Job Title: Forest School Leader (Level 3)
Location: SEMH School, Orpington
Start Date: May 2026
Contract Type: Full-time (term-time) / Permanent or Fixed Term (depending on school need)
About the Role
We are seeking a qualified and experienced Level 3 Forest School Leader to join a specialist SEMH school in Orpington from May 2026. This is a unique and rewarding opportunity to play a vital role in supporting pupils with social, emotional, and mental health needs through structured and therapeutic outdoor learning.
The successful candidate will be responsible for planning, leading, and delivering high-quality Forest School sessions for small groups of pupils, using outdoor education to promote emotional regulation, resilience, confidence, and positive behaviour.
Key Responsibilities
*Plan, deliver, and evaluate engaging Forest School sessions in line with Forest School principles
*Lead outdoor learning activities for small groups of SEMH pupils
*Create a safe, inclusive, and nurturing outdoor learning environment
*Adapt activities to meet individual pupil needs and EHCP targets
*Manage risk assessments, safeguarding, and health & safety procedures
*Work collaboratively with teachers, support staff, and pastoral teams
*Track pupil progress and contribute to behaviour and wellbeing outcomes
Essential Requirements
*Level 3 Forest School Leader qualification (essential)
*Proven experience delivering Forest School or outdoor learning programmes
*Experience working with children or young people with SEMH needs
*Strong behaviour management and de-escalation skills
*Confident leading sessions independently and managing small groups
*Excellent communication, organisation, and planning skills
*Commitment to safeguarding and inclusive practice
About the School
The school is a specialist SEMH provision with a strong focus on therapeutic approaches, emotional wellbeing, and personalised learning. Outdoor education plays a key role in supporting pupils’ development, and the Forest School provision is highly valued within the school community.
What We Offer
*A supportive and experienced SEN leadership team
*Small group sizes and a therapeutic working environment
*Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on pupil wellbeing
*Ongoing professional development and SEN-focused training
*Excellent outdoor facilities and resources
The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check.
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS FOR VERITAS EDUCATION
*All applications are subject to an Enhanced DBS Disclosure, professional reference checks, Overseas Police Clearances (if applicable) in line with our stringent safeguarding policy
*Your CV must cover the last 10 years of employment history where possible and all employment breaks must be explained
*You must have legal right to work in the UK
*You must be willing to attend a registration interview
Veritas Education work with a variety of schools covering a wide geographical area. We deal with teaching placements at Primary, Secondary and college level as well as support staff positions also within these.
Disclaimer
’Nothing within the above advert was in any way designed or intended to discriminate on the grounds of age, gender, race, colour, religion, disability or sexual orientation. Veritas Education is an Equal opportunities employer and is proud in the knowledge that all placements are made on merit and suitability. We accept applications from all sections of the community.’