Outdoor Education lead

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.