Location: Sunderland
Salary: FTE £24,575 - £26,622 (salary will be pro rata to TTO)
Hours: 37 hrs per week Term Time Only
Overview
This is an exciting opportunity to use outdoor adventure as a powerful tool for personal growth and positive change.
Working with small groups of young people, many of whom face barriers to learning, you will plan and deliver engaging outdoor activities that build confidence, resilience, independence and life skills.
You will typically work as part of a two-person team supporting small groups of students. Your role will focus on creating safe, enjoyable and challenging experiences that encourage young people to develop socially, emotionally and educationally.
Activities may include mountain biking, paddle sports, environmental projects and a range of adventurous and outdoor learning experiences.
You will play a key role throughout the learner journey, helping each young person engage with learning, achieve personal goals and progress towards positive future destinations.
About us
Springboard is a registered charity which aims to support the development of sustainable communities, by equipping people with essential skills for work and life. We create employable, life-ready learners through our accessible Study Programmes, Apprenticeships and Adult Skills courses.
Springboard is proud to be an Ofsted rated GOOD provider with almost 50 years of experience in the sector. We uphold the highest standards in everything we do, fostering positive learning environments and adapting to the needs of individuals. We hold the Matrix Award for Information, Advice and Guidance and Better Health at Work Gold Standard.
About You
We are looking for someone who believes in the power of outdoor learning to transform lives.
You will be passionate about supporting vulnerable young people and committed to helping them overcome challenges, develop confidence and achieve their potential.
You will be an excellent communicator who can build meaningful relationships with learners, colleagues and families, while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.
Most importantly, you will bring energy, enthusiasm and a genuine desire to make a positive difference.
Responsibilities
Outdoor Learning and Activity Delivery
- Plan and deliver safe, engaging and inclusive outdoor activities in accordance with organisational policies and licensing requirements.
- Support learners to participate in adventurous activities that promote confidence, self-esteem and personal development.
- Encourage positive risk-taking and resilience through outdoor experiences.
- Ensure all activities are effectively risk assessed and delivered to the highest safety standards.
Learner Support and Development
- Build positive, professional relationships with young people.
- Develop an understanding of individual learner needs and adapt delivery accordingly.
- Support learners with SEMH needs, SEND, behavioural challenges and other barriers to engagement.
- Promote positive behaviour, independence and personal responsibility.
- Encourage attendance, participation and sustained engagement.
Learning and Progression
- Plan high-quality learning experiences that support individual development and progression.
- Monitor learner progress and celebrate achievements.
- Provide constructive feedback and support learners to reach their goals.
- Embed English, maths, digital skills and employability skills within learning activities where appropriate.
- Contribute to learner reviews, reports and progression planning.
Safeguarding and Wellbeing
- Maintain a safe and inclusive learning environment for all learners.
- Adhere to safeguarding, Prevent, health and safety, and organisational policies at all times.
- Promote learner wellbeing and support young people to develop strategies for staying safe, including online.
Skills and experience
Qualifications
- At least one recognised National Governing Body (NGB) qualification in:
- Mountain Bike Leadership, or
- Paddle Sport Leadership (Candidates actively working towards an award are encouraged to apply and should clearly state this within their application.)
- Relevant qualification in youth work, learner support, education or a related field (or currently working towards one).
- Literacy and numeracy qualifications at Level 2 or above.
Experience
- Experience of working with young people in a youth work, community, alternative education or educational setting.
- Experience supporting vulnerable young people, including those with SEMH needs, SEND or behavioural challenges.
- Experience planning and delivering engaging programmes or activities.
Skills and Knowledge
- Strong understanding of safeguarding responsibilities and procedures.
- Ability to manage behaviours positively and effectively.
- Experience of writing and implementing risk assessments.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Digital skills, including Microsoft Office.
Other Requirements
- Full UK driving licence.
- Aged 21 or over and held a driving licence for a minimum of two years.
- No more than six penalty points on licence.
Desirable Requirements
- First Aid qualification.
- Additional outdoor activity qualifications and NGB awards.
- D1 entitlement for minibus driving.
- Experience within alternative provision environments.
- Knowledge of trauma-informed practice and restorative approaches.
Essential information
Springboard is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all learners. Safer recruitment practices are followed in line with the Department for Education’s Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance. This includes appropriate safeguarding checks and may involve online searches as part of our shortlisting process.
This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS check and requires a minimum of two satisfactory references.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds. If you require adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know—we are committed to supporting your needs.
Pay: £24,575.00-£26,622.00 per year
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Company pension
- Free parking
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Sick pay
Work Location: In person
