Forest School Leader / Outdoor Education Instructor

Tradewind Recruitment; Lancashire; On-site; GBP 29,000 - 35,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Term-time only

Path to permanent contract

specialist support

Job summary

Tradewind Recruitment is seeking an energetic Forest School Leader to deliver therapeutic, nature-based learning for Key Stage 2 to 4 pupils in the Burnley/Colne area. The role is full-time, temp-to-perm, and term-time only, with an immediate start and a clear pathway to longer-term employment.

The successful candidate will design engaging outdoor sessions, support SEMH and SEND learners, and use bushcraft and nature crafts to boost confidence and resilience, while maintaining strong

Qualifications

• Experience with vulnerable young people, SEMH pupils, or AP/PRU/SEND settings.
• Strong outdoor education delivery and safeguarding awareness.
• Ability to design and lead small-group Forest School sessions.

Responsibilities

• Design, risk-assess, and lead Forest School/outdoor sessions for KS2–KS4.
• Support SEMH, ADHD, ASC pupils in outdoor learning environments.
• Use bushcraft, conservation activities, team challenges and nature crafts to build confidence and resilience.
• Apply de-escalation techniques and positive behaviour strategies to ensure safety.
• Collaborate with pastoral leads and SENCOs to track learner progress.

Skills

Practical bushcraft

Risk assessment

Behaviour management

Education

Level 3 Forest School Leader certification (preferred) or related Outdoor Education/Teaching qualification

Job description

Location: Burnley & Colne area, Lancashire (BB8 / BB9 / BB10 / BB11)

Salary: Up to 31,850 per annum (equivalent daily rate on temp-to-perm)

Contract Type: Full-time, Temp-to-Perm (Term Time Only)

Start Date: Immediate / Next Term

Are you an energetic Forest School Leader or Outdoor Education Practitioner passionate about re-engaging young people outside the traditional classroom?

A dedicated Alternative Provision (AP) serving the Burnley and Colne area is looking for an experienced, hands‑on outdoor educator to lead therapeutic, nature‑based learning sessions. This role is offered on a temp-to-perm basis, giving you a smooth transition into a secure, long‑term post.

The Role

• Design, risk‑assess, and lead engaging Forest School and outdoor education sessions for small groups of learners (Key Stage 2 to Key Stage 4).

• Support pupils with SEMH (Social, Emotional, and Mental Health needs), ADHD, and Autism (ASC) by creating a calm, therapeutic outdoor learning environment.

• Use bushcraft, practical conservation, team challenges, and nature‑based crafts to build confidence, resilience, and teamwork.

• Apply de‑escalation techniques and positive behaviour management strategies to ensure pupil safety and well‑being.

• Collaborate with pastoral leads, SENCOs, and the wider school leadership team to track learner progress and engagement.

Key Requirements

• Qualifications: Level 3 Forest School Leader certification (preferred) or a relevant Outdoor Education / Teaching qualification.

• Experience: Proven track record working with vulnerable young people, SEMH pupils, or within an Alternative Provision (AP) / Pupil Referral Unit (PRU) / SEND setting.

• Skills: Strong practical bushcraft/outdoor skills, risk assessment capability, and confident behaviour management.

• Safeguarding: An Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to apply for one).

• Location: Commutable across Burnley, Colne, Nelson, Pendle, and surrounding East Lancashire areas.

Benefits & Package

• Competitive salary up to 31,850 per annum (pro‑rata / daily equivalent during initial contract).

• Clear pathway to a permanent school contract following successful placement.

• Term‑time only working pattern (balanced hours, no weekend work).

• Dedicated specialist support, small group sizes, and high staff‑to‑pupil ratios.