At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead engaging exercise sessions and support older people's health and wellbeing.
- Company: Join Age UK Croydon, a community-focused organisation making a difference.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, competitive salary, and the chance to impact lives positively.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal growth and community engagement.
- Why this job: Empower older adults to live healthier, more connected lives in your community.
- Qualifications: Fitness qualifications and experience in health promotion or project monitoring.
If you're looking for a rewarding role combining community engagement and health, we'd love to hear from you! Age UK Croydon is looking for an enthusiastic Senior Project Officer to help guide our Healthy Lifestyles Service, which delivers exercise programmes, health checks, social engagement, health hubs and Memory Tree Cafés for people living with dementia and their carers across Croydon.
As Senior Project Officer, you will help improve the health, wellbeing and independence of older people across the community. Working closely with the Healthy Lifestyles Service Manager, you will shape and deliver meaningful activities while providing day-to-day support to staff and volunteers.
Key responsibilities include (but are not limited to):
- Leading, supporting and motivating two Project Officers and a dedicated team of volunteers.
- Delivering engaging seated and standing exercise sessions that help participants improve their mobility, strength, balance and confidence.
- Building and nurturing strong relationships with care homes, community venues, health professionals and partner organisations to maximise our reach and impact.
- Supporting the planning, development and continuous improvement of health and wellbeing programmes that make a real difference to people's lives.
This varied and rewarding role combines leadership, partnership working and direct delivery to help older people stay active, connected and independent.
About You
We are looking for someone who is energetic, approachable and committed to supporting older people to live healthier, more connected lives. You will have:
- Level 2 Fitness Instructor qualification, Exercise Referral qualification, Otago Exercise Programme, REACT qualification, or another relevant physical activity, fitness, falls prevention or rehabilitation qualification.
- Experience of monitoring projects and reporting on outcomes and performance.
- Knowledge of the health and social care sector.
- Strong communication, organisational and administrative skills.
- Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office and database systems.
- Experience or qualifications in health promotion, nutrition, health checks, chair-based exercise or group exercise delivery.
- Experience of risk assessment and health and safety management.
To apply please visit www.ageuk.org.uk/croydon for an application pack. You can also send an email to Executive.Assistant@ageukcroydon.org.uk to receive an application pack. CV's will not be accepted.
Please ensure that your application demonstrates how your experience, skills and abilities meet the criteria set out in the Person Specification and provide specific examples of these. Please also ensure you complete the equal opportunities monitoring form. Completed application forms should be signed and sent to: Executive.Assistant@ageukcroydon.org.uk Applications sent by post should be marked confidential and for the attention of: Human Resources – Recruitment, Age UK Croydon, 81 Brigstock Road, Thornton Heath, CR7 7JH
Closing date for applications: 21st September 2026
Interview Dates: TBC
This post is subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service check.
Senior Exercise and Wellbeing Officer - Thornton Heath, London employer: Age UK Croydon
Age UK Croydon is an exceptional employer that prioritises community engagement and the wellbeing of older adults in Thornton Heath, London. With a strong focus on employee growth, you will have the opportunity to lead impactful health initiatives while working in a supportive environment that values collaboration and innovation. Join us to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve, all while enjoying a flexible work schedule and a commitment to your professional development.
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Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Qualifications:In the wellness and health coaching world, your certifications are key! Make sure to highlight any relevant qualifications, such as health coach certifications, nutrition credentials, or any workshops you've attended. We want to see how you can apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios!
Craft a Relatable Cover Letter:Your cover letter should express your passion for helping others achieve wellness goals. Share any personal experiences or stories that led you to this field. This helps us see the genuine person behind the application — we love a good personal touch!
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Professional but Approachable Formatting:When you're crafting your CV, keep it clear and easy to read, but don’t shy away from a bit of colour or personality! Use bullet points to make your experience pop, and consider including a brief personal statement to summarise your coaching philosophy. We all appreciate a well-organised document that reflects who you are!
How to prepare for a job interview at Age UK Croydon
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Make sure you can explain your coaching methodologies clearly. Think about how you approach client goals and what techniques you use—whether it’s motivational interviewing or goal-setting strategies. Practise presenting case scenarios to highlight how you help individuals in their wellness journeys.
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