Outdoor Education Teaching Assistant
Specialist Secondary School (Boys – SEMH)
Salary: H4 Scale – £26,215–£27,632 FTE
Actual Salary: £19,393–£20,441 per annum (pro rata)
Hours: 32 hours per week, term time
Contract: Full-time (term time)
Start Date: September 2026
We are seeking an enthusiastic, resilient and motivated Outdoor Education Teaching Assistant to join a forward‑thinking secondary day special school supporting boys with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone passionate about outdoor learning, physical activity and positive youth development, and who enjoys working hands‑on with young people in practical and non‑traditional learning environments.
The Role
Working closely with teaching staff and pastoral teams, you will:
* Support the delivery of Outdoor Education programmes
* Assist with and support pupils undertaking the Duke of Edinburgh Award (DofE), including:
* Practical activities
* Skills development
* Teamwork and personal challenge
* Support and, where appropriate, help lead small group outdoor activities
* Encourage participation, resilience, confidence and emotional regulation
* Support positive behaviour and engagement in outdoor and off‑site activities
* Contribute to a well‑established Work Related Learning and Vocational Curriculum
* Act as a positive and consistent role model within a nurturing but high‑expectations environment
The Ideal Candidate Will:
* Have experience in outdoor education, youth work, sports leadership or similar
* Be confident supporting practical and physically active learning
* Have experience working with pupils with SEMH, behavioural or emotional needs (desirable but not essential)
* Be calm, patient and resilient, with strong communication skills
* Enjoy working outdoors in a variety of settings and weather conditions
* Be committed to safeguarding, teamwork and professional development
What We Offer:
* High‑quality training and ongoing professional development
* A supportive, reflective and collaborative staff culture
* The opportunity to work in a progressive and expanding specialist provision
* A strong commitment to staff wellbeing, recognition and reward
* Access to substantial staff discounts, including:
* Travel
* Health and fitness
* Legal and financial services
* Shopping, food and drink
* Entertainment, technology, motoring, gifts and learning
Additional Information:
* Paid trial day avaiable
* Visits to the school are warmly welcomed
If you are passionate about outdoor learning and making a positive difference in the lives of young people, we would be delighted to hear from you