Job Introduction
Alternative Curriculum Centre Assistant
Samuel Cody School
Job Type: Full Time
Work Location: Runways End Activity Centre / Samuel Cody School Campus Ballantyne Road, Farnborough, GU11 8SN
Exciting Opportunity: Forest School Leader at Samuel Cody School
Are you passionate about working with students who find traditional schooling challenging? Do you want to be part of an exciting new alternative curriculum that supports students’ growth and engagement with education? Samuel Cody School is seeking two enthusiastic, experienced Forest School Leaders to join our team and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our innovative alternative curriculum.
Working alongside the Alternative Curriculum Lead, you will help design and launch a transformative Forest School programme aimed at re-engaging students who struggle with conventional education. As a Forest School Leader, you will work closely with Senior Leaders and a dedicated team to create dynamic, hands-on learning experiences that foster confidence, self-discovery, and resilience in our students.
Your Role:
- Lead the development, delivery and assessment of Forest School sessions tailored to students, particularly those with Special Educational Needs (SEN), emotional, and behavioural difficulties.
- Take on both a leadership and hands-on role, supporting the smooth daily running of the Forest School while delivering high-quality sessions.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues, outside agencies and parents to continuously improve our Forest School programmes, supporting students in reconnecting with education in a nurturing, creative environment.
- Follow the principles set by the Forest School Association and adhere to all Samuel Cody School policies and procedures.
What we are looking for:
- A passionate, creative Forest School Leader with a proven track record of delivering impactful outdoor learning programmes.
- Experience working with vulnerable students and those with additional needs.
- Strong leadership skills to manage both the logistics of the Forest School and the delivery of high-quality, tailored sessions.
- An ability to inspire students to embrace the outdoors and approach learning with curiosity and confidence.
Why Join Us? This is a unique opportunity to be at the heart of an exciting new project, where your expertise will directly impact the lives of students and the future of our alternative curriculum. As part of a collaborative and supportive team, you will help students build the skills they need to thrive in education and beyond.
If you're ready to take part in and help shape a transformative programme and make a lasting impact, we would love to hear from you!
Requirements
Essential
- Level 3 Forest School leader qualification or working towards
- Experience of leading a range of Forest School and outdoor learning sessions
- Have a suitable vehicle and be able to travel to and work in both the activity centre and main school campus if required.
- Excellent organisational skills, administration and leadership experience, attention to detail and the ability to demonstrate initiative.
- Enhanced DBS
- Food hygiene level 2
- Child protection training
- Paediatric and Outdoor Forest School first aid
- Previous experience of working with children and young people including those with SEN and behavioural and emotional difficulties
- Experience working in a team outdoors throughout the changing seasons
- Computer literate with some experience in using Microsoft Word, Excel and Google Docs.
Applications will be reviewed as they are received and interviewed if suitable. We reserve the right to close the vacancy at any time. Applicants are required to fill in an application form Please send completed application forms to recruitment@samuelcody.hants.sch.uk
Safer Recruitment
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We will ensure that all our recruitment and selection practices reflect this commitment. All successful candidates will be subject to Disclosure and Barring Service checks along with other relevant employment checks.