At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead engaging outdoor learning experiences for pupils with complex needs.
- Company: Join a supportive organisation dedicated to inclusive education and wellbeing.
- Benefits: Enjoy 24/7 emotional support, free online GP access, and flexible pay options.
- Other info: Collaborative team environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives through therapeutic outdoor learning.
- Qualifications: Passion for outdoor education and ability to support diverse learning needs.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
About the Role
We are seeking a skilled and passionate Outdoor Learning and Forest School Instructor to lead and develop a high‑quality, therapeutic outdoor learning provision for pupils with complex needs.
Role Summary
You will design and deliver inclusive outdoor learning across all phases, including KS3 provision, using approaches such as forest school, horticulture, and environmental learning.
The role focuses on promoting independence, wellbeing, and functional life skills through a therapeutic, person‑centred approach aligned with EHCP outcomes and Conductive Education principles.
Key Responsibilities
- Outdoor Learning Delivery: Plan and deliver engaging, safe, and inclusive outdoor learning experiences tailored to pupils with complex needs.
- Curriculum & Therapeutic Practice: Embed outdoor learning within the wider curriculum, supporting personal development, resilience, communication, and independence.
- Qualification
Pathway: Develop a progressive accredited pathway (e. g.
Foundation Learning, with BTEC/City & Guilds planned from 2027), ensuring accessibility and meaningful outcomes.
- Duke of Edinburgh Award: Lead and coordinate an inclusive Dof E programme, ensuring compliance, accessibility, and successful participation.
- Preparation for
Adulthood: Provide vocational and land‑based learning opportunities, developing transferable skills and real‑world experiences through partnerships and community engagement.
- Environment Development: Maintain and enhance outdoor learning spaces, ensuring they are safe, accessible, and promote high‑quality learning.
- Collaboration & Assessment: Work as part of a transdisciplinary team, monitor pupil progress, and contribute to assessment and reporting.
- Safeguarding & Safety: Ensure all provision meets safeguarding, health and safety, and risk management requirements, while promoting positive risk‑taking.
About You
- Experience or strong interest in outdoor learning, forest school, or land‑based education.
- Commitment to inclusive, therapeutic practice.
- Ability to support pupils with additional or complex needs (experience desirable).
- Strong organisational and teamwork skills.
- Commitment to safeguarding and pupil wellbeing.
Benefits
- Emotional Support: 24/7 Employee Assistance, mental health resources, meditation apps, and bereavement support.
- Medical Support: Free Online GP access, Health Cash Plan, Cancer Cover, and Menopause support.
- Financial Support: Flexible pay with Wagestream, utility bill savings, Money Helper, and Life Assurance.
- Physical Support: Online workouts, Cycle to Work scheme, gym discounts, and National Trust activities.
- Legal & Recruitment
Salutem Care and Education is dedicated to protecting and promoting the well‑being of children, young adults, and vulnerable individuals.
As part of our safer recruitment process, the successful candidate will be required to complete thorough pre‑employment checks, including an enhanced DBS and, where applicable, overseas criminal record checks.
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Outdoor Learning and Forest School Instructor employer: Salutem Care & Education
Salutem Care & Education is an exceptional employer located in the vibrant city of Plymouth, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With a strong commitment to person-centred care, employees benefit from ongoing training opportunities and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals with mental health needs. Join a dedicated team where your contributions are valued, and you can thrive in a rewarding environment.
Contact Details:
Salutem Care & Education Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Outdoor Learning and Forest School Instructor
✨Get Hands-On at Local Events
Hit up local horticulture fairs, plant shows, and farmer’s markets. These gatherings are a goldmine for networking and usually attract employers looking for passionate candidates. Chat with the vendors and fellow enthusiasts; you never know who might know about a full-time opening at a place like Salutem Care & Education.
✨Join Gardening Clubs and Online Communities
Become part of local gardening clubs or online forums where like-minded folks share tips and job leads. These communities can often clue you in on upcoming vacancies. Remember, people in these groups often work in the industry and can help us get our foot in the door at places like Salutem Care & Education.
✨Show Off Your Green Thumb
Consider creating a public portfolio showcasing your gardening projects, designs, or any unique plants you've cultivated. A well-documented journey through your horticulture experiences can make you stand out when chasing full-time roles. It’s basically your way of shouting, 'Look at what I can do!' to potential employers.
✨Apply Early and Often!
The horticulture field can be competitive, especially for full-time roles. Keep an eye on seasonal hiring trends and don’t hesitate to apply as soon as positions open up. Check out our website regularly for openings at Salutem Care & Education; staying ahead of the game can give us the edge we need.
We think you need these skills to ace Outdoor Learning and Forest School Instructor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Green Thumb:In horticulture, it's all about showcasing your hands-on experience. Make sure your CV highlights any relevant gardening, landscaping, or plant care roles you've held. Also, don’t forget to mention any specific skills like plant identification or pest management that make you a great fit for the position at Salutem Care & Education.
Include Certifications and Training:If you've got any horticulture-related certifications, such as in organic gardening or landscape design, be sure to include them. This will set you apart from other applicants and show that you’re committed to expanding your knowledge in the field, which is crucial for a full-time role like Outdoor Learning and Forest School Instructor.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect not just your passion for plants but also how your experience aligns with what Salutem Care & Education is looking for. Share specific examples of projects you've worked on or challenges you've overcome in previous horticultural roles to demonstrate your suitability for the full-time position.
Be Ready to Talk Numbers:When applying for a full-time role in horticulture, it's helpful to quantify your achievements. Did you increase crop yields or reduce waste in a previous job? Highlight these metrics in your CV to give hiring managers at Salutem Care & Education a clear picture of your capabilities!
How to prepare for a job interview at Salutem Care & Education
✨Get to Know Your Plants
Brush up on your plant knowledge! Be prepared to discuss specific species, their growth requirements, and potential pests. Remember, the role involves practical horticultural skills – so don’t be shy about sharing your hands-on experience with various plants and gardening techniques.
✨Show Off Your Portfolio
If you've worked on garden designs, landscaping projects, or community gardens, bring along a portfolio showcasing your work. Visuals speak a thousand words, and this will help us see your creativity and practical skills in action. Plus, don’t forget to have a few stories about challenges you faced and how you overcame them!
✨Be Ready for a Plant Quiz
Prepare for some technical questions related to horticulture! We may ask you about soil types, plant propagation methods, or pest management strategies. This helps us assess your depth of knowledge and problem-solving skills – so don’t skip the revision!
✨Passion for Sustainability
Horticulture often revolves around sustainability practices, so be ready to discuss any experience you have with eco-friendly gardening methods or sustainable designs. This role at Salutem Care & Education might have a focus on environmental impact, so showing your commitment could set you apart from other candidates.
