School jobs in Gillingham

Are you passionate about outdoor learning and the transformative power of nature for children and young people?

At Coombe House School, we are seeking an enthusiastic and committed Outdoor Learning and Forest School Co-ordinator to join our dedicated team. This is a unique opportunity to inspire curiosity, build confidence and support pupils’ emotional wellbeing through meaningful outdoor experiences.

About the role

Working under the guidance of the Assistant Head Teacher, you will lead the planning and delivery of high-quality outdoor learning provision across the school. You will create engaging, inclusive and therapeutic outdoor experiences that support pupils’ educational, social and emotional development. You will play a key role in embedding Forest School principles within our curriculum -fostering independence, resilience and environmental awareness within our young people.

This is a highly practical role, working predominantly outdoors in a beautiful 55-acre setting, delivering activities such as bushcraft, outdoor cooking, shelter building and environmental projects.

Key responsibilities

• Plan, deliver and evaluate high-quality outdoor learning and Forest School sessions
• Create engaging programmes that support EHCP outcomes including communication, independence and emotional regulation
• Adapt activities to meet a wide range of individual learning needs
• Promote safe risk-taking, resilience and positive engagement
• Use trauma-informed and relational approaches to support behaviour and wellbeing
• Ensure health and safety through robust risk assessments and safe use of tools and equipment
• Maintain and manage outdoor learning resources and environments
• Work collaboratively with teaching staff, therapists and support teams
• Support and guide colleagues to deliver high-quality outdoor learning experiences
• Promote environmental responsibility and sustainability across the school

About you

We are looking for someone who:

• Holds a Level 3 Forest School qualification (or equivalent) or is willing to work towards it
• Has experience working with children with SEND, particularly SEMH, ASC or complex needs
• Understands trauma-informed and therapeutic approaches to supporting behaviour
• Has strong knowledge of outdoor learning, safety and environmental education
• Is confident working both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Is creative, adaptable and passionate about inclusive learning
• Has excellent communication skills and can relate well to pupils and colleagues
• Demonstrates resilience, compassion and a commitment to making a difference
• Has a genuine love of the outdoors and working in all-weather conditions

Our school

Coombe House School is an independent special school for pupils aged 5–19 with SEMH, ASC, and associate needs, all with EHCPs. We take a therapeutic, relationship-based approach where behaviour is understood as communication.

We believe passionately in supporting and nurturing our pupils as well as aspiring to provide them with outstanding and creative learning opportunities. At Coombe House, our work is underpinned by our core values of kindness, belonging and ambition. You’ll be part of a supportive, forward-thinking team committed to helping every young person succeed - academically, socially and emotionally.

Coombe House School is located at the eastern edge of Shaftesbury. The school enjoys a secluded setting within its grounds (55 acres). What Coombe House School can offer you:

· Royal London Pension Scheme (10% employers’ contribution).

· Competitive salary (£28,223 – £31,173 actual; FTE £32,061 – £35,412).

· Continuous professional development and training.

· Health Care Plan after probation period - claim back costs towards dental check-ups, eye tests, prescription charges and therapies.

· Access to a free, confidential employee assistance programme.

· A workplace set in beautiful surroundings.

· Use of leisure facilities (gym and swimming pool) at specific times.

· Highly supportive leadership team, colleagues and working alongside a multi-disciplinary team of other SEN Specialists.

· The opportunity to play an integral part at the next phase of the schools’ unique journey.

Working hours: 35 hours per week, term time only. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 08:30 – 16:00, Wednesday 08.30 - 16:30 and Friday 08.30 - 15:30.

Actual salary: starting at £28,223 (FTE £32,061)

Deadline for applications: 20 July 2026 (Midnight)

We will not accept speculative CVs through agencies for this appointment. Direct applications only. Please see the job description & person specification for further information. as well as visiting the school’s website - https://coombehouseschool.org.uk

We are committed to safeguarding and expect everyone who works in our school (and visitors to our school) to share this commitment. We take all safeguarding and welfare concerns seriously and encourage our pupils to talk to us about any worries they may have. We will always act in the best interests of the child. The successful applicant must be willing to undergo child protection screening, including checks with past employers and an enhanced DBS.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: From £28,223.00 per year

Benefits:

• Canteen
• Company events
• Company pension
• Free parking
• Health & wellbeing programme
• On-site gym
• On-site parking
• Sick pay

Work Location: In person