Head of Special Educational Needs (Care Farm)

Head of Special Educational Needs (Care Farm)

Position: Head of Special Educational Needs (Care Farm)
Reporting to: Director of Specialist Services
Location: SweetTree Fields Farm - Mill Hill (137 Marsh Ln, London NW7 4EY)
Schedule: Monday - Friday 9am-5pm. 37.5 hours weekly.
Salary: £40,000 - £50,000 per annum

Our Commitment to Exceptional Care:
At SweetTree, we do not just provide care – we create meaningful connections and enhance the lives of vulnerable individuals. At SweetTree Farming for All, we combine the vast farming experience with the award-winning care and transitional living focus of SweetTree Home Care Services. Our dedicated team has the experience and skills to work with children, adults, and older people with a variety of care and support needs. Our 14-acre farm at Sweet Tree Fields offers a wide range of activities, including livestock farming, horticulture, bush crafts, conservation, eco, natural crafts, and cooking. SweetTree Home Care Services is a leading provider with an Outstanding rating from the CQC. For two decades, we have been dedicated to offering exceptional support and community and home based services for individuals requiring support.

The Role:
We are seeking a passionate and dedicated Head of Farm Services to lead the delivery of our unique care farm in Mill Hill, London. At SweetTree Farm, we are committed to providing high-quality education, care, and support to our clients, their families, and farm visitors, all while promoting a deep connection with the natural environment. If you have a strong background in special educational needs (SEN), a love for the outdoors, and a desire to make a positive impact on people's lives, we invite you to join our team and help us grow and nurture this special place.

Responsibilities: As the Head of Farm Services, your role is pivotal in ensuring the success and growth of our Farm Services. You will lead a dedicated team and work closely with various stakeholders to achieve the following:

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the farm and manage the workload of the farm team.
• Develop and expand the Managed Service by collaborating with internal company stakeholders.
• Deliver high-quality, education-focused services to enable the growth, independence, and development of all clients and organisations visiting the farm.
• Effectively manage the farm budget, including project budget management, reporting, and monitoring and evaluation.
• Create and deliver inspiring outreach programs that cater to various user groups and interests, including activities such as livestock farming, horticulture, bush crafts, conservation, eco, natural crafts, and cooking.
• Lead group educational programs and activities, including nature trails, arts and crafts, and cookery.
• Promote and advocate for SweetTree Farm to clients, community groups, schools, and other relevant bodies.
• Collaborate with company directors and the Marketing Manager to fulfil growth and marketing goals.
• Ensure the care, well-being, and handling of all farm livestock.
• Maintain records and compliance in areas including client development, health and safety, and land use.
• Perform risk assessments to ensure the safety of farm staff and participants.
• Manage and develop grant funding and volunteering programs.
• Act as the ultimate backstop for Farm Workers during their absence.
• Represent the managed services in both internal meetings and external stakeholder engagements.
• Uphold the independence and dignity of all clients and participants, while respecting diversity and different cultures.
• Maintain confidentiality and observe data protection guidelines.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Proven professional background in special education needs (SEN) or care, with track record of managing teams and complex activity-based settings
• Proven professional background in special educational needs (SEN) or care, with a track record of managing teams and complex activity-based settings.
• Passion for the outdoors and solid experience working in outdoor, horticultural, or farm-based settings.
• Experience in project management and collaboration with various partners.
• Relevant professional qualification.
• Experience in supporting individuals with a variety of needs in group settings.
• Experience working with young people, vulnerable groups, and those with challenging behaviours.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to be authoritative, persuasive, and motivational.
• A proactive and solutions-oriented attitude.
• Excellent organisational skills with a strong focus on customer service.
• Strong literacy and computer skills.
• Working knowledge of first aid and relevant health and safety issues in outdoor settings.
• Willingness to work in an outdoor setting in a practical, off-grid farm office.

What’s in It for You?

• 25 days annual leave + 8 bank holidays
• A 'Me Day' – an extra day off + £20 to treat yourself
• Ongoing support and development, with accredited training
• Health & Wellbeing Programme
• Discounted shopping & services platforms
• Free eye care vouchers
• Free DBS check
• Company Pension Scheme
• Longevity Service Awards
• Fun social events (Christmas & Summer parties!)

Dress Code: Professional attire meeting health and safety requirements.

If you are passionate about making a positive impact through outdoor education and care and possess the essential experience, skills, and attitudes outlined above, we encourage you to apply for the position of Head of Farm Services at SweetTree Farm. Join us in our mission to help clients and communities thrive in harmony with the natural environment while combining farming experience with the award-winning care and transitional living focus of SweetTree Home Care Services.

To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are the ideal candidate for this role. SweetTree Farm is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates.