwill open in Fall 2026 at Hampshire Hills in Milford. Ponemah will offer part-time preschool and kindergarten programming that prioritizes outdoor play, exploration, and connection to nature. Children will also engage in enriching indoor experiences within thoughtfully curated environments designed to inspire inquiry, discovery, creativity, and joy. Learn more on our website: letsgrowoutsidenh.com #J-18808-Ljbffr Child Care Resources Inc