Forest School Teacher | Practitioner | AP | Burnley

Are you passionate about outdoor education and empowering young people? Join our dedicated team as a Forest School Teacher/Practitioner at our Alternative Provision (AP) in Burnley! We're seeking inspiring individuals, whether qualified or with strong experience, to help our students thrive in a unique outdoor learning environment.

The Role: Forest School Teacher / Practitioner

You will lead and develop our Forest School program, providing engaging, learner-led outdoor experiences that support the social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development of our students. This role is about creating a safe, inspiring, and nurturing space for young people to connect with nature, build essential life skills, and achieve their personal best.

Key Responsibilities:

• Plan and deliver engaging Forest School sessions for students within our Alternative Provision.
• Facilitate child-led learning and exploration in a natural environment.
• Assess and manage risks to ensure a safe learning space for all.
• Foster positive relationships with students, promoting self-esteem and resilience.
• Observe and record student progress, contributing to individual learning plans.
• Maintain the Forest School site and equipment to high standards.
• Collaborate with other educators and support staff within the AP.
• Adapt activities to meet the diverse needs of students (e.g., SEND, SEMH).

Who We're Looking For:

We welcome applications from passionate individuals at various stages of their Forest School journey.

Unqualified / Experienced Forest School Practitioner:

• Demonstrable experience working with children or young people in an outdoor, educational, or youth work setting.
• A strong understanding and passion for the Forest School ethos and principles.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to connect with young people who may have complex needs.
• Resilience, patience, and a calm approach to challenging behaviours.
• Practical skills relevant to outdoor education (e.g., basic tool use, fire lighting).
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
• Willingness to undertake Forest School Leader training (Level 3 or equivalent) within an agreed timeframe.

Qualified Forest School Teacher / Leader:

• Minimum Level 3 Forest School Leader qualification (or equivalent).
• Proven experience planning and delivering Forest School programs, ideally within an Alternative Provision or SEND setting.
• Strong understanding of safeguarding and risk management in an outdoor environment.
• Ability to differentiate activities effectively for diverse learning needs (e.g., SEND, SEMH, challenging behaviour).
• Excellent behaviour management skills with a positive, nurturing approach.
• Relevant teaching qualification is desirable but not essential.

Why Join Us in Burnley?

• Make a genuine difference: Empower young people to discover their potential in a unique setting.
• Supportive environment: Work within a dedicated team passionate about alternative education.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for ongoing training and growth in outdoor education.
• Competitive Salary: Commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Impactful Role: Lead an exciting program that directly benefits student well-being and learning.
• Located in Burnley: Easy access and a local community focus.

Apply Now!

If you are a passionate and dedicated individual ready to inspire young minds through the power of nature, we encourage you to apply!

Please submit your CV and a compelling Cover Letter outlining your experience, your philosophy on Forest School, and why you are the ideal candidate for this role at our Burnley Alternative Provision.

Email Applications to: rachael.boaler@twrecruitment.com Application Deadline: ASAP.

Please note: This position is subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.