At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead engaging outdoor learning sessions for pupils with special educational needs.
- Company: Specialist SEN school in Waterlooville focused on outdoor learning.
- Benefits: Free CPD training, ongoing support, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Full-time role with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Empower students in nature-rich environments and foster their growth and development.
- Qualifications: Level 2/3 qualification in childcare or relevant SEN experience required.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 30000 € per year.
A specialist SEN school in Waterlooville is seeking an enthusiastic, creative and resilient Forest School Leader to develop and lead its expanding outdoor learning provision. Working closely with class teachers, therapists and support staff, the Forest School Leader will plan and deliver engaging outdoor sessions that nurture pupils' social, emotional and educational development. You will lead forest school activities, promote safe and inclusive outdoor experiences, and contribute to the wider curriculum through child-centred, sensory-rich learning in a natural environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Planning and delivering forest school and outdoor learning sessions tailored to pupils with autism, sensory needs, communication differences, PMLD, SLD and complex learning profiles.
- Creating safe, inclusive and stimulating woodland environments that encourage exploration, independence and curiosity.
- Supporting pupils who may experience anxiety, emotional dysregulation, sensory overload or challenges with transitions and routines.
- Using nature-based, practical, creative and therapeutic activities to promote engagement across early years, primary and secondary age groups.
- Encouraging communication, emotional regulation, social understanding and life-skills development through outdoor experiences.
- Modelling calm, clear and supportive communication to build trusting relationships.
- Ensuring all outdoor activities follow robust safeguarding, risk assessment and safety procedures.
Contract Details
- Location: Waterlooville
- Position: Forest School Leader - SEN School
- Start Date: September 2026
- Contract Type: Full-time / temp-to-perm
- Working Hours: 31.75 hours per week (8:30-3:30 four days, 8:30-4:00 one day)
- Pay Rate: From £14.25 per hour
Requirements
- You must have the Right to Work in the UK.
- Hold an enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or be willing to apply).
- Provide professional references covering the last 24 months.
- Hold a Level 2/3 qualification in childcare, education, forest school, or health & social care or have relevant SEN experience supporting children or young people with complex needs.
- Be confident working outdoors in all seasons and committed to nature-based learning.
What We Offer
- Free accredited CPD, including safeguarding, behaviour support, de-escalation and outdoor learning training.
- Access to a specialist in-house Training & Development Team.
- Ongoing support from a dedicated SEN consultant.
If you are passionate about outdoor learning, forest school practice and supporting pupils with complex needs to thrive in nature-rich environments, we would love to hear from you.
Forest School Leader - SEN Outdoor Learning Provision employer: Prospero Teaching
Join a dedicated team at our specialist SEN school in Waterlooville, where we prioritise a nurturing and inclusive work culture that empowers our staff to make a meaningful impact on the lives of pupils with complex needs. We offer extensive professional development opportunities, including free accredited CPD and ongoing support from experienced consultants, all within a vibrant outdoor learning environment that fosters creativity and resilience. If you are passionate about nature-based education and want to grow in your career while making a difference, this is the perfect place for you.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Forest School Leader - SEN Outdoor Learning Provision
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school and its ethos! Research the SEN school in Waterlooville and understand their approach to outdoor learning. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in their mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on LinkedIn or other platforms. They can provide insider tips about the school culture and what they value in a Forest School Leader, giving you an edge in your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for outdoor learning! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've engaged children in nature-based activities. Highlight your creativity and resilience in overcoming challenges, especially with pupils who have complex needs.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us!
We think you need these skills to ace Forest School Leader - SEN Outdoor Learning Provision
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start your application, take a good look at the job description. Make sure you understand what we're looking for in a Forest School Leader and how your skills and experiences align with our needs.
Show Your Passion for Outdoor Learning:We want to see your enthusiasm for outdoor learning and working with children with complex needs. Share specific examples of how you've engaged with nature-based activities or supported SEN pupils in your previous roles.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight relevant experiences that match the key responsibilities outlined in the job description. This shows us you’re genuinely interested in the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to apply through our website for the best chance of being considered. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets to the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at Prospero Teaching
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the principles of Forest School and how they apply to SEN education. Brush up on your knowledge about autism, sensory needs, and communication differences. This will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you're genuinely passionate about supporting these pupils.
✨Showcase Your Creativity
Prepare to share some innovative ideas for outdoor learning sessions. Think about how you can use nature-based activities to engage pupils with complex needs. Bring examples or even a mini lesson plan to the interview to illustrate your approach and creativity.
✨Emphasise Safety and Inclusivity
Be ready to discuss how you would create safe and inclusive environments for outdoor learning. Talk about your experience with risk assessments and safeguarding procedures, and how you ensure all pupils feel comfortable and supported during activities.
✨Build Rapport
During the interview, focus on building a connection with the interviewers. Use calm and clear communication to reflect the supportive relationships you aim to foster with pupils. Share examples of how you've successfully built trust with children in previous roles, especially those with emotional or behavioural challenges.
