Volunteer Learning Assistant, Fairburn Ings

Do you remember finding your first ladybird? Share in the excitement by delivering some of our inspiring outdoor learning programme to visiting school groups where typical activities include hands on explorations of meadows, woodlands and ponds and wildlife watching in 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! We are looking for enthusiastic people to deliver some of our outdoor learning activities to groups on the reserve. 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.

Essential skills/experience needed: * 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, 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 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. * Computer literacy - ability to use e-mail, internet, word processing Desirable skills/experience: * out of classroom 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

Minimum:

- Approx one day a week during summer term

Duration:

On-going

Period:

During school terms, but mainly April to July

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

Contact

Jan Elsworth, Fairburn Ings
Tel: 01977 628191
Email: Jan.Elsworth@rspb.org.uk

Notes

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.