Outdoor Education Teacher / Instructor

Location: Barnoldswick / East Lancashire (BB11 / Pendle area)

Contract Type: Full-Time, Temp-to-Perm

Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM (Term Time Only)

An innovative Alternative Provision (AP) serving pupils across Barnoldswick, Burnley, and the BB11 corridor is seeking an Outdoor Education Teacher or Outdoor Learning Instructor. This is a full-time, temp-to-perm role designed for someone who thrives outside traditional classroom walls and believes in the restorative power of nature for young people.

You will work directly with vulnerable pupils who have Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, neurodivergent profiles (ASC/ADHD), or adverse childhood experiences. Your classroom is the outdoors: leading practical, hands-on learning, practical woodland/bushcraft skills, team building, environmental projects, and experiential lessons in all weather conditions.

Both Qualified Teachers (QTS/QTLS) and Unqualified Teachers / Experienced Outdoor Leaders with genuine passion and strong de-escalation skills are encouraged to apply.

• Plan and deliver creative, outdoor-focused learning experiences-ranging from practical life skills and environmental science to bushcraft, nature-based art, and physical team challenges.

• Build trust and positive, therapeutic working relationships with vulnerable children who often struggle in mainstream education environments.

• Use restorative approaches, clear boundaries, and de-escalation strategies to manage dysregulated behaviors calmly and effectively.

• Supervise and run activities in diverse weather conditions, maintaining robust health and safety and risk assessments at all times.

• Track individual student engagement, emotional growth, and practical skill milestones, reporting progress back to the leadership team.

• Qualifications: QTS, QTLS, or Unqualified Teachers with a background in Outdoor Learning, Forest School, Youth Work, Sports Coaching, or Alternative Provision.

• Resilience & Outdoors Mindset: Genuine love for outdoor activities and practical learning-you must be comfortable working outside through all seasons.

• SEMH & AP Experience: Prior experience supporting vulnerable young people with SEMH, trauma, or complex behavioural needs.

• Communication & De-escalation: Natural rapport-builder with a calm, trauma-informed approach (Team-Teach or equivalent positive handling training is advantageous).

• Compliance: Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or readiness to complete one immediately) and verifiable employment references.

• Temp-to-Perm Pathway: Secure immediate consistent work with a clear route to a permanent school contract.

• Alternative to the Traditional Desk: High-impact, active outdoor teaching without endless paperwork and rigid exam-driven timetables.

• Sociable School Hours: Monday to Friday, term-time only, giving you weekends and school holidays off.

• Meaningful Impact: Help young people rebuild confidence, self-worth, and life skills in an environment where they can succeed.

Click Apply Now with an updated CV highlighting your outdoor, pastoral, or teaching experience. Informal visits and interviews are taking place immediately.