Wilder Learning Officer

Sussex Wildlife Trust

To deliver our new strategic plan – Our Wild Sussex – we need people with bold and innovative ideas to help us to achieve our ambitions for local wildlife and wild places.

We are committed to restoring and protecting at least 30% of Sussex land and sea for nature, inspiring one in four people to take meaningful action for wildlife, building a stronger more inclusive and diverse organisation and becoming a net zero and climate resilient organisation.

We are looking for the best and most talented people to join our team and help us deliver this exciting and ambitious strategy. We are keen to hear from you even if you don't have all the skills and experience outlined in the Job Description but have the potential to grow into a role.

So, if you are someone who is determined to see a Sussex rich in wildlife and you have drive, energy and commitment to our values of Innovation, Passion, Collaboration and Inclusion why not apply now to join our great team, working together to deliver Our Wild Sussex.

In order to encourage diversity and inclusivity within the environment sector, we particularly welcome applications from people who have an ethnically or geographically diverse background, who are non-graduates and/or are living in economically deprived areas.

The role

As a Wilder Learning Officer, you’ll help shape and deliver an inspiring programme of outdoor learning, training and engagement that connects people of all ages with nature across Sussex. You’ll coordinate and deliver high‑quality sessions to teachers and children across EYFS, Primary and Secondary phases, in-school and outdoor settings. You’ll deliver and assess our accredited Forest School and Wild Beach training programmes to adults; advise on school grounds improvement for nature; and champion the benefits of nature connection through a wide range of activities and events. Alongside hands‑on delivery, you’ll support in marking, evaluation and planning; contribute to income generation; and help ensure our schools and learning programmes are safe, inclusive and reflective of best practice. You’ll play a key role in communicating our work—engaging with teachers, families, volunteers and external partners, acting as a friendly, knowledgeable ambassador for Sussex Wildlife Trust.

This is a varied and practical role at the heart of our Wilder Learning team, empowering educators and wider school communities to connect with nature and take meaningful action for wildlife in Sussex.

A valid drivers’ licence is required for this role.

This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS with Barred List check.

The person

You’ll be an enthusiastic, experienced and adaptable practitioner who loves working with children, young people and educators. You’ll bring experience of delivering engaging outdoor learning and building strong, positive relationships with schools and community partners. You’ll be confident leading groups outside, attentive to safety and wellbeing, and comfortable navigating the practicalities of varied education settings. You’ll be organised, reflective and able to manage your time well with a professional approach to planning, communication and safeguarding. You’ll share our commitment to inclusion and the belief that everyone should have opportunities to connect with nature. Above all, you’ll bring personal passion, curiosity and care for wildlife and outdoor learning, using your skills to inspire others and support a thriving, collaborative team.

Benefits

• 25 days holiday plus 8 bank holidays each year (pro-rated for part time staff)
• Pension – company contribution from 6% and employee contribution of 3%
• Life Assurance - Pension Scheme Members 2 x Salary, Non-Pension Scheme Members 1 x Salary
• 2 days paid leave for volunteering each year
• Flexible working policy
• Enhanced Sick Pay
• EAP
• Employee discounts
• Informal car share arrangements

For more detailed information see what we offer page in the Recruitment Pack.

We will be reviewing applications on a rolling basis and may close the vacancy early so please get you application in as soon as possible.

Closing Date: 17th April 2026
Interview Date: 6th May 2026