Job Description

Join Acorn Wood - An Inspiring All Through Independent School

Located in the heart of the rural farming hamlet of Coton in North Shropshire, Acorn Wood is a small, nurturing Independent Day School dedicated to providing exceptional education for children aged 5 to 16 years.

We operate under Section 98 of the Education and Skills Act 2008, creating an inclusive, supportive environment where children flourish through non-traditional learning approaches. Our commitment to personalised education and a close-knit community ethos makes Acorn Wood a uniquely rewarding place to work.

Outdoor Education Lead

About the Role

Acorn Wood is seeking a passionate and skilled Outdoor Education Lead to take charge of our outdoor education provision.

This is a fantastic opportunity to lead, coordinate, plan, and deliver a dynamic and engaging outdoor education programme that aligns with AALA (Adventure Activities Licensing Authority) standards.

As a school, we are privileged to offer an exceptional natural environment for outdoor learning and adventure.

With unlimited access to Alderford Lake, our own private woodland overlooking the iconic Wrekin, and the rolling beauty of the North Shropshire countryside on our doorstep, we provide rich and varied landscapes for exploration, discovery, and connection with the natural world.

Our proximity to the Welsh border also opens up easy access to a wide range of outdoor activities and adventures, from mountain hikes to river studies.

This role offers a unique opportunity for a passionate Outdoor Education Lead to design and deliver a dynamic, nature-based curriculum that inspires resilience, confidence, curiosity, and a deep respect for the world around us.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and develop the outdoor education curriculum, ensuring it is safe, inspiring, and meets all regulatory standards.

Plan, coordinate, and deliver a broad range of outdoor activities including paddle boarding, kayaking, canoeing, climbing, and more.

Maintain and uphold AALA standards for all adventurous activities.

Manage equipment and resources to ensure safety and availability.

Inspire and motivate children to engage enthusiastically with outdoor learning.

Work collaboratively with colleagues to integrate outdoor education into the wider school experience.

Work closely with TAO, our external and highly regarded partner, to receive technical support, regular training, outdoor community expertise, and quality assurance oversight.

Required Qualifications and Experience

Relevant qualifications in outdoor activities such as paddle boarding, kayaking, canoeing, climbing, and lifeguard certification.

Proven experience delivering outdoor education in a school or similar setting.

Strong understanding of AALA standards and compliance requirements

Ideal Candidate Qualities

Enthusiastic and passionate about outdoor learning and child development.

Excellent leadership and organisational skills.

Ability to engage and inspire children of varying ages and abilities.

Committed to the ethos of personalised, non-traditional learning.

Professional, safety-conscious, and adaptable.

Ability to lead small groups of up to 6 children.

Recognition and understanding of the barriers children with complex needs can face and an understanding of behaviour as a means of communication and unmet need.

Experience working with children with SEMH and Cognition and Learning needs through the outdoor.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 28,000.00-32,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Discounted or free food On-site parking
Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 08/08/2025
Expected start date: 15/09/2025