Environmental Education Learning Leader

Hampshire County Council; Romsey; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 27,000; Part time

Job summary

A local government authority is seeking an organized and creative Education Assistant to deliver engaging outdoor education sessions at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens. The role involves planning activities for school children and coordinating programs while offering a chance to inspire learners in a biodiverse setting. Candidates should have a background in educational or outdoor settings and be capable of leading activities. The position offers a temporary contract with varied hours and a supportive work environment.

Benefits

Access to world-class plant collections

Hands-on training

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Educated to A-Level or equivalent.
• Experience in educational or outdoor learning settings.
• Background in science desirable.

Responsibilities

• Deliver face-to-face education sessions for various visitors.
• Plan and coordinate programmes with colleagues and teachers.
• Design and organise activities like school visits and workshops.

Skills

Strong communication

Interpersonal skills

Knowledge of nature

Basic IT literacy

Education

A-Level or equivalent

First Aid qualification

Teaching qualification

Job description

Job Reference: HCC623061
Salary Range: £25,186 - £26,244 pro-rata, per annum
Work Location: Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey
Hours per week: 12 (Tuesdays and Wednesday preferred) or 37
Contract Type: Temporary until 31 July 2026 (Term‑Tme only)
Closing Date: 29 January 2026
Interview Date: 2 February 2026

This is an exciting opportunity to join the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Education team, where we deliver a high‑quality programme to over 12,000 school children each year.

Hillier Gardens is an exceptional plant collection of international significance. With a purpose‑built Education Centre, Children’s Education Garden, and 180 acres of mixed garden, woodland and meadow, the site is also an important centre for education and conservation.

The Role:

We are looking for an organised, creative, adaptable, and independent individual with previous experience of using the outdoors as a living classroom to deliver school sessions, family activities and community events in our busy spring and summer seasons. Following on‑site training, you will teach using the garden as a living resource. With a genuine enthusiasm for, and interest in, how people use outdoor spaces, this post offers you the chance to make every visitor’s experience memorable for all the right reasons. The ability to thrive and communicate effectively (with a smile) is essential. A recognised qualification in a related subject would be an advantage. Essential hours expected to be Monday‑Friday in term time, with additional hours by arrangement. Interviews will consist of a group session in the morning, followed by individual interviews, and you will be expected to prepare a short session where you will teach a skill outdoors.

What you’ll do:

• Deliver engaging face‑to‑face education sessions for a wide range of visitors, both on‑site and occasionally off‑site.
• Work closely with colleagues, teachers, volunteers, and other departments to plan and coordinate programmes.
• Help design and organise activities such as school visits, holiday events, and family workshops, preparing high‑quality resources and leading sessions.
• Support general administration, including managing enquiries and maintaining records.
• Research new ideas for events and activities while staying up to date with curriculum requirements and educational trends.

What we’re looking for:

• Qualifications: Educated to A‑Level or equivalent. First Aid and teaching qualification and science background desirable.
• Experience: Proven background in educational or outdoor learning settings, working with children, families, volunteers and the general public. Ability to lead activities and special events.
• Knowledge & Skills: Understanding of the National Curriculum (Early Years, KS1 & KS2), strong communication and interpersonal skills, basic IT literacy, and ability to manage time effectively. Sound gardens/nature/wildlife knowledge.
• Personal Attributes: Flexible, proactive, and able to work independently; physically capable for a full school day of outdoor activities.
• Desirable Extras: Ability to bring forward creative ideas and adapt quickly to new skills and conditions.

Joining the Education Service at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens means becoming part of an award‑winning team that inspires learning in one of the UK’s most beautiful and biodiverse settings. You’ll deliver engaging, curriculum‑linked outdoor education that sparks curiosity and fosters environmental stewardship in thousands of learners each year. This role offers the chance to make a tangible impact—connecting communities, supporting inclusive learning, and promoting sustainability.

As part of Hampshire County Council, you’ll benefit from a supportive, progressive workplace committed to professional development and equal opportunities. With access to world‑class plant collections, hands‑on training, and an innovative educational environment, you’ll grow your skills while shaping the next generation’s understanding of nature.

This post is subject to a Criminal Records Check.

Contact Details for an Informal Discussion:

Hampshire County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults. We expect all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment.
In order to combat discrimination, no unnecessary conditions or requirements will be applied which could have a disproportionately adverse effect on any one group. All sections of the population will have equal access to jobs. No applicant or employee will receive less favourable treatment because of age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, marriage or civil partnership and pregnancy or maternity, unless a Genuine Occupational Requirement (GOR) applies.
We are a Disability Confident Employer — committed to ensuring that our recruitment and selection process is inclusive and accessible.

To find out more about what we can offer you, please see our benefits package.