Volunteer Learning Assistant - Saltholme

Do you remember finding your first ladybird? Share in the excitement and assist in the delivery of our education programme to visiting schools where typical activities range from hands on exploration of meadows, woods and ponds to wildlife watching from the hides.

To help us deliver environmental education at our reserve we need you to deliver fun and exciting activities as part of out-of-classroom learning.  Our learning programme aims to give school children the chance to experience nature first-hand and you can be part of that rewarding journey of discovery!

The opportunity to make a real difference enriching the lives of youngsters and inspiring them to care and learn more about the natural world with the RSPB.

We'll give you training and experience to build your confidence in helping children have wonderful hands-on experiences with nature.  We can potentially give you the skills to kick start a career in environmental or community education.

You'll be part of a small friendly team of staff and volunteers and have the opportunity to make new friends.

Essential skills/experience needed:
* 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 of children
* 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 students and their teacher.
* Abundant enthusiasm and excellent communication skills.
* Ability to communicate effectively with children of differing needs and levels of understanding.
* Self-motivated with ability to work as part of a team and alone.
* Good organisation skills.
* Computer literacy - ability to use e-mail, internet, word processing

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

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 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.

Please contact Susan McGinty, Learning Officer, for an application form on 01642 542077 or via susan.mcginty@rspb.org,uk