Job Description

Outdoor SEND Worker - ROAR TRAILS

Contract Type:

Term-time (40 weeks paid evenly over 12 months, holiday pay included)

Start Date:

27th August 2025

Location:

Godalming based

ROAR TRAILS' Alternative Learning Programme offers young people a unique and enriching educational experience that goes beyond the traditional classroom. Through outdoor adventures, experiential learning and personalised support, we help learners grow in confidence, resilience and skills.

As an

Outdoor SEND Worker

, you will play a vital role in inspiring, educating and empowering young people, particularly those with additional needs, in a natural, inclusive and supportive environment. This is a highly rewarding role for those who are passionate about the outdoors and committed to making a positive difference in the lives of young people.

ROAR TRAILS runs four types of programmes to meet the different needs of the young people we support:

Intervention Programmes:

Short-term placements focused on stabilising behaviour, building emotional regulation and reconnecting young people with learning in a supportive, outdoor setting.

Maintaining Programmes:

Regular sessions designed to support ongoing attendance, prevent exclusion, and help learners stay positively engaged with education.

Long-Term Programmes:

Extended alternative provision placements where outdoor learning becomes the main site of education for young people who are not in education.

Mentoring Programmes:

One-to-one or small group support focused on confidence, resilience and personal growth, tailored to each young person's specific needs.
These programme types shape the kind of activities you will deliver and the outcomes you will support. As an Outdoor SEND Worker, you will play a key role in bringing these programmes to life and adapting them to suit the learners you are working with.

As an Outdoor SEND Worker, you will:

Support young people with additional needs in outdoor settings. Create a safe and positive space for learning and personal development. Deliver activities that promote learning, wellbeing and social skills. Be an active and supportive member of the team.

Main Responsibilities:

Lead safe and enjoyable outdoor sessions by delivering half-termly activity programmes with clear learning goals. Help young people work towards their AQA awards and EHCP outcomes by following our structured program plans. Monitor and assess progress to ensure learning activities are purposeful and well-structured. Build supportive, positive relationships with young people, fostering an inclusive and nurturing learning environment. Keep accurate records of attendance using the Ed:Gen system. Update reporting software daily, which supports EHCP tracking and termly review writing. Work closely with team members to share ideas and coordinate plans. Communicate effectively with parents, carers and other professionals. Carry out daily safety checks on woodland and offsite environments. Make sure equipment is safe, clean and ready to use.

Essential Requirements:

Enhanced DBS certificate in place by the start date (or willingness to obtain one). Experience supporting young people, particularly those with SEND or learning challenges. Strong skills in delivering engaging outdoor activities. Ability to work outdoors year-round in all weather conditions. Valid driving licence, business insurance, and access to a suitable vehicle to transport young people. Access to a laptop or computer for work purposes. Strong literacy skills and an understanding of up to date SEND terminology. Ability to work effectively as part of a team, with a positive, adaptable and team-focused attitude.

Training and Qualifications:

Essential (or Willingness to complete during induction):

Safeguarding training Food hygiene training Autism awareness training Trauma-informed practice training
Desirable / Beneficial Qualifications:

Outdoor First Aid (16-hour course) Level 2 qualification related to working with SEND young people Forest School Practitioner or Bushcraft (IOL-accredited) Sports/activity coaching qualifications such as: MIAS (Mountain Bike Instructor Award Scheme) BEL / LLA (Basic Expedition Leader / Lowland Leader Award) Paddle UK qualifications CWI (Climbing Wall Instructor) Multisport coaching (e.g. racket or ball sports)

The Person:

We're looking for someone who is:

Passionate about outdoor education and committed to inspiring young people. Confident, fun and engaging, with a positive and proactive attitude. Empathetic, patient and adaptable to changing programme needs or schedules. Strong in communication and leadership, with the ability to motivate others. Skilled in supporting high-needs young people in a clear, structured and compassionate manner.

The Role:

Full-time (5 days per week) or part-time (2-4 days per week) roles available. Term-Time contract (40 weeks paid over 52 weeks) Standard hours: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM (with a 20 minute unpaid lunch). Reports to the Programme Leadership Team. Staff workshops and meetings will take place until 5:00 PM as part of ongoing training and development.

Benefits:

5 paid training days per year Mileage reimbursement in line with government-approved rates Company uniform provided Free on-site parking Employee Assistance Programme (wellbeing support) Discounts with outdoor retailers

Application Process:

Telephone interview In-person interview

Closing Statement:

If you are passionate about outdoor education and want to make a genuine difference in the lives of young people, we warmly encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity within ROAR TRAILS' Alternative Learning Programme. Join a team that values creativity, compassion and connection, and help shape positive outcomes for young people through meaningful outdoor experiences.

Child Protection Statement:

ROAR TRAILS is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff and volunteers are expected to share this commitment.

This post is subject to an Enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references. Safeguarding and child protection training will be provided. Any concerns must be reported immediately to the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) or senior management.

Job Type: Fixed term contract
Contract length: 40 weeks

Pay: 25,114.12 per year

Benefits:

Additional leave Company events Employee discount Employee mentoring programme Free parking On-site parking
Schedule:

8 hour shift Monday to Friday No weekends
Application question(s):

Do you have or are willing to obtain valid business insurance for your vehicle? Experience of working with young people with Special Educational Needs, Social, Emotional or Mental Health needs or other capacity (youth work, counselling or similar) Do you have experience supporting or delivery outdoor activities to young people?
Experience:

Working with people with autism: 1 year (preferred)
Licence/Certification:

Driving Licence (required)
Work authorisation:

United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 23/07/2025
Reference ID: Outdoor SEND Worker - ROAR TRAILS
Expected start date: 27/08/2025