We are seeking an enthusiastic and committed Outdoor Education Lead to design, deliver, and lead a high-quality outdoor education programme. This role plays a vital part in supporting students’ academic, social, emotional, and behavioural development—particularly those with SEMH needs.

You will inspire young people to build resilience, confidence, teamwork, and engagement through structured outdoor learning experiences, including accredited pathways such as the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE).

Key Responsibilities

Programme Development & Delivery

• Lead and deliver a progressive outdoor education programme across all key stages
• Plan enrichment activities, off-site visits, and outdoor learning opportunities
• Deliver a wide range of activities, including:
  • Canoeing, climbing, cycling
  • Bushcraft, horticulture, orienteering
  • Fencing, golf, archery 
• Ensure sessions are inclusive and support EHCP outcomes
• Embed therapeutic and trauma-informed approaches
• Promote participation across the school 

Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE)

• Act as the school’s DofE Lead 
• Coordinate Bronze and Silver awards 
• Manage expeditions, training, supervision, and assessment 
• Oversee registrations, tracking, and evidence submission 
• Ensure compliance with DofE and national guidance 

Student Development & Pastoral Support

• Use outdoor learning to support emotional regulation, resilience, and social skills 
• Build strong relationships with students, including those with challenging behaviour 
• Fulfil tutor responsibilities and contribute to pastoral systems 
• Promote school values and act as a positive role model 
• Support behaviour, attendance, and engagement strategies 

Educational Visits & Risk Management

• Coordinate all educational visits in line with policy 
• Use EVOLVE to manage documentation 
• Write and review risk assessments 
• Ensure staff are trained and supported 
• Maintain safeguarding, health and safety compliance 

Leadership & Coordination

• Lead and develop outdoor provision across the school 
• Line manage and support colleagues 
• Manage resources, equipment, and budgets 
• Contribute to school development and quality assurance 

Partnership Working

• Work with external providers, parents/carers, and organisations 
• Promote participation and celebrate student success 

Monitoring & Evaluation

• Track impact on student progress, wellbeing, behaviour, and engagement 
• Contribute to reports and school improvement 
• Monitor DofE participation and outcomes 

Rewards & Engagement

• Use outdoor learning as part of reward systems 
• Support disengaged students through enrichment opportunities 

Person Specification

Essential

• Experience working with young people with SEMH or additional needs 

• Strong behaviour management skills 

• Experience in outdoor education 

• Knowledge of safeguarding and health & safety 

• Ability to plan engaging and inclusive activities

Desirable

• Outdoor qualifications (e.g. Forest School, DofE Assessor) 

• First Aid qualification 

• Teaching qualification or HLTA status 

• Experience in trauma-informed practice 

Key Skills

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills 

• Ability to inspire and motivate learners 

• Excellent organisation and risk management 

• Creative and flexible approach 

Additional Expectations

• Flexibility to support trips 

• Commitment to safeguarding and student welfare 

• Uphold the school’s values and ethos 

Safeguarding

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All staff must share this commitment. This role is subject to an enhanced DBS check.