HOW TO APPLY
You must complete our official application form. In line with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) and our safeguarding procedures, we are unable to accept CVs in place of a completed application form. Applications submitted without a fully completed application form will not be considered for the role.
ABOUT THE OUTDOORS SCHOOL
The Outdoors School is an Independent Special School based entirely in a woodland setting, supporting learners with SEMH, Autism and ADHD. We are committed to developing the whole learner, not just academic ability, through a project-based approach that promotes autonomy, lifelong learning, and personal growth.
Alongside our main school setting, we provide a separate, bespoke strand of provision within the school that is tailored to individual learners. This may take place in woodland, home, or community settings and is typically on a 1:1 or 2:1 basis. Each programme is fully individualised, shaped around what each child needs, meaning no two timetables or approaches look the same. Provision may include a blend of outdoor learning, home-based education, and online learning, depending on the learner.
We support children and young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs (SEMH), autism spectrum condition, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), emotional based school avoidance who have moderate learning difficulties.
For this role, we currently have two learners requiring support: one based in Crediton and the other in the Exeter area. As this position involves supporting one learner, please indicate your preferred location when submitting your application.
For all our roles, a DBS and reference checks are required. The Outdoors Group Ltd is committed to the safeguarding of all staff, children, young people and vulnerable adults involved in its activities and in promoting their welfare.
JOB DESCRIPTION
As an Hybrid Education Facilitator, you will support the educational, emotional, and social development of learners through project-based learning and enrichment opportunities. You will work 1:1, in pairs, or small groups, primarily outdoors in woodland and community settings, and at times in detached settings or learners’ homes.
You will support children and young people, many with additional needs such as autism, ADHD, or social, emotional, and mental health challenges, through individualised learning experiences based on the learners passion and interest. Support is typically provided on a 1:1, 2:1, or small group basis and are shaped around each learner’s needs, interests, and stage of development.
This is a dynamic role where no two days are the same, and each learner’s provision will look different. If you would like, we would be happy to provide a profile on the learner you may be supporting.
A key part of this role involves transporting learners to and from sessions, activities, and community locations. You must hold a full driving licence, have access to a vehicle, and be willing to use your vehicle for work purposes.
You will be required to have Business Car Insurance. This is an extension of standard car insurance that allows you to use your vehicle for work-related travel, including transporting learners. If you do not currently have this, it can usually be added to your existing policy at a small additional cost. Any additional cost for upgrading to business insurance will be reimbursed by the organisation, and support can be provided to arrange this.
Please note that being able to drive and transport learners is a compulsory requirement for this role. The position cannot be carried out without it.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
- Provide personalised support aligned with individual learner plans
- Foster positive relationships and promote learner wellbeing
- Maintain accurate records and communicate with families and professionals
- Work flexibly across woodland, home, and community settings
- Transport learners safely where required as part of their provision
- Engage in training, supervision, and ongoing professional development
- Manage behaviour and contribute to assessments and risk management plans
Special Requirements
- Resilience to work outdoors in all weather conditions and emotionally demanding environments
- Willingness to undertake physically demanding tasks including walking, hiking, carrying equipment, and use of hand tools
- Ability to support learners who may present with dysregulated or challenging behaviours
Additional Information
- Must adhere to safeguarding, lone working, and travel policies
- Enhanced DBS and relevant training required
- A full driving licence and use of a vehicle is essential for this role
ESSENTIAL SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE
- Excellent behaviour management skills with a strong emphasis on solution-focused approaches and bespoke SEMH support
- Strong support skills with a commitment to critical reflection and professional development
- Well-developed interpersonal and communication skills written and verbal
- A learner-focused approach with the ability to differentiate and create bespoke opportunities
- Recent experience working with Primary or Secondary learners with SEMH difficulties and ASD or PDA
DESIRABLE SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE
- Experience working within outdoor education or Forest School settings
- Knowledge of behaviour intervention and support strategies
- Understanding of inter-agency working
- De-escalation and physical intervention training such as PRICE, Team Teach, MAPA, or PIP
- Experience supporting learners with SEN, SEMH, or personalised provision
- Knowledge of child development and trauma-informed practice
ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS AND TRAINING
- 5 GCSE’s grade A-C or equivalent
- Willingness to undergo training the organisation feels is appropriate
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS AND TRAINING
- Outdoor, Adventure, or Forest School qualifications
- Paediatric First Aid
- Safeguarding Level 2
- Forest School Leader Level 3
ESSENTIAL PERSONAL QUALITIES
- Ability to apply creativity, enthusiasm, and resourcefulness to inspire learner-led engagement in project-based learning
- Commitment to and passion for the forest school ethos
- Resilience to working outdoors in all weather conditions
- Enthusiasm and drive for continuous improvement
- Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a small team
- Commitment to improving outcomes for children and families
- Strong commitment to safeguarding and safe practice
- Commitment to equal opportunities
- High expectations of work and behaviour
DESIRABLE PERSONAL QUALITIES
- Sense of humour
- Forward-thinking
