Are you passionate about outdoor education and empowering young people? Join our dedicated team as a Forest School Teacher/Practitioner at our Alternative Provision (AP) in Burnley! We're seeking inspiring individuals, whether qualified or with strong experience, to help our students thrive in a unique outdoor learning environment.
The Role: Forest School Teacher / Practitioner
You will lead and develop our Forest School program, providing engaging, learner-led outdoor experiences that support the social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development of our students. This role is about creating a safe, inspiring, and nurturing space for young people to connect with nature, build essential life skills, and achieve their personal best.
Key Responsibilities:
Plan and deliver engaging Forest School sessions for students within our Alternative Provision.
Facilitate child-led learning and exploration in a natural environment.
Assess and manage risks to ensure a safe learning space for all.
Foster positive relationships with students, promoting self-esteem and resilience.
Observe and record student progress, contributing to individual learning plans.
Maintain the Forest School site and equipment to high standards.
Collaborate with other educators and support staff within the AP.
Adapt activities to meet the diverse needs of students (e.g., SEND, SEMH).
Who We're Looking For:
We welcome applications from passionate individuals at various stages of their Forest School journey.
Unqualified / Experienced Forest School Practitioner:
Demonstrable experience working with children or young people in an outdoor, educational, or youth work setting.
A strong understanding and passion for the Forest School ethos and principles.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to connect with young people who may have complex needs.
Resilience, patience, and a calm approach to challenging behaviours.
Practical skills relevant to outdoor education (e.g., basic tool use, fire lighting).
Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
Willingness to undertake Forest School Leader training (Level 3 or equivalent) within an agreed timeframe.
Qualified Forest School Teacher / Leader:
Minimum Level 3 Forest School Leader qualification (or equivalent).
Proven experience planning and delivering Forest School programs, ideally within an Alternative Provision or SEND setting.
Strong understanding of safeguarding and risk management in an outdoor environment.
Ability to differentiate activities effectively for diverse learning needs (e.g., SEND, SEMH, challenging behaviour).
Excellent behaviour management skills with a positive, nurturing approach.
Relevant teaching qualification is desirable but not essential.
Why Join Us in Burnley?
Make a genuine difference: Empower young people to discover their potential in a unique setting.
Supportive environment: Work within a dedicated team passionate about alternative education.
Professional Development: Opportunities for ongoing training and growth in outdoor education.
Competitive Salary: Commensurate with experience and qualifications.
Impactful Role: Lead an exciting program that directly benefits student well-being and learning.
Located in Burnley: Easy access and a local community focus.
Apply Now!
If you are a passionate and dedicated individual ready to inspire young minds through the power of nature, we encourage you to apply!
Please submit your CV and a compelling Cover Letter outlining your experience, your philosophy on Forest School, and why you are the ideal candidate for this role at our Burnley Alternative Provision.
Email Applications to: (url removed) Application Deadline: ASAP.
Please note: This position is subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people