Working for Epping Forest District Council

Embark on a meaningful career at Epping Forest District Council.

Join us and make a real difference to the vibrant community we serve.

We're not just about providing essential services; we're about shaping a better future together. From housing and environmental management to planning, leisure, and customer service, your work here will directly impact the lives of our residents.

At Epping Forest, we believe in fostering an environment where you can thrive and bring your best. We value innovation and encourage you to contribute your ideas to shaping a better district.

We also recognise the importance of community involvement and actively encourage our employees to engage with our residents and make a positive impact.

From day one, we'll support your wellbeing for you and your family. Our flexible working arrangements allow you to balance your professional life with personal commitments. Through our extensive Learning Tree program, you'll have access to training opportunities that will enhance your skills and knowledge for continuous learning.

Enjoy the security of the Local Government Pension Scheme, collaborate in inspiring workspaces, take advantage of our Employee Assistance Programs, and access discounted gym memberships – plus much more.

Join Epping Forest District Council and embark on a fulfilling career that makes a positive difference in the lives of others. Let's shape a brighter future together.

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Living here

Beyond the hustle and bustle of London, nestled in the northeastern reaches of Essex, the Epping Forest District embodies a tapestry of natural beauty and vibrant local communities. Bordered by Hertfordshire to the north and embraced by the Metropolitan Green Belt, which includes the sprawling Epping Forest to the west, this district is picturesque and unique.

The district boasts a broad selection of beautiful and historically rich towns and villages like Waltham Abbey, Chigwell, Loughton, North Weald Bassett, Theydon Bois, and Chipping Ongar and each settlement offers a unique perspective on life in the district.

What truly sets Epping Forest District apart is its profound connection to the magnificent Epping Forest, a historic woodland steeped in regal legacy. This vast expanse of greenery provides a sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts, visitors, and history buffs, as well as attracting an exciting array of fauna and wildlife.

The Epping Forest District Council, in partnership with 'The Discover App,' highlights a vibrant tapestry of attractions and events catering to diverse tastes and passions.

Places to visit

Steeped in history, full of character and green spaces, every season offers all the right ingredients for interesting things to do in the Epping Forest District.

Immersed in history, the ancient market town of Waltham Abbey is the resting place of King Harold and home to the Epping Forest District Museum where you can learn about the district's rich heritage and the Royal Gunpowder Mills where you can discover the secret history of gunpowder production and rocket development. Just a few minutes away, the world-class Lee Valley White Water Centre offers adrenaline-pumping white water adventure. Alternatively, for a gentler taste of the outdoors, head for Epping Forest, with ancient trees, sunlit glades, and a host of events throughout the year. Visit Queen Elizabeth's Hunting Lodge or explore the remains of two large Iron Age forts.

Alternatively, enjoy the English countryside at its best along the Essex Way which begins right outside Epping Station at the end of the Central Line. Lee Valley Regional Park, running along the western edge of the Epping Forest district, offers much to the leisure visitor and Lee Valley Park Farms plus Ashlyns Farm at North Weald are popular family days out.

Just outside Ongar, Greensted’s 11th Century Church is famed as the oldest wooden church in the world whilst at Copped Hall, Shakespeare’s Midsummer Night’s Dream was first performed. Combine your visit with lunch in the leafy market towns of Epping or Ongar, two destinations linked by the Epping Ongar Heritage Railway, who can take you even further on one of their classic double-decker buses.

Bargain hunters head for North Weald Airfield, host to a weekly outdoor market held Saturdays and Bank Holidays on a former Battle of Britain site, still active today with historic aircraft in the skies and events throughout the year. The Airfield Museum is another must-see for enthusiasts.

For the ultimate retail therapy, especially if bling’s your thing, head for Loughton and Buckhurst Hill where you’ll find shops full of the fashion and designer goods that inspired TOWIE. You’ll also find plenty of café’s and bars to relax and plan your evening at top night spots or fine dining in one of the district’s many acclaimed restaurants.

Schools

The district boasts sixteen schools, including eleven lively primary schools and three bustling secondary schools, all rated ‘good’ by Ofsted, offering a nurturing environment where students can explore their passions, develop their talents, and make a positive impact on their community.

At Epping St John's School, students take the lead in charity fundraising through their dedicated Student Executive Team, showcasing their leadership skills and commitment to giving back. Their efforts have not gone unnoticed – in 2020, 200 students were awarded the Rotary Prize for their outstanding service to schools.

Partnering with Active Essex, the Epping Forest District Council has brought an innovative food education project to the Ninefields Youth Group, transforming the way young people learn about healthy eating. This initiative aims to spark their interest in cooking and nutrition, making healthy meals an exciting and enjoyable experience.

Schools in Epping Forest are not just about academic excellence; they are about fostering a sense of community responsibility and empowering young people to make a difference in the world. Through various initiatives and extracurricular activities, students are encouraged to develop their leadership skills, engage in social action, and contribute to their community's well-being.

With its commitment to providing a holistic education that encompasses academic achievement, personal development, and community engagement, young minds not only learn but also grow into responsible, compassionate, and engaged members of society.

Transport

The district’s Central Line tube stations at Epping, Loughton, Debden, Theydon Bois and Buckhurst Hill and Chigwell mean the heart of London is only a short tube ride away. Oyster and contactless payment options make travel effortless and convenient. The Central Line means Stratford, Liverpool Street and London’s West End are within easy reach.

Beyond the tube, mainline stations at Roydon, Harlow, and Waltham Cross provide Greater Anglia services to London Liverpool Street, Stratford, Cambridge, and Stansted Airport.

A network of mainline stations connects Epping to the wider world. Mainline stations in Roydon, Harlow, and Waltham Cross, all provide Greater Anglia services to London Liverpool Street, Stratford, Cambridge, and Stansted Airport, making it a breeze to explore the surrounding region and beyond. Epping's extensive bus routes cater to your commuting needs, ensuring seamless connections to various parts of the town and beyond. The frequent 420 bus service by Central Connect links Harlow and Ongar via the town's B1393 High Street, providing a convenient north-south route that intersects with the M11 motorway, connecting you to Cambridge, Stansted, London, with easy access to Harlow and Chelmsford.

It isn’t all about the commute. The tranquility of Epping Forest, a vast expanse of woodland offering an escape from the hustle and bustle of London. Marked walking routes wind through the forest's verdant paths, and for those seeking a more exhilarating experience, cycling enthusiasts will find endless paths to navigate, immersing themselves in the forest's natural beauty.

Whether you're commuting to work, seeking a leisurely stroll in the forest, or embarking on a cycling adventure, Epping's transport network and natural attractions provide a wealth of possibilities.