Support, nurture, inspire, empower
Location: West Yarner
On Track Education
On Track Education provides specialist education for young people with diverse and complex needs. Established in 2004 by a dedicated team of Special Educational Needs (SEN) teachers, we now operate nine independent schools across England. At the heart of our philosophy is a commitment to providing a nurturing, personalised, and needs-led educational experience, aiming to restore young people’s self-confidence and self-motivation through flexible programmes that combine academic, vocational, and outdoor learning opportunities.
On Track West Yarner
On Track Education West Yarner is an independent special school for pupils aged 7–16, offering 52 places across two sites in Dartington and Seale Hayne. We provide small group and individualised learning tailored to pupils with a range of special educational needs, with a strong focus on social, emotional and communication development. Our motivational and progressive curriculum is underpinned by the therapeutic principles of THRIVE®, supporting each pupil’s personal growth and resilience. At the heart of our approach are the strong, trusting relationships between staff and pupils, creating a safe, inclusive environment where every young person is supported to overcome barriers, thrive, and achieve their true potential.
The role
We are looking for an enthusiastic and creative Forest School Lead to join our team at On Track West Yarner, covering a period of maternity leave. Based both at our West Yarner site and our dedicated forest school site, you will have the chance to inspire and engage young people through hands-on outdoor learning. As Forest School Lead, you will:
1. Plan, prepare and deliver high-quality Forest School sessions that motivate and engage pupils.
2. Work closely with teaching staff and the Senior Leadership Team to align lessons with wider curriculum goals.
3. Set clear, achievable targets for pupils’ learning and personal progress, recognising and adapting to each pupil’s individual needs.
4. Plan and deliver inclusive learning experiences that meet the special educational needs of pupils.
5. Assess pupil progress, providing regular, constructive feedback in line with school policy.
6. Create a safe, supportive and inspiring outdoor learning environment where every pupil can thrive.
About you
We’re looking for a passionate and committed individual who believes in the power of outdoor education to change lives. Ideally, you will bring:
7. A recognised teaching qualification or considerable educational experience.
8. A Level 3 Forest School qualification and proven experience leading Forest School sessions.
9. Experience of working with young people in an SEN environment.
10. The ability to deliver sessions that are engaging, practical and inspiring.
11. A positive approach to behaviour management and a commitment to helping young people succeed.
12. A full driving licence and access to your own vehicle, as the role involves travel between sites.
Why join On Track Education?
13. Be part of a nationwide group of schools led by innovative, supportive professionals.
14. Work in a setting that combines a holistic approach to learning with a strong focus on emotional and social development.
15. Help make a lasting difference to the lives of young people who may have been educationally overlooked in traditional settings.
16. Join a welcoming, committed and supportive team.
17. Workplace pension.
Salary & benefits
£25,410 to £28,060 per annum, this will be pro rata for part-time hours.
Company benefits include:
18. Online GP access
19. Retailer discounts
20. Wellbeing programmes
21. Free eye tests and flu jabs
Working hours
Four days a week: am to pm per day
For further details on this role, please download our Information Pack for Job Applicants.
Safeguarding and equality statement
On Track Education Services is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and we expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Safeguarding is central to everything we do, and all staff are required to remain vigilant and responsive to any child protection concerns.
As part of our safer recruitment process, robust pre-employment checks will be carried out before any appointment is confirmed. This includes a full Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, as amended by the Exceptions Orders 1975, 2013 and 2020, therefore, certain spent convictions and cautions are protected and do not need to be disclosed. If disclosed in error, they will not be taken into consideration.
On Track Education is an equal opportunity employer, and we welcome applications from all candidates, regardless of gender, age, marital status, disability, race, religion, or sexual orientation.