At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead outdoor learning sessions and support students with special educational needs.
- Company: Join a dedicated team in a supportive, rural school environment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to £28k and direct employment with the school.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on vulnerable young people through outdoor education.
- Qualifications: No teaching degree needed; experience in youth work or outdoor activities valued.
- Other info: Work in all weather conditions and be part of a close-knit community.
The predicted salary is between 21000 - 28000 £ per year.
Location: Near Colne / Burnley, Lancashire
Contract Type: Direct Contract with the School (Permanent/Fixed Term)
Salary: Up to 28k
Start Date: 02/02/2026 or sooner ideally
About the Role
Are you a passionate outdoors person looking to move into a rewarding teaching role? Our Alternative Provision (AP) is seeking an Unqualified Outdoor Education Teacher to join our dedicated team near Colne and Burnley. We provide a bespoke learning environment for young people with Special Educational Needs (SEN) who find traditional classroom settings challenging. This is a direct contract with the school, ensuring you are a fully integrated member of our staff from day one.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver Outdoor Learning: Lead engaging sessions in bushcraft, forest school, horticulture, or outdoor physical education.
- Support SEN Students: Adapt your approach to support students with complex needs, including SEMH (Social, Emotional, and Mental Health) and ASD.
- Build Resilience: Help students develop life skills, confidence, and emotional regulation through nature-based activities.
- Collaborative Working: Work as part of a specialist team to ensure a safe, nurturing, and high-standard educational environment.
Requirements & Qualifications
- No Teaching Degree Required: We value hands‑on experience in youth work, coaching, forest schools, or the military/outdoor industry.
- Passion for Mentoring: A genuine desire to improve the outcomes of vulnerable young people in an AP setting.
- Adaptability: You must be comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions and possess a calm, resilient nature.
- Safeguarding: Upon successful appointment, an enhanced DBS check will be required.
Why Join Our Alternative Provision?
- Direct Employment: This is a direct school contract, not an agency placement.
- Impact: See the tangible difference outdoor education makes for students who struggle in mainstream schools.
- Local Community: We are a supportive, tight‑knit team based in a beautiful rural setting easily commutable from Burnley, Colne, and Nelson.
How to Apply
If you have the energy and experience to inspire our students, we would love to hear from you. Please send your CV and a brief cover letter to (url removed) or click apply.
Unqualified Outdoor Education Teacher - SEN AP employer: Tradewind Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Tradewind Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Unqualified Outdoor Education Teacher - SEN AP
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school and its values! Research their approach to outdoor education and SEN support. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff members on LinkedIn or local community groups. They can provide insider info about the school culture and what they look for in candidates, giving you an edge.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for practical demonstrations! Since this role involves outdoor learning, be ready to showcase your skills in bushcraft or physical education during the interview. Bring along ideas for engaging activities that could benefit SEN students.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and making a positive impact in the lives of young people.
We think you need these skills to ace Unqualified Outdoor Education Teacher - SEN AP
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for outdoor education shine through in your application. We want to see how your love for the outdoors can inspire and engage our students, especially those with SEN.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially in youth work or outdoor activities. We’re looking for hands-on experience, so don’t be shy about showcasing your skills!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've supported young people in challenging environments and how you plan to adapt your approach for our students.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently, so we can start the conversation about your future with our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Tradewind Recruitment
✨Know Your Outdoor Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of outdoor education activities like bushcraft and forest school. Be ready to share your experiences and how they can benefit students with SEN. This shows your passion and understanding of the role.
✨Show Your Adaptability
Since you'll be working outdoors in all weather, it’s crucial to demonstrate your adaptability. Think of examples where you've successfully navigated challenging situations, especially in outdoor settings. This will highlight your resilience and calm nature.
✨Connect with the Mission
Familiarise yourself with the values of the Alternative Provision. Be prepared to discuss why you’re passionate about supporting vulnerable young people and how you can contribute to their growth. This connection can really resonate with the interviewers.
✨Team Player Vibes
Collaboration is key in this role, so think of times when you've worked as part of a team. Share specific examples that showcase your ability to work well with others, especially in a supportive or educational environment. It’ll show you’re a great fit for their tight-knit team.