Volunteer Learning Assistant - Fairburn Ings

Do you remember fishing for sticklebacks? Share in the excitement by delivering our inspiring outdoor learning programme to visiting school groups where typical activities include hands on explorations of meadows, woodland and ponds and wildlife watching from the hides.

Our exciting learning programme aims to give young people the chance to experience nature first-hand and by leading a group, you can be part of that rewarding journey of discovery!

Fairburn Ings is an oasis for wildlife in the Aire valley. With thousands of ducks and geese in the winter and dragonflies, terns and swallows in the summer, there is something exciting to see every day of the year. With two large classrooms, a boardwalk, and large wildlife-viewing and pond-dipping platforms, Fairburn Ings is a marvellous place for young people to have an unforgettable experience of nature.

We are now looking for someone that can support us on Mondays. 

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 and families
Opportunities to share/gain natural history knowledge
Relevant health and safety training
An RSPB uniform and name badge
References, if appropriate

What you need:
* The confidence and ability to lead or facilitate a fun and active day's education programme both in the field and the classroom with a group of young people and their staff
* A keen interest in wildlife, conservation and the environment
* 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 a group
* Abundant enthusiasm and excellent communication skills
* Ability to communicate effectively with children of differing needs and levels of understanding
* Able to work as part of a busy team and independently as required
* Good organisation skills
* Some knowldege of natural history, but expertise not required!

In line with our Safeguarding policy, all applicants are subject to an Enhanced Disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service (England and Wales), Access NI in Northern Ireland, or a PVG Scheme registration check from Volunteer Scotland in Scotland. 

References will also 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 re-imburse 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.

Please apply by contacting Andy Rayner, Learning Officer at andy.rayner@rspb.org.uk or 01977 628191