Wilder Learning Assistant - Ingrebourne nature discovery centre (Hornchurch)
Ingrebourne Nature Discovery Centre,
Ingrebourne Valley Nature Discovery Centre, Hornchurch Country Park, Squadrons Approach , Hornchurch, RM12 6DF (Sat Nav RM12 6TS)Position details
Commitment:
WeekdaysFrequency:
WeeklyBackground 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.
Time commitment
- Ideally weekly, but this can be flexible.
- Ability to be flexible with days is helpful, however there may be opportunities to volunteers on set days.
Role description
- Shadow and support the Wilder Learning Officer (WLO) to deliver activities for children.
- 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.
Specialist knowledge and experience
- Volunteers must be aged 18 or over to volunteer.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Enthusiasm, a positive attitude and an ability to work well with people from a variety of backgrounds is essential.
- 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.
- Interest in working for a charity which is determined to protect wildlife for the future and for the people of Essex.
Why volunteer and why this opportunity?
If you are keen to volunteer with children and young people, helping them to discover the natural world and build their confidence, this could be the role for you. No two days will be the same and you will have the satisfaction of seeing the children's' knowledge and confidence grow.
As well as the opportunity to make a significant contribution to a local wildlife charity, the role provides opportunities to develop skills and knowledge. It is also an opportunity to become part of a thriving community of committed volunteers. This opportunity will allow you to get to know your local community well and connect with other Essex Wildlife Trust members and volunteers in your area.
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!
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.
Safeguarding and Safer Recruitment Statement
Essex Wildlife Trust is committed to equal opportunities and maintaining a safe and secure environment for all children and young people. Therefore, the successful volunteer for this position will be subject to vetting checks including a Disclosure and Barring Service check. Please note, it is an offence to apply for this volunteering role if barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children.
EDI Statement
Essex Wildlife Trust is committed to an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone is welcome. As a conservation charity, we know how important diversity is, both in our natural world and amongst the people who choose to volunteer with us. We want everyone to feel valued and empowered to contribute to our vision of “A county rich in wildlife with people connected to nature”.
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