Forest School Leader Level 3 - Alternative Provision in Newcastle upon Tyne

Forest School Leader – Alternative Provision

Forest School Leader – Alternative Provision

Contract: Full Time, PermanentSalary: £27,000 – £32,000 per annum (salary negotiable based upon qualifications and/or QTS Status)Holiday Entitlement: 28 days, plus 3 gifted days at Christmas.Hours: 40 hours per week – 8am – 4pm.

About Endless Adventure North East

Established in March 2012, Endless Adventure North East is a leading outdoor alternative provision provider based in the North East. We have built a reputation for delivering high-quality, bespoke educational programmes that enable children and young people to thrive through meaningful outdoor experiences.

Working closely with schools, local authorities and families, we provide specialist alternative provision for learners aged 5+, including individual and small-group programmes for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs.

As demand for our services continues to grow, we are seeking an experienced Level 3 Forest School Leader to join our dedicated team.

About the Role

As our Forest School Leader, you will design, lead and deliver engaging Forest School programmes that promote confidence, resilience, independence and emotional wellbeing through child-centred outdoor learning.

You will combine your expertise with Forest School principles to create inspiring learning experiences that meet the social and emotional needs of children and young people with SEND and SEMH.

Working primarily within woodland environments, you will plan and deliver personalised programmes linked to EHCP outcomes, individual learning targets and wider curriculum objectives, ensuring every learner is supported to achieve meaningful progress.

Alongside Forest School delivery, you will also support the wider delivery of Endless Adventure’s outdoor learning programmes, which may include activities such as paddle boarding, canoeing, climbing, abseiling, gorge walking, mountain biking and other adventurous outdoor experiences. The successful candidate will ideally have experience, qualifications or a strong interest in delivering a range of outdoor activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Build positive, professional relationships with children and young people with SEMH and SEND needs.
• Support the delivery of engaging outdoor learning and adventure activities.
• Help create a safe, nurturing and inclusive environment where young people can thrive.
• Promote positive behaviour, emotional wellbeing and personal development.
• Contribute to individual support plans and programme reviews.
• Support young people to achieve outcomes identified within EHCPs and other support plans.
• Work collaboratively with families, schools, local authorities and external professionals.
• Support activity instructors in delivering adventurous outdoor activities safely and effectively.
• Assist in the planning, delivery and evaluation of alternative provision programmes
• Monitor and manage risks in accordance with company policies and procedures.
• Maintain accurate records, reports and safeguarding documentation.

Operational support:

• Assist with programme administration, scheduling and general operational tasks.
• Support equipment checks, maintenance and record keeping.
• Contribute to the smooth running of facilities, vehicles and resources.
• Undertake health and safety checks and report any concerns promptly.
• Always Represent Endless Adventure professionally.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of SEND, SEMH and safeguarding practices.
• Attend training, professional development opportunities and industry events.
• Contribute positively to the ongoing development and growth of the organisation.

About You

You will be a qualified Level 3 Forest School Leader who believes in the power of outdoor learning to transform engagement, confidence and wellbeing.

The ideal candidate will have experience of both Forest School and outdoor adventure activities and will enjoy working across a varied programme of learning experiences. You may already hold qualifications in areas such as paddle sport, climbing, mountain biking or other outdoor disciplines, or have a desire to continue developing your outdoor skill set.

You will be confident working in dynamic outdoor environments and supporting young people through both nurturing Forest School experiences and adventurous learning opportunities.

• Minimum two years’ experience working with children and young people with SEND and/or SEMH.
• Full UK driving licence.
• Relevant qualification in education, youth work, learner support, SEND or a related field (or currently working towards one).
• Experience supporting young people with SEMH and/or SEND needs.
• Understanding of safeguarding and child protection responsibilities.
• Knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice and EHCP processes.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to work flexibly and adapt to changing situations.
• Good IT skills and confidence using digital systems.
• Emotional resilience and a solution-focused approach.

Desirable Qualifications & Experience

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
• Outdoor activity qualifications (e.g. RCI, Mountain Leader, MTB Leader, IRF qualifications).
• Experience delivering outdoor learning programmes beyond Forest School.
• Experience supporting young people in adventurous outdoor environments.
• Team Teach or equivalent positive behaviour support training.
• Safeguarding training.

Safeguarding statement

Endless Adventure is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All successful applicants will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check and safer recruitment processes.
Online searches may be conducted for shortlisted candidates as part of our recruitment process in accordance with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance.

Interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis, and the vacancy may close early should a suitable candidate be appointed.