HLTA Lead Forest School​/Outdoor Ed - Manor Abbey School

HLTA Lead for Forest School / Outdoor Education

Manor Abbey School is a dedicated provision for Key Stage 3 and 4 pupils with an EHCP for Social, Emotional and Mental Health Difficulties. The new school opened in Abbey Hulton, Stoke on Trent, in September 2024 with an initial intake of 30 pupils in years 7 and 8 and will grow to a capacity of 70 places over four years.

We are seeking an inspiring and imaginative Qualified Head of Learning Teacher (HLTA) to lead on Forest School and Outdoor Education. The successful candidate will adapt their learning style to make education fun, practical and creative, and must be able to meet the needs of secondary‑aged children who have experienced difficulty accessing mainstream education.

• Set high expectations of academic achievement for all pupils.
• Motivate young people and promote a positive learning environment.
• Plan, sequence and deliver innovative, engaging lessons.
• Provide clear direction and support for teaching assistants.
• Apply trauma‑informed practices and promote positive mental health.
• Manage challenging behaviour effectively.
• Provide subject leadership as directed by the Senior Leadership Team.

• Qualified HLTA with a proven track record of motivating young people.
• Strong experience in outdoor and forest school settings.
• Knowledge of trauma‑informed practice and positive mental health promotion.
• Ability to manage challenging behaviour and maintain high expectations.
• Experience in curriculum design and class or outdoor lesson delivery.
• Demonstrated subject leadership in secondary education.

• Significant SEN allowance.
• Bespoke training for specialist behaviour management interventions.
• Small class sizes and high staffing ratios.
• A state‑of‑the‑art, well‑resourced school.
• Networking through Manor Hall Academy Trust and local SEMH school groups.
• Support for creative and flexible curriculum delivery.
• Minibus and lifeguard training (if eligible) and a supportive staff team.
• Access to comprehensive Employee Assistance Programmes, including tech schemes, cycle‑to‑work schemes, online gym classes, health and wellbeing support, financial advice services, counselling, physiotherapy, and retail discounts.

All prospective candidates must visit the school prior to applying. Guided tours are available individually or in groups. Please contact the School Office at to arrange a visit.

Manor Hall Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare and safety of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

The successful candidate will be appointed subject to Enhanced DBS and pre‑employment checks, including right to work, confirmation of appropriate qualifications and professional references. Shortlisted candidates may undergo an online search as part of the due diligence process.