Wilder Learning 'Outdoor Education' Volunteer

To support the Wilder Learning Officer with the efficient running of education events ensuring a high quality and engaging education experience.

Background detail
The Wilder Learning team at Essex Wildlife Trust work with children and young people to help them explore the natural world, learning more about it and developing a deep connection and appreciation with outdoor spaces. Activities range from: leading visiting school groups, Forest School sessions, toddler groups sessions, holiday activities and birthday parties. All of these activities are based outdoors at our wonderful nature reserves.

Role description
- Shadow and support the Wilder Learning Officer (WLO) to deliver activities for children.
- Assist the WLO preparations for sessions including setting up rooms and preparing materials.
- Assist the WLO with running sessions, this will include helping to supervise children, directing them in the activities and ensuring they are safe and happy.
- Always follow the Essex Wildlife Trust Safeguarding and Health and Safety guidance for working with children.
- Work as part of a close-knit team, closely following instructions and guidance.
- Please note that specific sessions are usually aimed at specific age groups, if you prefer to work with a specific age group or on a particular activity, please let us know.

Perks and Benefits
Wilder Learning Volunteers help supervise our education events all year round. You could be involved with our WILD themed birthday parties, holiday activities, Forest School days, curriculum linked school visits, woodcraft activities and assisting with setting-up and packing away. The role can progress to a Volunteer Education Leader role if desired.

You don’t have to have a teaching qualification, just a desire to share your enjoyment of nature with a captive audience. You will need to be willing to work outside in all weathers. A good pair of wellies is recommended!

Skills

Specialist knowledge and experience
- Volunteers must be aged 18 or over to volunteer.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Due to the nature of this volunteer position, vetting checks will be obtained including an Enhanced DBS check with a barred list check. We can only accept a DBS certificate where your certificate is registered with the Update Service.
- All Essex Wildlife Trust volunteers are required to complete any essential training including safeguarding.
- The role holder has a responsibility to safeguard and to volunteer in a way that promotes the safety and wellbeing of children and young people.
- Knowledge of /or interest in wildlife and an interest in working for a charity which is determined to protect wildlife for the future and for the people of Essex.
- Enthusiasm, a positive attitude and an ability to work well with people from a variety of backgrounds is essential.

Special conditions
- Some of our education roles will require a good level of physical fitness to support children in an outdoor environment, on uneven ground. Please let us know if you have accessibility requirements.
- All Essex Wildlife Trust volunteers are required to complete any essential training.
- The role holder has a responsibility to safeguard and to volunteer in a way that promotes the safety and wellbeing of children and young people.