Assistant Head of Outdoor Education

Assistant Head of Outdoor Education

Full Time, Year Round

Salary: £26,262 (Band 4, Point 15)

Location:

Ratcliffe College

Ratcliffe College is seeking an enthusiastic, organised and proactive Assistant Head of Outdoor Education to support the delivery of an exciting and inclusive outdoor learning programme across the College.

This varied role combines responsibility for Outdoor Education with specialist duties as the College's School Staff Instructor (SSI) for the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) and Assistant Manager of The Duke of Edinburgh's Award programme. The successful candidate will play a key role in developing young people's confidence, resilience, leadership, teamwork and sense of adventure through a wide range of outdoor experiences.

You will work closely with the Head of Outdoor Education to plan and deliver high-quality outdoor learning opportunities, adventurous activities, expeditions, residential visits, CCF training and DofE programmes. This is a practical, hands-on role involving direct work with pupils, activity leadership, equipment management and operational support.

Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting the delivery of the College's Outdoor Education programme across Preparatory and Senior Schools.
• Leading or supporting activities such as mountain biking, hillwalking, camping, navigation, bushcraft, climbing, paddle sports and archery (subject to qualifications and experience).
• Supporting the planning and delivery of DofE training, practice and qualifying expeditions.
• Acting as the College's CCF School Staff Instructor, providing administrative, logistical and operational support to ensure the safe and effective running of the Contingent.
• Managing outdoor education and CCF equipment, stores and records.
• Supporting residential visits, camps, competitions, outreach events, Open Mornings and Summer School activities.
• Promoting the highest standards of safeguarding, health and safety and risk management.

The role includes regular evening work, occasional weekends and support for activities during school holidays.

We are looking for someone with:

• Significant experience in outdoor education, adventurous activities, the Armed Forces, cadet forces or a related field.
• The ability to inspire, lead and motivate young people.
• Strong organisational, administrative and communication skills.
• A sound understanding of safeguarding, health and safety, and risk management.
• A flexible approach to working hours and responsibilities.
• Competence with digital systems and record management.
• A full driving licence and willingness to undertake minibus training.
• A commitment to the values and ethos of Ratcliffe College.

We would particularly welcome applications from candidates with experience as a School Staff Instructor, Cadet Force Adult Volunteer, outdoor instructor or expedition leader, and from those holding relevant qualifications in areas such as:

• Mountain leadership
• Mountain biking instruction/coaching
• Climbing instruction
• Paddle sports leadership
• DofE Expedition Supervisor or Assessor
• Archery instruction
• Outdoor first aid
• Military instructional or range management qualifications

This is an exciting opportunity to help shape and deliver a growing Outdoor Education programme within a thriving independent school community. You will work with motivated pupils and dedicated colleagues while making a significant contribution to the wider life of the College.

For a full job description and person specification, please contact us.