At a Glance
- Tasks: Inspire kids through hands-on food, farming, and countryside learning experiences.
- Company: Join a passionate team dedicated to engaging primary-aged children.
- Benefits: Flexible self-employed role with competitive pay and travel expenses.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while exploring food and farming.
- Qualifications: Experience with children, strong communication skills, and a love for the outdoors.
- Other info: Work independently with support from a national team and enjoy seasonal flexibility.
The predicted salary is between 14000 - 15000 £ per year.
Location: Home-based, delivering sessions in schools and farms across Essex and surrounding areas
Contract: Self-employed, renewable subject to annual review
Start: Delivery from February 2026
This vacancy is recruited on a rolling basis and may close early if a suitable candidate is appointed, so early application is encouraged. Previous applicants need not apply.
We’re looking for a passionate and confident Food and Farm Discovery Coordinator to inspire primary-aged children through hands-on food, farming and countryside learning. You’ll deliver engaging cooking, gardening and farm visit experiences, working closely with schools, farmers and food producers - particularly in areas of disadvantage.
What you’ll do:
- Deliver Farm Discovery Days and the Food Discovery programme in schools
- Plan and lead farm visits, cooking and gardening sessions
- Build and maintain strong relationships with schools and farm hosts
- Manage session planning, equipment, health & safety and safeguarding
- Work independently as part of a supportive national team
Time commitment & pay:
- Around 80–90 paid days per year (seasonal variation)
- £171.48/day for Food Discovery delivery
- £163.77/day for Farm Discovery delivery
- Plus expenses and mileage (45p per mile)
- Estimated annual earnings: £14,000–£15,000, with potential to grow
You’ll need:
- Experience working with primary-age children and schools
- Confidence delivering hands-on cooking, gardening and outdoor learning
- Enthusiasm for food, farming and the countryside
- Strong communication, organisation and relationship-building skills
- Full UK driving licence, access to a car, and suitable IT setup
Food and Farm Discovery Coordinator (Self-Employed) in Essex employer: The Country Trust
Contact Detail:
The Country Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Food and Farm Discovery Coordinator (Self-Employed) in Essex
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the schools and farms in your area! Research their programmes and see how you can tailor your sessions to fit their needs. This shows you're proactive and genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Attend local events or workshops related to food, farming, and education. Meeting people in person can lead to valuable connections and opportunities that might not be advertised online.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your delivery skills! Whether it’s cooking, gardening, or teaching, rehearse your sessions with friends or family. The more comfortable you are, the more confident you'll be when you step into a classroom or farm.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Food and Farm Discovery Coordinator (Self-Employed) in Essex
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for food, farming, and working with children shine through in your application. We want to see how you can inspire primary-aged kids with hands-on experiences!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight relevant experience, especially in cooking, gardening, and outdoor learning. We love seeing how your background fits the role!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make it easy for us to see why you’re the perfect fit for the Food and Farm Discovery Coordinator position.
Apply Early!: Since we’re recruiting on a rolling basis, don’t wait too long to submit your application. The sooner you apply through our website, the better your chances of joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Country Trust
✨Know Your Audience
Before the interview, research the schools and farms you’ll be working with. Understand their values and how your role as a Food and Farm Discovery Coordinator can align with their goals. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Showcase Your Passion
Be ready to share your enthusiasm for food, farming, and outdoor learning. Prepare examples of how you've engaged children in these areas before. Whether it’s a memorable cooking session or a successful gardening project, let your passion shine through!
✨Demonstrate Your Skills
Highlight your experience working with primary-aged children. Discuss specific techniques you use to keep them engaged during hands-on activities. Mention any relevant health and safety practices you follow, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions to ask at the end of the interview. Inquire about the types of schools and farms you’ll be collaborating with, or ask how they measure the success of their programmes. This shows your interest and helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.