At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead outdoor education and develop engaging outdoor spaces for students.
- Company: Dynamic academy focused on innovative outdoor learning experiences.
- Benefits: Extra holiday, wellness programmes, professional development, and gym membership.
- Other info: Flexible working options and strong promotion prospects within a supportive network.
- Why this job: Shape students' connection with nature and foster independence in a vibrant environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in outdoor learning and relevant educational qualifications.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Are you a passionate educator driven by the belief that the great outdoors is the ultimate classroom? We are seeking an Outdoor Learning Lead to pioneer and implement high-quality outdoor education across our academy. This is a unique opportunity to lead the strategic development of our outdoor spaces, fostering a culture of independence, responsibility, and well-being for every pupil. This role is about more than supervision; it is about being the architect of a student's engagement with the natural world. You will be at the forefront of our OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) programme and Forest School provision, ensuring that every child, regardless of their starting point, can access meaningful, safe, and life-enhancing outdoor experiences.
Benefits
- An extra week of holiday for all staff, provided as a two-week half-term in October.
- Access to a staff mindfulness programme, a free mindfulness app, the staff counselling service, and guest speakers on wellbeing.
- Outstanding professional development opportunities and excellent promotion prospects within a wider network.
- Gym membership, staff fitness classes, and discounts at local shops and restaurants.
- An on-site nursery and a focus on flexible and part-time working whenever possible.
Responsibilities
- Programme Oversight: Take overall responsibility for the OPAL programme, including its planning, implementation, and ongoing improvement.
- Space Innovation: Oversee the development and maintenance of outdoor spaces to maximise learning, play, and wellbeing opportunities.
- Forest School Leadership: Plan, lead, and evaluate high-quality Forest School sessions, ensuring all experiences are safe and engaging.
- Student Leadership: Develop and lead a student leadership programme focused on outdoor provision, empowering pupils to take active roles.
- Safety & Excellence: Ensure all outdoor activities meet strict health and safety requirements, including risk assessments and safeguarding expectations.
Requirements
- Relevant qualification in education, outdoor learning, or childcare.
- A current First Aid and Forest School qualification are highly desirable.
- Proven experience in leading or delivering outdoor learning provisions such as Forest School or OPAL.
- Strong knowledge of health and safety requirements in outdoor environments and expertise in risk assessment procedures.
- Experience managing groups of pupils safely in outdoor settings and promoting positive engagement.
If you don't meet every criterion, we would still love to hear from you. Could this be your next challenge? Please apply via this page with a copy of your CV. We are an equal opportunities employer.
Outdoor Learning Lead in North East employer: Dovetail and Slate
Join a forward-thinking academy that champions outdoor education and prioritises the well-being of both staff and students. With a strong commitment to professional development, flexible working options, and a vibrant work culture, we offer an enriching environment where educators can thrive and make a lasting impact on young lives. Our unique location provides access to beautiful outdoor spaces, enhancing the learning experience and fostering a deep connection with nature.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Outdoor Learning Lead in North East
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the academy's ethos and values before your interview. We want to see how you can fit into our culture of outdoor learning, so do a bit of homework on our OPAL programme and Forest School initiatives.
✨Tip Number 2
Show us your passion for outdoor education! Bring examples of how you've engaged students in nature-based learning or any innovative ideas you have for enhancing our outdoor spaces. We love creativity!
✨Tip Number 3
Network with other educators in the field. Join online forums or local meet-ups focused on outdoor learning. We believe collaboration is key, and it could lead to some great insights or even recommendations.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who are ready to make a difference.
We think you need these skills to ace Outdoor Learning Lead in North East
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Outdoors:When writing your application, let your love for outdoor education shine through! Share personal experiences or anecdotes that highlight your connection with nature and how it has shaped your teaching philosophy.
Tailor Your CV to the Role:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the Outdoor Learning Lead position. Highlight any relevant qualifications, such as your First Aid or Forest School certifications, and showcase your experience in leading outdoor learning initiatives.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We want to see your qualifications and enthusiasm without wading through unnecessary fluff!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application via our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Dovetail and Slate
✨Know Your Outdoor Learning Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of outdoor education, especially the OPAL programme and Forest School principles. Be ready to discuss how you've implemented these in the past and how you can bring innovative ideas to the role.
✨Show Your Passion for Nature
Let your enthusiasm for outdoor learning shine through! Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your connection with nature and how it has influenced your teaching style. This will help demonstrate your genuine commitment to the role.
✨Prepare for Safety Questions
Since safety is a big deal in outdoor settings, be prepared to answer questions about health and safety protocols. Familiarise yourself with risk assessment procedures and be ready to discuss how you would ensure a safe environment for students.
✨Engage with Student Leadership Ideas
Think about how you can empower students in outdoor learning. Prepare some ideas for a student leadership programme that encourages pupils to take active roles in their outdoor experiences. This shows you're not just about supervision but fostering independence and responsibility.
