At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting outdoor activities like bushcraft, archery, and canoeing for all ages.
- Company: Join the passionate team at Little Deer Wood, a centre of excellence for Outdoor Learning.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous leave, ongoing training, and discounts with local retailers.
- Other info: Flexible hours with evening and weekend work; great career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by inspiring young people and promoting inclusivity in outdoor adventures.
- Qualifications: Experience in leading outdoor activities and a passion for working with diverse groups.
The predicted salary is between 13201 - 13412 £ per year.
Organisation: Kirklees
Directorate: Children & Families
Service Area: Learning & Early Support
Hours: 18.5
Number of Jobs: 1
Location(s): Across Kirklees
Position type: Permanent
Grade: 6
Salary: £13,201 - £13,412
The Team: Little Deer Wood is situated in beautiful woodland next to the Calder and Hebble Navigation at the heart of West Yorkshire. The centre provides a wide range of outdoor activities, all year round, to schools, colleges, youth clubs and charities. Little Deer Wood is a centre of excellence for Outdoor Learning giving the opportunity for residential and day visit experiences outside the classroom. Alongside this we deliver outdoor learning courses and adult team building sessions as well as holding the licence to deliver the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. Our team are passionate about the outdoors and keen to share skills and enthusiasm with groups of all ages and abilities.
We are looking for someone qualified to lead on outdoor activities such as bushcraft, archery, walking, canoeing and/or climbing.
The Role: At Little Deer Wood we follow inclusive practices, and as a Recreational Leader you will play a key role in developing and promoting activities for people of all ages, cultures and abilities; inspiring those with special educational needs and disabilities to become actively involved in a range of activities. You will have a responsibility for an area within the Little Deer Wood centre, ensuring that equipment is well maintained and supporting in the running of activities alongside our Outdoor Activity Assistants. As part of the role, you will also provide support and guidance to our Outdoor Activity Assistants. Working with the Team Leader & Development Officers you will support in the planning and delivery of high-quality outdoor educational activities with appropriate NGB Awards and relevant experience. You will also work to develop and grow the opportunities that Little Deer Wood offer. You will deliver the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, including Residential and Expedition opportunities. You will be responsible for leading on exciting project work, such as:
- WACKY (Wild Activities Challenging Kirklees Young People), which is a holiday programme for young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities in Kirklees.
- Open Award Centres for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. These centres run 2-hour evening sessions that provide an opportunity for 14-24-year-olds to work towards a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
- Participation Group – working with young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities on a variety of activities and gain their views on a variety of relevant matters.
As part of the role you will support groups on their residential at meal-times, including breakfast, lunch and evening meals. Evening and weekend working will be required for this role. Depending on what activities are running you may also need to stay overnight.
What can we offer?
- Generous annual leave entitlement
- Friendly and supportive team environment
- Ongoing training and career development
- Excellent pension scheme
- A range of family friendly policies
- Discounts with local and national retailers
- We offer a wide range of well-being initiatives including a cycle to work scheme and discounted KAL membership
This job is subject to a DBS check at the appropriate level. A conviction may not exclude candidates from appointment but will be considered as part of the recruitment process. We know there’s a wealth of talent among people who have a disability and we encourage applications from people with all differing abilities. So, if you need any support completing an application form, or any other format for the application or Job Description please contact the Recruitment Team for help by email or phone.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable adults and children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
Closing date: 19 July 2026, 11:55 PM
Recreation Leader - Outdoor Learning employer: Kirklees Council
Kirklees Council is an excellent employer that prioritises the wellbeing of its staff and the community. With a supportive work culture, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of students, this role as a Pastoral Wellbeing & Policy Coordinator offers a rewarding experience in a collaborative environment. Located in a vibrant area, employees benefit from a strong sense of community and the potential for a permanent position after the initial contract.
