At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead engaging gardening sessions for adults with special educational needs and mental health conditions.
- Company: Join the vibrant Adult Learning Lewisham team making a real difference in the community.
- Benefits: Earn £34.72 per hour while fostering confidence and teamwork in learners.
- Other info: Flexible hours, creative teaching opportunities, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact through nature and help others thrive in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Passion for horticulture and a compassionate approach to teaching diverse learners.
The predicted salary is between 34 - 35 £ per hour.
Discover yourself in Lewisham where what you do makes a difference to our vibrant and culturally diverse communities! We have a rich history of welcoming people from all over the world and are proud to be recognised as the UK’s first Borough of Sanctuary, for our work in championing the rights of refugees and migrants.
Join our Supported Learning and Mindlift Team at Adult Learning Lewisham!
The Role:
- You will deliver practical and engaging gardening sessions with a focus on:
- Basic horticulture and plant care
- Outdoor learning and seasonal activities
- Wellbeing through nature and physical activity
- Building confidence, routine, and teamwork skills
Each course runs for 2 hours per week, once a week, over 11 weeks per term, across 3 terms per year. Classes take place on a set weekday, either 10:00–12:00 or 13:00–15:00. There may be some flexibility around the day and time to accommodate tutor availability. There may also be opportunities to teach more than one class per week.
Who You’ll Teach:
You will work with adult learners who have a wide range of learning support needs, disabilities, and/or mental health conditions. Learners with SEND may present with varying conditions, limitations, skills, and abilities. Learners with mental health conditions may have experienced trauma or grief, and may be living with depression, anxiety, or other challenges. Some may feel socially isolated or lack confidence. Their skill levels can range from very low to highly developed. Most learners are returning to education, while some may be engaging for the first time.
Who We Are Looking For:
- We are seeking tutors who have:
- A strong background and passion in horticulture
- Compassion and experience (or a willingness to develop skills) in supporting the learners described above
- A patient, inclusive, and flexible teaching approach, with a commitment to delivering high-quality, engaging sessions
- Creativity, energy, and enthusiasm, with a genuine desire to make a positive impact on learners in an enjoyable and meaningful way
Salary details: £34.72 per hour
The post is subject to an enhanced DBS. CVs will not be accepted. To apply please click on 'apply here'.
For any questions, contact: Ruhsar Osman, Curriculum Leader- ruhsar.osman@lewisham.gov.uk
Closing date: Sunday 14th June 2026 at 11:59pm
Diversity: Lewisham Council is a Disability Confident employer. We welcome and encourage job applications of all abilities. If you require any reasonable adjustments in the application or interview, please contact the lead contact on this advert. We will make reasonable adjustments to make sure our disabled applicants and those with health conditions are supported throughout our recruitment process.
The Council has a dedicated employment support service, Lewisham Works, which offers Lewisham residents guidance in relation to applying for jobs. If you want to join Lewisham Works, please email JobsAndSkills@lewisham.gov.uk and an advisor will be in touch with you.
Part-Time, Term-Time Gardening Tutors for Adults with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and/or Mental Health Conditions employer: Borough of Lewisham
Contact Detail:
Borough of Lewisham Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Part-Time, Term-Time Gardening Tutors for Adults with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and/or Mental Health Conditions
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Lewisham and its commitment to diversity and inclusion. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former tutors at Adult Learning Lewisham on social media. They can provide insider tips and maybe even give you a heads-up about what the interviewers are looking for.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for practical scenarios! Think about how you would engage adult learners with SEND or mental health conditions in gardening sessions. Be ready to share your ideas during the interview to demonstrate your creativity and enthusiasm.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, make sure your supporting statement highlights how you meet the person specification criteria – this is your chance to shine!
We think you need these skills to ace Part-Time, Term-Time Gardening Tutors for Adults with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and/or Mental Health Conditions
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Horticulture: Make sure to highlight your love for gardening and horticulture in your application. We want to see that you’re not just knowledgeable, but also genuinely excited about sharing that passion with our learners!
Tailor Your Supporting Statement: When writing your supporting statement, be specific about how your experience aligns with the needs of our adult learners. We’re looking for compassion and flexibility, so share examples that showcase your approach to teaching.
Be Yourself!: Let your personality shine through in your application. We value creativity and enthusiasm, so don’t be afraid to show us who you are and how you can make a positive impact on our learners’ lives.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need to complete your application successfully.
How to prepare for a job interview at Borough of Lewisham
✨Know Your Horticulture
Brush up on your horticultural knowledge! Be ready to discuss basic plant care and outdoor learning techniques. Showing your passion for gardening will resonate well with the interviewers, especially since they’re looking for someone who can engage adult learners in practical sessions.
✨Show Your Compassion
Prepare to share examples of how you've supported individuals with special educational needs or mental health conditions. Highlighting your patience and inclusive teaching approach will demonstrate that you understand the unique challenges these learners face.
✨Engage with Creativity
Think of creative ways to make gardening sessions fun and engaging. Bring ideas for seasonal activities or team-building exercises that could enhance the learning experience. This will show your enthusiasm and commitment to making a positive impact.
✨Be Ready for Flexibility
Since there may be some flexibility around class timings, be prepared to discuss your availability. Show that you’re open to adapting your schedule to meet the needs of the learners and the organisation, which reflects your commitment to the role.