Head of Special Educational Needs (Care Farm) - London NW7 4EY

Institute for Outdoor Learning; London; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a passionate Head of Farm Services to lead their unique care farm. This role involves overseeing daily operations, managing a dedicated team, and delivering high-quality educational services. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in special educational needs, a love for the outdoors, and a desire to positively impact individuals' lives. Join a committed team in a rewarding environment that fosters growth and independence for all clients while enjoying a range of perks and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

25 days annual leave + 8 bank holidays

'Me Day' + £20 treat

Ongoing support and development

Discounted shopping & services

Free eye care vouchers

Free DBS check

Company Pension Scheme

Longevity Service Awards

Fun social events

Qualifications

• Proven background in managing teams in special education or care settings.
• Experience in outdoor and horticultural environments is essential.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily farm operations and manage the farm team effectively.
• Develop outreach programs and educational activities for various groups.
• Ensure safety and compliance in all farm activities and participant interactions.

Skills

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

Project Management

Interpersonal Skills

Organizational Skills

Outdoor Education

Problem-Solving

Education

Relevant Degree in Education or Social Care

Tools

Health and Safety Regulations

First Aid

Job description

• Head of Special Educational Needs (Care Farm) - London NW7 4EY

Contract type: Full time

Head of Special Educational Needs (Care Farm) at SweetTree Home Care Services

Reporting to: Director of Specialist Services
Schedule: Monday - Friday 9am-5pm. 37.5 hours weekly.
Salary: £40,000 - £50,000 per annum

Our Commitment to Exceptional Care:
At SweetTree, we do not just provide care – we create meaningful connections and enhance the lives of vulnerable individuals. Our dedicated team has the experience and skills to work with children, adults, and older people with a variety of care and support needs. Our 14-acre farm at Sweet Tree Fields offers a wide range of activities, including livestock farming, horticulture, bush crafts, conservation, eco, natural crafts, and cooking. SweetTree Home Care Services is a leading provider with an Outstanding rating from the CQC.

The Role:
We are seeking a passionate and dedicated Head of Farm Services to lead the delivery of our unique care farm in Mill Hill, London. If you have a strong background in special educational needs (SEN), a love for the outdoors, and a desire to make a positive impact on people's lives, we invite you to join our team.

Responsibilities:
As the Head of Farm Services, your role is pivotal in ensuring the success and growth of our Farm Services. You will lead a dedicated team and work closely with various stakeholders to achieve the following:

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the farm and manage the workload of the farm team.
• Develop and expand the Managed Service by collaborating with internal company stakeholders.
• Deliver high-quality, education-focused services to enable the growth, independence, and development of all clients and organisations visiting the farm.
• Effectively manage the farm budget, including project budget management, reporting, and monitoring and evaluation.
• Create and deliver inspiring outreach programs that cater to various user groups and interests.
• Lead group educational programs and activities, including nature trails, arts and crafts, and cookery.
• Promote and advocate for SweetTree Farm to clients, community groups, schools, and other relevant bodies.
• Collaborate with company directors and the Marketing Manager to fulfil growth and marketing goals.
• Ensure the care, well-being, and handling of all farm livestock.
• Maintain records and compliance in areas including client development, health and safety, and land use.
• Perform risk assessments to ensure the safety of farm staff and participants.
• Manage and develop grant funding and volunteering programs.
• Act as the ultimate backstop for Farm Workers during their absence.
• Represent the managed services in both internal meetings and external stakeholder engagements.
• Uphold the independence and dignity of all clients and participants, while respecting diversity and different cultures.
• Maintain confidentiality and observe data protection guidelines.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Proven professional background in special education needs (SEN) or care, with a track record of managing teams and complex activity-based settings.
• Passion for the outdoors and solid experience working in outdoor, horticultural, or farm-based settings.
• Experience in project management and collaboration with various partners.
• Experience in supporting individuals with a variety of needs in group settings.
• Experience working with young people, vulnerable groups, and those with challenging behaviours.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to be authoritative, persuasive, and motivational.
• A proactive and solutions-oriented attitude.
• Excellent organisational skills with a strong focus on customer service.
• Strong literacy and computer skills.
• Working knowledge of first aid and relevant health and safety issues in outdoor settings.
• Willingness to work in an outdoor setting in a practical, off-grid farm office.

What’s in It for You?

• 25 days annual leave + 8 bank holidays
• A 'Me Day' – an extra day off + £20 to treat yourself
• Ongoing support and development, with accredited training
• Discounted shopping & services platforms
• Free eye care vouchers
• Free DBS check
• Company Pension Scheme
• Longevity Service Awards
• Fun social events (Christmas & Summer parties!)

Dress Code: Professional attire meeting health and safety requirements.

If you are passionate about making a positive impact through outdoor education and care and possess the essential experience, skills, and attitudes outlined above, we encourage you to apply for the position of Head of Farm Services at SweetTree Farm. Join us in our mission to help clients and communities thrive in harmony with the natural environment.

To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are the ideal candidate for this role. SweetTree Farm is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates.