Farm Manager

Prism Independent School; Bradford; On-site; GBP 41,000 - 51,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading independent school is seeking a Farm Manager to oversee daily operations and educational activities on a dynamic farm setting. The role focuses on animal husbandry, land management, and curriculum delivery aligned with educational standards. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in farm management, educational delivery, and the ability to engage students in practical learning experiences.

Qualifications

• Experience managing a working farm or educational farm site.
• Knowledge of health and safety legislation.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the farm, ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.
• Design and deliver a comprehensive farm-based curriculum.
• Manage and support a team of teachers and volunteers.

Skills

Animal husbandry

Land care

Facility management

Communication

Planning and organisational skills

People management

Education

Level 6 Teaching Qualification

Qualification in animal care, agriculture, or land-based studies

Job description

Job Title: Farm Manager

Salary: NJC Scales

Unqualified: PO3 Bands 32 – 35 £41,511 - £44,711

Qualified: PO5 Bands 38 – 41 £47,754 - £50,788

Hours: Full-time 37 hours per week

Location: Prism Youth Project

Responsible To: Deputy Head Teacher.

Job Purpose

To lead and manage the day-to-day operations of the farm, ensuring high standards of animal care, land management, and educational delivery. The Farm Manager will be responsible for managing school and youth group engagement, supervising staff, maintaining facilities, and ensuring compliance with all relevant health, safety, and regulatory frameworks. The role includes the delivery and development of a curriculum that meets the needs of pupils and aligns with Ofsted and Department for Education (DfE) standards.

Key Responsibilities

Operational and Site Management

• Oversee the daily operations of the farm, including livestock, land maintenance, and use of equipment and facilities.
• Ensure all health and safety standards are met, in line with the Department for Education, Ofsted, DEFRA, and other relevant regulatory bodies.
• Maintain detailed and accurate records for inspections, compliance, and reporting purposes.
• Ensure the site is safe, secure, and well-maintained for all users, including staff, pupils, and visitors.

Educational Leadership

• Design, deliver, and monitor a comprehensive farm-based curriculum tailored to pupil needs and national standards.
• Ensure alignment with Ofsted frameworks and Department for Education expectations, supporting inspections and audits as needed.
• Lead on curriculum planning, lesson implementation, and assessment where appropriate.
• Promote outdoor learning and real-world engagement through land-based and animal care activities.

Staff and Volunteer Management

• Manage and support a team of teachers, teaching assistants, farm staff, and volunteers.
• Provide leadership, training, and development opportunities to ensure a high-performing team.
• Coordinate staff scheduling, responsibilities, and performance appraisals.
• Ensure safeguarding and pastoral care for pupils and volunteers is maintained at all times.

Engagement and Collaboration

• Manage the coordination and supervision of school groups, youth groups, and volunteers visiting or working on site.
• Collaborate with internal teams and other managers to ensure integrated planning and delivery of education and farm operations.
• Build positive relationships with external stakeholders, funders, regulators, and local communities.
• Represent the farm in meetings, events, and strategic planning discussions.

Person Specification

Essential

• Level 6 Teaching Qualification (e.g., PGCE, QTS, or equivalent) required for appointment on the qualified teacher pay scale.
• Proven experience managing a working farm or educational farm site.
• Strong knowledge of animal husbandry, land care, and facility management.
• Experience in delivering or overseeing educational programmes in a school, alternative education, or youth setting.
• Understanding of Ofsted, DfE, and DEFRA standards and regulatory frameworks.
• Demonstrable leadership and people management skills, including supervision of educational and operational staff.
• Knowledge of health and safety legislation, including risk assessments and safeguarding protocols.
• Excellent communication, planning, and organisational skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Desirable

• Qualification in animal care, agriculture, or land-based studies.
• First Aid at Work and/or Health and Safety certification.
• Experience working with young people with additional needs or challenging behaviours.
• Project management or experience managing external partnerships or grants.

Additional Requirements

• Enhanced DBS check will be required.
• Flexibility in working hours may be required for events or peak operational periods.
• The role involves outdoor working in varying weather conditions.