Outdoor Learning Support Assistant

Bridgwater & Taunton College Trust; South Somerset; On-site; GBP 6,000 - 18,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent educational institution in South Somerset is seeking two Outdoor Learning Support Assistants / Bus Chaperones to cover maternity leave. This role involves supporting vulnerable students aged 5-16, primarily through outdoor activities including gardening and forest school. Candidates should possess GCSE qualifications in English and maths. The position offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in students' lives while working in an engaging environment.

Benefits

Local government pension scheme with employer contributions

Employee Reward Scheme with discounts

Positive and supportive working environment

On-site gyms

Free parking

Access to retail discounts

Employee Assistance Programme

Qualifications

• Educated to at least GCSE (or equivalent) grade C in English and maths.
• Committed to building strong relationships with others.

Responsibilities

• Support and intervene for vulnerable students.
• Provide outdoor learning experiences.
• Work in gardens, forest school, and with animals.

Job description

Outdoor Learning Support Assistant / Bus Chaperone (Maternity Cover)

2 Positions available – 31.25 hours per week and 11 hours per week, 39 weeks per year (Term Time plus Inset days)

Salary: BTCT points 3, Actual starting salary: 31.25 hours per week - £17,855 per annum. 11 hours per week: £6,285 per annum.

The Apex centre is an offsite provision proving support and intervention services to vulnerable students attending the Bridgewater and Taunton College Academy trust of schools. Catering for students aged 5-16 set in its own purpose designed site in Crewkerne, Somerset with a small holding, gardens, workshops, classrooms and Forest school.

We are seeking to appoint 2 outdoor Learning Support Assistant and Bus Chaperone’s on a temporary basis to cover maternity leave. You will join our experienced team of support and teaching staff, who are responsible for developing the skills and unlocking the potential of young people who are struggling to access their mainstream school.

This is a chance to work in an exciting provision providing a bespoke curriculum to match each individual learner's needs. The post includes mostly working outdoors in the gardens, forest school or with our small collection of animals. This role provides the opportunity to make a real difference to individuals who deserve every success in life.

Successful candidates will be educated to at least GCSE (or equivalent) grade C in English and maths and will be committed to building strong relationships with others and putting the students first.

What we offer

• Generous local government pension scheme with employer contributions of 24.4%
• Employee Reward Scheme, including high street discounts and a Staff Wellbeing Hub

Closing date for applications: 11:59pm on Sunday 1st February 2026

Interviews will take place week beginning 9th February 2026

We believe in hiring for potential and this means that we value individuals for the knowledge, skills and experience that they have developed in every aspect of their lives. If you don’t feel that you meet all of the criteria listed in the person specification, we would still encourage you to apply.

We care about our staff and provide a number of benefits in addition to salary including a positive and supportive working environment, employer pension contribution of at least 23%, generous annual leave entitlement for all-year round staff, on-site gyms, free parking, access to a retail discounts platform and Employee Assistance Programme. Helping you achieve a good work‑life balance is important to us. Lots of our colleagues work flexibly including part‑time hours and/or job shares and we are happy to discuss these opportunities with you.

We truly believe that diversity of thought, culture, background and perspective secure the best outcomes for our students. We strive to build teams that represent our local communities and welcome applications from individuals who identify as members of an under‑represented group and in particular individuals who identify as BAME, disabled or LGBT. We are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.

Bridgwater & Taunton College Trust is dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share its commitment. Our mission is that all children achieve. This post is exempt from Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (1974). A comprehensive screening process will be undertaken on all applicants, which will include a check with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).