SEND Learning Support (Outdoor Education)

Axcis Education Recruitment; Bristol; On-site; GBP 10,000 - 15,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading educational recruitment agency is seeking a SEND Outdoor Learning Support Assistant in Bristol. The role involves working with young people with special educational needs in outdoor settings, promoting engagement and independence. Ideal candidates are passionate about outdoor education and adaptable. Flexible work patterns are available, making this a rewarding opportunity to make a difference in young people's lives.

Benefits

Flexible work patterns

Long-term opportunities

Supportive learning environment

Qualifications

• Commitment to gaining experience in outdoor or non-traditional learning settings.
• Sensitivity to non-verbal communication.
• Willingness to work in variable weather.

Responsibilities

• Support learning for children with SEND in outdoor environments.
• Assist in planning and implementing outdoor sessions.
• Monitor and report on pupil engagement and wellbeing.

Skills

Experience with children with SEND

Enthusiasm for outdoor education

Ability to adapt to different needs

Patience and resilience

Team player

Job description

Role Summary

• Work with children and young people with SEND in outdoor environments — gardens, forest‑school zones, horticulture, nature‑based projects — to support learning, engagement and physical activity.
• Support small groups or 1:1, promoting life skills, independence, communication and social interaction through outdoor tasks and experiential learning.
• Assist in planning and implementing outdoor sessions that link to pupils’ individual Education, Health & Care Plans (EHCPs) and stage‑based curriculum goals.
• Observe, monitor and report on pupil engagement, progress and wellbeing during outdoor sessions; adapt your approach according to individual needs and changes of mood/energy.
• Promote a safe, inclusive, supportive outdoor classroom where pupils feel empowered, valued and able to explore the environment.
• Collaborate with indoor class teams, SEND/therapy staff and teaching staff to integrate outdoor learning with wider learning programmes and personalise support.
• Encourage responsibility, confidence and environmental awareness in young people: from growing plants to creative outdoor art, physical activity to sensory exploration.

What We’re Looking For

• Experience (or a commitment to gain experience) working with children and young people with SEND (Autism, social communication needs, complex learning needs) in outdoor or non‑traditional learning settings.
• Enthusiastic about outdoor education, nature‑based learning and a belief in the power of the outdoors to enhance engagement, wellbeing and independence.
• Ability to adapt your approach day‑to‑day depending on pupils’ mood, needs and sensory profiles; sensitivity to non‑verbal communication, able to read body‑language and respond appropriately.
• Patience, resilience and flexibility — ready to work both indoors and outdoors, in variable weather and changing learning scenarios.
• A team‑player who works collaboratively with class teams, therapists and outdoor learning staff, but also carries initiative and supports pupils confidently.
• A belief that every young person deserves the chance to explore, grow and become independent, and that outdoor learning is a vital component of that journey.

Why Apply?

Join a specialist provision with a strong commitment to personalised, inclusive education and a rich outdoor learning programme.

Flexible work patterns (part‑time or full‑time) offering better work/life balance and variety of role.

Long‑term opportunities available in a setting where you can make a genuine difference in young people’s lives.

Be part of a vibrant team where outdoor learning is valued and you can broaden your skills in horticulture, forest‑school, therapeutic and SEND support.

If you are passionate about supporting young people with special educational needs, believe in the power of outdoor learning and want a rewarding role where you can make a real difference — we’d love to hear from you. Apply now with Axcis Education for this SEND Outdoor Learning Support Assistant role.

Contact

Laura Dowson
Telephone: [phone] l Ext: 2014

Disclaimer

View the disclaimer

Axcis is an equal opportunities employer and as such we do not discriminate based on age, gender, disability, race or any other equal opportunities criteria.
The company is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. As such, you will be required to provide an up to date DBS, or be prepared to allow Axcis to process one on your behalf, in addition to other mandatory compliance checks in line with the DfE guidelines (for details please see our website).
If the position you are applying for involves working with children or vulnerable adults, this post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974.
Axcis Education is an employment agency offering temporary supply work for daily, short‑term and long‑term assignments in addition to permanent positions.
You must be suitably qualified for the position advertised and be prepared to attend a face to face interview with Axcis to demonstrate your suitability for this role.
Salary / Pay Rate will be dependent on your skills and experience.