Join our growing team of nature-based learning mentors
Position: Mentor (Freelance)
Location: Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) natural locations and community spaces.
Contract: Term-times only (39 weeks).
Hours: Flexible, usually between 9:00am–3:30pm.
Start: September.
Pay: £22–£33 per hour (depending on experience and mentor level offered).
Learning without walls
Do you believe nature, meaningful relationships and real-world experiences can change young lives?
We’re looking for compassionate, energetic and experienced freelance mentors to deliver personalised, nature-based programmes for children and young people (CYP) across BCP.
Many of our learners face barriers to education, including SEMH needs, anxiety, trauma, autism, ADHD and other SEND. Through outdoor learning, Forest School activities and community experiences, you’ll help them build confidence, resilience, life skills and a positive connection with learning.
The role
You’ll deliver one-to-one and possibly small-group sessions, tailored to each young person’s interests, strengths and goals or EHCP targets. You will also work closely with schools, families, local authorities and our team.
Sessions may include:
– Forest School, bushcraft and outdoor learning.
– Nature connection and emotional wellbeing.
– Conservation and environmental stewardship.
– Animal care (where appropriate).
– Community-based learning and life skills.
– Walks and physical activity.
– Creative outdoor arts and crafts.
– Confidence, independence and resilience building activities.
You’ll need to:
– Build positive, trauma-informed relationships with children and young adults.
– Plan and deliver engaging, target-led sessions.
– Keep accurate session notes and safeguarding records.
– Communicate effectively with families, professionals and your team.
– Follow safeguarding, GDPR and organisational policies.
– Work independently while also contributing to a supportive team.
We’re looking for someone who is:
– Passionate about outdoor learning and working with young people.
– Calm, adaptable, reliable and emotionally resilient.
– Skilled at building trust and motivating learners.
– Organised with excellent communication skills.
– Keen to learn, reflect and develop professionally.
– Happy getting a bit wet and muddy!
Essential Requirements
– Experience supporting vulnerable children or young people.
– First Aid or Outdoor First Aid certificate.
– Understanding of trauma-informed practice and supporting emotional wellbeing.
– Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle (with MOT and business insurance).
– Enhanced DBS (or willingness to obtain), and signed up to the DBS Update Service.
– Public Liability Insurance (or willingness to obtain).
– Safeguarding, GDPR and PREVENT training (or willingness to complete).
– GCSE Maths, English and Science (or equivalent).
– Right to work in the UK.
– Two references (one from current or most recent job).
Desirable skills and requirements:
– Forest School qualification.
– Outdoor education qualifications.
– Teaching or teaching assistant experience.
– Youth work experience.
– Coaching knowledge and/or experience.
– SEND/SEMH experience.
– A sturdy pair of shoes and all weather gear.
What we offer
– Flexible work around your availability.
– Competitive hourly rates (£22–£33 per hour).
– The opportunity to work in beautiful outdoor and community settings.
– A supportive, values-led team.
– Ongoing CPD and professional development.
– The chance to make a genuine difference to young people’s lives.
Our values
We believe every young person deserves to be understood, not judged. We put relationships first and use nature and community to inspire confidence, resilience and a love of learning.
Ready to make a real difference?
Please complete the job application form on our website and return it to us by email:
https://goeswildeducation.co.uk/join-our-team
Safer Recruitment:
All candidates must pass our strict recruitment processes to ensure their suitability to work with children and young people.
Pay: £22.00-£33.00 per hour
Work Location: On the road
