Forest School & Practical Learning Lead
Are you a qualified teacher with a passion for outdoor learning, practical skills and making a difference for students who thrive in practical environments? We are launching a new curriculum offer and we are looking for a passionate individual to develop and lead the offer.
We are looking to create a meaningful, alternative learning experience for targeted groups of students, many of whom will have SEND or additional needs, who will benefit from a curriculum that goes beyond that of the mainstream school.
Our vision is to create a curriculum offer combining outdoor education, horticulture and basic DIY and construction. Part of this role is to develop this vision into reality and will include a significant amount of autonomy for the successful candidate to shape the curriculum. Our aim is to complement students’ wider curriculum experience and help them build their self-confidence, independence and practical skills which will support their progress on to apprenticeships and further study.
The Role
As the Forest School & Practical Learning Lead, you will:
* Design and deliver a bespoke curriculum that delivers a broad range of different opportunities for students, including: Forest School, outdoor learning and trade-based skills.
* Plan a structured programme of sessions each week, aligned with student needs and EHCP outcomes, where relevant.
* Teach students how to work safely with tools, build and maintain structures, care for green spaces and engage with nature.
* Provide an inclusive, nurturing environment where students develop teamwork, resilience and self-esteem.
* Work collaboratively with teaching staff, SEND teams and pastoral leads to ensure the offer meets individual needs.
* Create and review risk assessments and safety protocols to support a safe and enriching experience.
* Play a strategic role in evaluating the impact of the provision, with the potential to grow it into a full-time offer over time.
What We are Looking For
* A qualified teacher with a strong belief in alternative and vocational education.
* Experience of working with students with SEND and/or those who benefit from non-traditional approaches to learning.
* Experience of effective curriculum design and planning.
* A solid understanding of Forest School principles, outdoor education, or vocational/practical skills.
* Confidence in leading practical sessions involving tools, construction, land care or environmental work.
* A calm, patient and positive presence with strong behaviour management skills.
* A collaborative mindset, with the ability to work flexibly across teams, with an ability to strategically develop the curriculum offer over time.
* Enterprising and confident to build strong relationships with the business community in order to enhance opportunities for students, either through funding streams or work-based learning opportunities.
1 year secondment in the first instance.
MPS1 – UPS3 + TLR 2b
Requirements
* A degree in Education, Outdoor Education, Environmental Science, or a related field is preferred.
* Experience in leading outdoor education programs.
* Knowledge of the Forrest School ethos and principles is advantageous.
* Strong leadership and communication skills.
* Ability to engage students in outdoor activities effectively.
* First Aid certification and understanding of health and safety regulations related to outdoor learning or willing to aquire.
Benefits
o Healthcare Cash Plan options for you & your family*
o Free on-site gym & personal & group training sessions
o Electric Car Scheme & onsite charging points
o Childcare and Nursery discount vouchers
o Tech scheme
o Charity Giving
o Free remote & onsite yoga sessions
o Cycle to Work scheme
o Free Parking
o Gym & retailer discounts
o Onsite car valeting
o Enhanced Maternity, Shared Parental & Adoption Leave.