We are seeking a skilled and passionate Outdoor Learning and Forest School Instructor to lead and develop a high-quality, therapeutic outdoor learning provision for pupils with complex needs.
Role Summary
You will design and deliver inclusive outdoor learning across all phases, including KS3 provision, using approaches such as forest school, horticulture, and environmental learning. The role focuses on promoting independence, wellbeing, and functional life skills through a therapeutic, person-centred approach aligned with EHCP outcomes and Conductive Education principles.
Key Responsibilities
- Outdoor Learning Delivery: Plan and deliver engaging, safe, and inclusive outdoor learning experiences tailored to pupils with complex needs
- Curriculum & Therapeutic Practice: Embed outdoor learning within the wider curriculum, supporting personal development, resilience, communication, and independence
- Qualification Pathway: Develop a progressive accredited pathway (e.g. Foundation Learning, with BTEC/City & Guilds planned from 2027), ensuring accessibility and meaningful outcomes
- Duke of Edinburgh Award: Lead and coordinate an inclusive DofE programme, ensuring compliance, accessibility, and successful participation
- Preparation for Adulthood: Provide vocational and land-based learning opportunities, developing transferable skills and real-world experiences through partnerships and community engagement
- Environment Development: Maintain and enhance outdoor learning spaces, ensuring they are safe, accessible, and promote high-quality learning
- Collaboration & Assessment: Work as part of a transdisciplinary team, monitor pupil progress, and contribute to assessment and reporting
- Safeguarding & Safety: Ensure all provision meets safeguarding, health and safety, and risk management requirements, while promoting positive risk-taking
About You
- Experience or strong interest in outdoor learning, forest school, or land-based education
- Commitment to inclusive, therapeutic practice
- Ability to support pupils with additional or complex needs (experience desirable)
- Strong organisational and teamwork skills
- Commitment to safeguarding and pupil wellbeing
This is a unique opportunity to shape and grow outdoor learning provision, supporting pupils to build confidence, independence, and readiness for adulthood.
Our Core Values:
➡️Supportive: Helping everyone reach their full potential.
➡️Ambitious: Striving for the best outcomes.
➡️Loyal: Prioritising our staff and the people we support.
➡️Unique: Innovating without compromising quality.
➡️Transparent: Fostering openness and mutual respect.
➡️Engaging: Partnering with everyone involved.
➡️Meaningful: Offering fulfilling opportunities.
Why Choose Us?
✅Emotional Support: 24/7 Employee Assistance, mental health resources, meditation apps, and bereavement support.
✅ Medical Support: Free Online GP access, Health Cash Plan, Cancer Cover, and Menopause support.
✅ Financial Support: Flexible pay with Wagestream, utility bill savings, Money Helper, and Life Assurance.
✅ Physical Support: Online workouts, Cycle to Work scheme, gym discounts, and National Trust activities.
Still not convinced?
Recognised as a Top Employer United Kingdom 2026 by the Top Employers Institute.
Named among the Top 100 Global Inspiring Workplaces by Inspiring Workplaces.
- Proud to be a Disability Confident Committed employer.
Salutem Care and Education is dedicated to protecting and promoting the well-being of children, young adults, and vulnerable individuals. As part of our safer recruitment process, the successful candidate will be required to complete thorough pre-employment checks, including an enhanced DBS and, where applicable, overseas criminal record checks.
