Outdoor Learning Leader

Job Ref
OLL0326 (45)
Location
Longdendale Environmental Centre
Function
Engagement
Salary
£30,024 to £31,537 pro rata per annum
Status
Part Time
Type
Fixed Term Contract
Hours
22 hours 15 minutes per week
Expiry Date
07/04/2026

More details

About the Role
Are you passionate about connecting people with the outdoors and inspiring the next generation to care for the natural environment? We’re looking for an enthusiastic and organised individual to join our team at Longdendale Environmental Centre.
This is a varied, hands-on role supporting the delivery of outdoor learning and field studies programmes, as well as engaging young people through volunteering and targeted projects. You’ll play a key part in creating meaningful experiences for diverse audiences while helping to keep the Centre running smoothly day to day. This is a fantastic opportunity to develop your skills in environmental education, volunteer coordination, and project delivery while making a real difference in a unique and inspiring setting.

About You
You’ll be a proactive and flexible team player with a genuine enthusiasm for outdoor learning and youth engagement. You’ll enjoy working with a wide range of people and be confident balancing practical delivery with administrative responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities
• Support the delivery and development of outdoor learning and field studies programmes, ensuring activities align with our Diverse Audience and Volunteer Plans.
• Assist with the recruitment, coordination, and development of Youth Engagement Volunteers.
• Help manage bookings, administration, and evaluation processes, contributing to the smooth day-to-day operation of the Centre.
• Provide support to volunteers and casual staff, fostering a positive and inclusive team environment.
• Prepare teaching materials, equipment, and resources for activities, ensuring all areas are safe, well-maintained, and welcoming for visitors.
• Contribute to the delivery of targeted youth projects (e.g. Ambassador Schools, Junior Rangers), including session delivery, promotion, participant liaison, and record keeping.

Essential Skills & Experience
• A relevant qualification in Outdoor Learning, or education (e.g. Certificate in Outdoor Learning, PGCE, RPIOL, Forest School, or Bushcraft qualification).
• Proven knowledge and experience of delivering and coordinating outdoor learning programmes for a range of audiences.
• Experience working with young people, families, and communities, including those from diverse backgrounds.
• Strong organisational skills, with experience in information management, evaluation, and report writing.
• Experience of working with and supervising volunteers.

Desirable Skills & Experience
• Experience managing volunteers in outdoor settings (e.g. practical conservation or outreach activities).
• Mentoring and coaching skills, with the ability to support and develop others.
• Experience of working in partnership and delivering funded projects.
• Knowledge of National Parks and associated environmental or community issues.
• A valid First Aid certificate.

Further Information
This is a fixed term role until 31 July 2029 with the potential for further funding to be secured. The hours of the post are 22 hours 15 minutes per week, worked Monday to Friday, the actual days required will be agreed in advance and be dependant on school bookings. Please see the attached job description and person specification for further information. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Naomi Ringrose on Naomi.Ringrose@peakdistrict.gov.uk. No agencies at this time please.

Benefits
We offer a range of staff benefits including flexi-time, a high-quality defined benefit pension scheme, 26-31 days holiday (plus bank holidays) with the option to purchase more, volunteering leave and free parking at most of our offices. Please check out our Total Reward Brochure to see what else we offer.

Our Values
• Care – We care for the Peak District National Park, the people we work with and all those we serve. It’s at the heart of everything we do.
• Enjoy – We take pride in what we do and feel good about our contribution.
• Pioneer – We were born of pioneers. We will continue to explore opportunities to inspire future generations.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
The Peak District National Park Authority is committed to equal opportunities. We aspire to have a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to apply and join us.

We are a “Disability Confident” employer and have committed to offering an interview to a proportionate number of applicants who declare a disability, if they meet the minimum criteria for the job.

If you are unable to apply on line and require a word version of the application form please contact HR@peakdistrict.gov.uk

Background image showing silhouette of a mountain biker, hiker and dog heading down a Peak District gritstone path