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 outcomesEssential 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 practiceAbout 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 resourcesThe 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 interviewVeritas 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
Salary description
£140.00 - £180.00 per day