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- Tasks: Create engaging outdoor learning experiences for children, fostering confidence and resilience.
- Company: Join a passionate team at The Holden School, part of Acorn Education.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 4-day work week, competitive salary, and excellent wellbeing support.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while enjoying the great outdoors.
- Qualifications: Experience in outdoor education and understanding of special educational needs.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive community focused on positive outcomes for vulnerable young people.
The predicted salary is between 23000 - 27000 £ per year.
Work Smarter. Live Better. Join the 4-Day Working Week!
Job Title: Outdoor & Forest School Instructor
Location: The Holden School, Leigh WN7 4SB
Salary: £25,000.00 per annum (not pro rata)
Hours: 37.5 hours per week | Monday–Friday 08:30–16:00 (Tuesday until 16:30)
Contract: Permanent | Term Time Only
Start Date: March 2026
UK applicants only. This role does not offer sponsorship.
At Outcomes First Group, we believe in better work/life balance — and we’re putting wellbeing first. That’s why we’re proud to be part of a 4-Day Working Week (4DWW) trial, giving you 80% of your contractual hours for 100% of your pay*.
Many of our schools have already introduced the 4DWW, and others will soon join in. So, whether it’s already in place or just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to join #teamOFG!
About the Role
Do you love the outdoors and inspiring children to explore, create, and grow? As an Outdoor & Forest School Instructor, you’ll deliver exciting outdoor learning experiences that spark curiosity, confidence, and independence. You’ll work closely with the Outdoor Learning Lead to create a safe, structured, and engaging environment where children learn through play, exploration, and practical activities.
What You’ll Do
- Plan and deliver creative Forest School and outdoor learning sessions
- Encourage curiosity, problem-solving, and independence through exploration and play
- Promote positive behaviour, routines, and boundaries to keep children safe and engaged
- Support observation, assessment, and planning in partnership with the Outdoor Learning Lead
- Supervise children at all times, including on visits, trips, and during lunchtimes if needed
- Support staff and volunteers to uphold the outdoor learning ethos
- Maintain high standards of health and safety, including risk assessments and equipment checks
What We’re Looking For
- Experience working with children with SEN
- Ability to motivate and inspire children of different ages, abilities, and confidence levels
- Clear, confident, and fair approach with strong behaviour management skills
- Enthusiasm for outdoor learning and the ability to make every session fun, purposeful, and safe
About Us
The Holden School is an independent specialist day school for pupils aged 5–16, supporting children with SEMH, autism, and complex needs.
We provide a therapeutic, trauma-informed environment with personalised learning plans and expert on-site therapy support. Small classes and a dedicated staff team help pupils develop academic, social, and life skills while building confidence and resilience. With two sites in Leigh and access to outdoor and community-based learning, we prepare every child for a successful and fulfilling future.
Acorn Education offers rewarding careers and meaningful challenges while making a real difference in young people’s lives. As a leading UK provider of specialist education for children and young people with special educational needs, and part of Outcomes First Group, we deliver innovative, evidence-based approaches that support measurable progress and lasting impact.
We are really proud to say that in 2025 Outcomes First Group were officially certified as a ‘Great Place to Work’ for the sixth year running.
Why Join Us?
We place pupils and vulnerable young adults at the heart of everything we do, so every day brings the satisfaction of making a real difference. We are committed to the safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All applicants will be subject to social media checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS.
- Life Assurance
- Pension scheme with options to increase contributions
- “Your Wellbeing Matters” – mental health support and physical health checks
- Flexible Benefits Platform (Vista), including:
- Health, wellbeing and insurance benefits
- Hundreds of UK and international discounts
- Cycle to Work Scheme & Electric Car Purchase Scheme
- Critical illness cover
- Family Growth Support, including enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support
*Subject to successful probation. Not a contractual benefit.
We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.
Outcomes First Group is committed to carrying out a fair, thorough and efficient recruitment process in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education. Whilst we aim to keep applicants informed throughout, Outcomes First Group does not accept liability for any loss of earnings or other associated costs incurred by applicants as a result of delays or changes in the compliance process. All stages of the compliance process are subject to necessary safeguarding checks and compliance with statutory requirements, which may affect timescales.
#1
Outdoor & Forest School Instructor employer: Outcomes First Group
Contact Detail:
Outcomes First Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Outdoor & Forest School Instructor
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school and its ethos! Research The Holden School and Outcomes First Group to understand their values and approach to education. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on LinkedIn or other platforms. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for your application process. Personal connections can give you an edge!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for practical demonstrations! Since this role involves outdoor learning, be ready to showcase your skills in a hands-on way. Think about how you would engage students in outdoor activities and be prepared to discuss your ideas.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining #teamOFG. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Outdoor & Forest School Instructor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Outdoors: When writing your application, let your love for nature and outdoor learning shine through. Share any personal experiences or stories that highlight your connection to the outdoors and how it influences your teaching style.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Outdoor & Forest School Instructor role. Highlight your experience with SEMH needs and any relevant skills in bushcraft or outdoor activities that align with what we're looking for.
Be Authentic and Personal: We want to get to know the real you! Use a friendly tone and be genuine in your application. Share your motivations for wanting to work with children and how you plan to create a safe and inclusive environment for them.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details directly and can keep you updated on your application status. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join #teamOFG!
How to prepare for a job interview at Outcomes First Group
✨Know Your Outdoor Education Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of outdoor learning and Forest School principles. Be ready to discuss how you can create engaging, hands-on experiences that cater to children with SEMH needs. Think about specific activities you've led or participated in that demonstrate your passion for nature-based education.
✨Show Your Compassionate Side
During the interview, highlight your experience working with children who have special educational needs. Share examples of how you've supported emotional and social development in a challenging environment. This will show that you understand the importance of creating a safe and inclusive space for all students.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Collaboration is key in this role, so be prepared to talk about your experience working as part of a team. Discuss how you've worked with other educators or support staff to integrate outdoor learning into the curriculum. This will show that you're flexible and can adapt to different teaching styles.
✨Stay Calm Under Pressure
The interviewers will likely want to see how you handle dynamic situations. Prepare to share instances where you've remained calm and proactive in challenging scenarios. This could involve managing behaviour or adapting lessons on the fly, which is crucial in an outdoor setting.
