Learning Support Volunteer - Old Moor

Do you remember the joy of finding your first ladybird? Share in the excitement by supporting our visiting school groups and helping the children to experience the wonders of nature. Typical outdoor activities include hands on explorations of meadows, woodland and ponds and wildlife watching from the hides.

Our learning programme aims to give young people the chance to experience nature first-hand and by helping groups you can be part of that exciting journey of discovery!  We are looking for enthusiastic people to support our Learning Officer with groups on the reserve.

Once famous for its coal mining, this stunning area of reclaimed wetland now teems with wildlife and with an exciting indoor classroom, well-equipped visitor centre and a range of excellent education facilities we offer superb facilities for school visits.

Our meadows, bird hides and ponds also provide a great opportunity for pupils to get a closer look at the Dearne Valley's fascinating wild creatures. Old Moor is the ideal place for children to have an unforgettable first-hand experience of nature bringing their learning to life.

What's in it for you:

An induction to the reserve
Induction to the RSPB, it's vision and ways of working
An opportunity to be part of the country's largest nature conservation charity
The opportunity to become part of a friendly, supportive team
Regular line management support
Opportunities to have fun in an outdoor learning environment with young people
Opportunities to share/gain natural history knowledge
Relevant health and safety training
An RSPB uniform and name badge
References, if appropriate

Essential Skills/Experience needed:
* A keen interest in wildlife, conservation and the environment, but no expertise required!
* An enthusiasm for outdoor education and a willingness to learn new skills
* A resourceful and flexible approach to be able to cope with a wide variety of ages and abilities
* Abundant enthusiasm and excellent communication skills.
* Ability to communicate effectively with children of differing needs and levels of understanding
* Ability to work as part of a busy team
*  Good organisation skills
* Computer literacy - ability to use e-mail, internet, word processing

Desirable skills/experience:
* Some ecological knowledge of habitat types would be an advantage
* Some knowledge of the local history of the area would be an advantage

References will be taken up. 

All training necessary and background information will be provided and since you are giving up your time, it is only fair we offer to reimburse your travel expenses (up to 25 miles max).

The RSPB is the country's largest nature conservation charity, inspiring everyone to give nature a home. By volunteering your time and talents you can help us increase our impact and help us save more nature.

For further details and an application form, please contact John Clifton, Learning Officer, on 01226 273831 or via john.clifton@rspb.org.uk