Specialist Teaching and Learning Assistant (Forest School and Horticulture )

Salary details: £ - £

PLEASE DO NOT APPLY USING THE DERBYSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL WEBSITE, PLEASE SEE DETAILS BELOW.

Thank you for your interest in this post. We are looking to appoint a permanent Specialist Teaching and Learning Assistant - Forest School and Horticulture  within our Alternative Curriculum Centre for Extended Student Support (ACCESS) department. 

This rewarding role involves implementing agreed learning programmes on both a one-to-one and small group basis within our ACCESS inclusion provision, particularly within the garden, outdoor learning and Forest School areas. The successful candidate will support students to overcome barriers to learning by understanding SEND and behavioural needs and recognising the positive impact that learning in a natural environment can have on student wellbeing, engagement and achievement. 

The successful candidate will have experience of delivering Forest School, horticultural, gardening, conservation or outdoor learning programmes for young people and will have a genuine passion for outdoor learning in all weathers. Alongside supporting students within our garden and outdoor learning provision, the role will also involve providing learning and pastoral support within the indoor ACCESS provision,  

The Successful candidate will have:

• Experience of working with young people in a Forest School, horticultural, outdoor education or similar setting.
• GCSE English and Maths at Grade 4 (C) or above, or equivalent qualifications.
• The ability to build positive support for students with  a range of SEND and behavioural needs.
• A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. 

What we offer : 

•  LGPS Pension Scheme ( Employer contribution  20.80%) 
• CPD opportunities 
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme  who  offer a range of wellbeing and advice services 
• Free Parking 
• Staff Social events and activities   

We know that to provide the very best education, we must recruit, retain and invest in exceptional staff. Staff wellbeing is a genuine priority and is closely linked to our high levels of retention. We are proud that Ofsted’s May 2025 inspection recognised the positive culture we have built:

“Staff are proud to work at the school. They appreciate leaders’ consideration of their work-life balance. They feel well led and managed” 

HOW TO APPLY

Please read the  Recruitment Pack  for further details.  If you feel you have the skills detailed in the Person Specification and the role appeals to you please apply via the  `Apply now` button on My New Term. https://mynewterm.com/jobs/112989/EDV-2026-BSASFC-23529 

Early applications are encouraged as we reserve the right to close this advert at any time.

Provisional Interview Date: 16 October 2026

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Due to this post having access to children and/or vulnerable adults, the successful candidate will be required to undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service check. The possession of a criminal record will not necessarily prevent an applicant from obtaining this post, as all cases are judged individually according to the nature of the role and information provided. Click here to see our policy on criminal background checks.