Wilder Learning Manager

Sussex Wildlife Trust; Brighton; Hybrid; GBP 32,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid and Flexible Working

25 Days Annual Leave

Pension Contributions

Life Assurance

Health Cash Plan

Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

Cycle to Work Scheme

Volunteering Days

Café Discount

Job summary

Sussex Wildlife Trust is seeking a Wilder Learning Manager to lead a small, driven team delivering outdoor learning and engagement programmes across Sussex. You will oversee high-quality accredited training, INSETs, school sessions and guidance to help schools improve grounds for nature and outdoor learning.

The role emphasizes leadership, collaboration, and innovation with a focus on inclusive practice and safeguarding.

Qualifications

• Leadership and people management experience.
• Ability to manage projects and deliver programs.
• Collaborative working with partners and schools.

Responsibilities

• Lead a small, passionate team delivering outdoor learning and engagement programmes across Sussex.
• Oversee development of accredited training, INSETs, school sessions and advisory support for schools.
• Foster a positive, inclusive culture and drive continuous improvement and professional development.

Job description

To deliver our new strategic plan – Our Wild Sussex – we need people with bold and innovative ideas to help us to achieve our ambitions for local wildlife and wild places.

We are committed to restoring and protecting at least 30% of Sussex land and sea for nature, inspiring one in four people to take meaningful action for wildlife, building a stronger more inclusive and diverse organisation and becoming a net zero and climate resilient organisation.

We are looking for the best and most talented people to join our team and help us deliver this exciting and ambitious strategy. We are keen to hear from you even if you don't have all the skills and experience outlined in the Job Description but have the potential to grow into a role.

So, if you are someone who is determined to see a Sussex rich in wildlife and you have drive, energy and commitment to our values of Innovation, Passion, Collaboration and Inclusion why not apply now to join our great team, working together to deliver Our Wild Sussex.

We particularly welcome applications from people currently underrepresented in the conservation sector, including disabled people, people from Black, Asian and other ethnically diverse backgrounds, people from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, non-graduates, and people from geographically diverse communities. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.

The Role

As Wilder Learning Manager, you’ll lead a small, passionate team delivering inspiring outdoor learning and engagement programmes that connect schools, educators and young people with nature across Sussex. You’ll oversee the delivery and ongoing development of high quality accredited training, INSETs, school sessions and advice that supports schools to improve their grounds for nature and outdoor learning.

You’ll be an enthusiastic and confident leader, able to step into delivery when needed, and excited by innovation, collaboration and partnership working. Bringing experience of managing people, you’ll foster a positive, supportive and inclusive culture, encouraging creativity, continuous improvement and professional development.

This varied role combines leadership, project management and hands on involvement, playing a key part in ensuring our learning offer inspires and empowers educators and young people to connect with, care for and benefit from nature across Sussex’s land and marine environments.

A valid drivers licence is required for this role. This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS check.

The Person

You will be a professional, values-led leader who enjoys supporting others to do their best work. You’ll bring a positive, practical and reflective approach; enabling you to navigate complexity, manage competing demands and support decision making.

You’ll be comfortable building trust, having honest conversations, and creating space for others to grow; balancing encouragement with clear expectations. You’ll be organised and reflective, able to manage your time and priorities while remaining approachable and supportive.

You’ll share Sussex Wildlife Trust’s commitment to inclusion and safeguarding, and reflect our values in your practice. You’ll demonstrate a personal passion for wildlife, outdoor learning and the benefits nature connection for young people in Sussex, which will underpin everything you do.

• Hybrid and Flexible Working– Supporting healthy work-life balance through flexible working arrangements where role requirements operationally allow.
• 25 Days Annual Leave – Plus bank holidays, rising to 27 days after 5 years' service; entitlement pro rata part-time.
• Pension Contributions – With an optional salary sacrifice scheme to help maximise your retirement savings.
• Life Assurance -Pension Scheme members receive 2x salary cover; non-members receive 1x salary cover.
• Health Cash Plan – helping towards the cost of everyday healthcare expenses.
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) – Providing confidential support, advice and wellbeing resources.
• Cycle to Work Scheme – Helping you save money while supporting a healthier and more sustainable commute.
• Volunteering Days – Dedicated two days paid to support causes and communities that matter to you.
• Café Discount – Enjoy discounted food and drinks at our Rye Harbour Discovery Centre cafe

For more detailed information see the What we offer page in the Recruitment Pack.

We will be reviewing applications on a rolling basis and may close the vacancy early so please get you application in as soon as possible.

As Wilder Learning Manager, you’ll lead a small, passionate team delivering inspiring outdoor learning and engagement programmes that connect schools, educators and young people with nature across Sussex.