Education Leader – History / Outdoor / Alternative Provision

THE UFTON COURT EDUCATIONAL TRUST

24,000 - 27,000 per year

Ufton Court, Green Lane, Ufton Nervet, Reading, RG7 4HD

Full-time

Education Leader

Job Title

Education Leader – History / Outdoor / Alternative Provision

Location

Ufton Court, Green Lane, Ufton Nervet, Reading, RG7 4HD

Salary

£24,000- £27,000 – depending on experience

Contract

Permanent. Full time.

Holiday

33 days inclusive of bank holidays

Reporting to

Ufton History/ Outdoors/ Nest Manager

About Ufton
At Ufton, we understand that every child carries their own unique experiences, and we
believe in offering a safe, nurturing and transformative educational experience for all.
Our mission is to provide children with the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive in a
compassionate, supportive and inspiring environment, especially recognising the impact
of trauma and adversity on young lives.

At Ufton, you’ll find more than just a job, you’ll find a community, a purpose and the
chance to work in one of the most beautiful settings imaginable.

Nestled in 40 acres of stunning ancient woodland, Ufton is alive with the sound of
children’s laughter and the magic of discovery. Our work is rooted in a belief in the
power of place, using nature to unlock potential, build confidence and transform lives.
Whether you’re supporting children around a campfire, working in the herb garden or
helping with an evening banquet, you’ll be part of something truly special.

Key Responsibilities

You will be responsible for leading groups of children and young people through a
variety of outdoor activities, ranging from historical re-enactments to farm experiences,
nature learning and team-building challenges. Through your expertise, you will deliver
sessions that not only engage and educate but also promote emotional safety and
connection, fostering a sense of belonging and curiosity in all participants.

We are looking for people who have a passion for the outdoors, huge energy and an
empathetic approach to working with diverse groups of children, including those who

Ufton Court Educational Trust is a Registered Charity No. 1116659 | Registered in England & Wales. Company No: 579428
Registered Office: Ufton Court, Green Lane, Ufton Nervet, Reading, RG7 4HD | 0118 983 2099 | enquiries@ufton.org.uk | uftoncourt.org.uk

may have experienced trauma or adversity. You will have excellent communication skills
and will work with care and flexibility, both independently and as part of a supportive
team. Whether it's rain or shine, you’ll bring enthusiasm and warmth to every session
and enjoy a well-deserved slice of cake along the way.

1. Deliver outdoor learning programmes for Ufton ensuring they are accessible and

meet the emotional, social and learning needs of children, particularly those from
disadvantaged or trauma-affected backgrounds.

2. Create a safe and nurturing environment where children feel secure, valued and
supported as they explore, learn and build positive relationships with their peers
and adults.

3. Lead engaging and informative outdoor sessions with sensitivity to the diverse
emotional and developmental needs of participants, using a trauma-informed
approach to ensure all children feel included and understood.

4. Manage risks responsibly, ensuring that all health and safety procedures are

followed, while also being attuned to the emotional and sensory needs of children
in outdoor settings.

5. Maintain high standards of care in managing equipment and facilities, ensuring

that spaces feel welcoming, safe and conducive to learning.

6. Collaborate w ith other Ufton staff and volunteers to support trauma-informed

practices across all learning programmes and events, contributing to an
atmosphere of trust and emotional safety.

7. Adapt sessions to meet the diverse needs of children, including incorporating

sensory tools and activities to help with emotional regulation, creating an
environment where all children can participate and succeed.

8. Engage in ongoing professional development, especially in trauma-informed
practices, to deepen your understanding and enhance your ability to support all
children, including those with additional emotional or developmental needs.

9. Contribute to Ufton’s grow th by supporting its mission and values, and by
promoting inclusive practices that benefit both children and colleagues.

10. Inspire curiosity through site set up. This is an active, outdoor role involving
walking, lifting, and manual handling (e.g. moving equipment and setting up
outdoor activities).

If you’re ready to take on a new challenge, have experience in outdoor
education, a passion for history or nature and want to make a meaningful
impact on the lives of children, we would love to hear from you.

The post holder will also:

• Contribute to the overall achievement of Ufton’s trauma-informed and inclusive

approach to education.

• Participate in team discussions and professional development sessions, bringing a

child-focused lens to all activities.

• Monitor and evaluate the emotional and social impact of activities, providing

feedback and written reports where necessary.

• Represent Ufton with care, professionalism, and an understanding of the diverse

needs of all children and young people.

• Work within an equality, diversity, and inclusion framework, respecting individual

experiences and needs.

• Ensure compliance with GDPR, safeguarding policies, and best practices for health,

safety, and emotional well-being.

Please note that the responsibilities listed are not exhaustive and this job description
may be subject to change as the role evolves over time.

Person Specification

Qualifications and Skills

• A passion for outdoor learning and a solid understanding of the healing and

developmental benefits of nature and outdoor activities, especially for children who
have experienced adversity.

• Understanding of how children’s emotional, physical, and social development is
affected by their experiences, including trauma and a commitment to creating
emotionally safe learning environments.

• Flexibility, empathy and adaptability, with the ability to respond to the emotional and

sensory needs of children in outdoor environments.

• Strong communication skills, with the ability to build trust and positive relationships

with children, families and colleagues.

• Knowledge of the needs of children with additional needs and how to meet these in

an outdoor learning context, with a particular focus on trauma and emotional
regulation.

• A strong commitment to safeguarding and promoting the emotional well-being and

welfare of children.

• A commitment to trauma-informed practices and ongoing personal and professional

development.

• Relevant professional qualifications in one or more of the following areas: Education,

Youth Work, Outdoor Education, History, or Geography

Desired Attributes

• Experience leading engaging outdoor or history sessions that are inclusive and

trauma informed.

• Experience working with children with special educational needs and disabilities,

particularly those with a history of trauma.

• Knowledge of child development, the impact of trauma on emotional and social well-
being, and strategies for supporting children in managing emotional challenges.

• Partial to a homemade flapjack and ability to make a decent cup of tea.

Working with Children

Safeguarding: All staff at Ufton share responsibility for keeping children safe. As such,
you must:

• Follow Ufton’s Safeguarding Policy and safer working practices
• Complete relevant safeguarding training
• Maintain clear professional boundaries
• Report any concerns promptly

This role may involve direct or indirect work with children. A commitment to creating a
safe, inclusive culture across the estate is essential.

Conduct around children: All staff are expected to model Ufton’s values in their
behaviour, treating every child with kindness, respect and fairness as well as challenging
or reporting anything that falls short.

Pre-employment checks: All roles at Ufton are subject to:

• An enhanced DBS check
• At least three references, including your most recent employer
• Clarification of any gaps in employment
• Proof of the right to work in the UK

Any concerns will be followed up in line with our safer recruitment procedures.

Values Alignment

You share our values of agility with consistency, playful and professional, acting today for
tomorrow, and the belief that curiosity leads to excellence.

We are based in a glorious rural location but that does mean you'll need access to your
own transport. Whilst on site you’ll have lunch provided and there is usually a
homemade sweet treat around.

You must have the right to work in the UK.

To apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role
and how you align with Ufton's values to recruitment@ufton.org.uk.

We will only consider applications that provide a covering letter.

Ufton is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably
qualified candidates, especially those from underrepresented communities. All offers of
employment are subject to a satisfactory completed enhanced DBS (The Disclosure and
Baring Service) check and at least three references.