At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and shape an exciting new watersports programme at Bewl Adventures.
- Company: Join Bewl Adventures, a vibrant outdoor destination in the South East.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, gym membership, discounts, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: This is a unique opportunity to build something meaningful from the ground up.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by creating unforgettable experiences for participants and staff.
- Qualifications: Must have RYA Dinghy Instructor and Safety Boat Certificate; 2 years of experience required.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 33000 £ per year.
Help shape the future of watersports at Bewl Adventures. Bewl Adventures is launching a new watersports programme at Bewl Water, set within one of the South East's most iconic outdoor destinations. We're looking for a Chief Instructor / Head of Watersports to play a defining role in building this programme from the ground up. This is a rare opportunity to take real ownership — shaping the programme's direction, standards, and culture from day one, rather than stepping into a pre‐existing system. You'll be trusted to influence how activities are delivered, how teams are developed, and how safety, quality, and enjoyment come together on the water.
If you're an experienced watersports professional who wants to build something meaningful, lead with confidence, and create an outstanding experience for both participants and staff, this role at Bewl Adventures offers the chance to leave a genuine legacy.
Overview
The Chief Instructor & Head of Watersports is the senior technical and instructional lead for all Bewl Adventure activity provision. This role is responsible for driving high standards across safety, training, technical delivery and participant experience for both land‐based and watersports activities. As the most senior technical role within Bewl Adventure, the Chief Instructor plays a critical part in maintaining operational readiness, staff competency, safeguarding standards and the centre's reputation for delivering safe, engaging and high‐quality outdoor adventures.
Key Responsibilities
- Leadership & Operations
- Lead the daily delivery of all Bewl Adventure activities, including watersports, climbing, archery, raft building and multi‐sport sessions
- Support the Centre Manager with operational planning, scheduling and staffing
- Supervise instructors, create daily rotas and allocate responsibilities
- Lead daily staff briefings and debriefs
- Ensure all sessions meet Bewl Adventure standards for safety, quality and learning
- Watersports Leadership
- Act as technical lead for all sailing and paddle sports
- Oversee safety boat operations, weather assessments and rescue protocols
- Deliver training in dinghy sailing, safety boat handling, SUP and water rescue
- Ensure all watersports equipment, PPE and safety craft are maintained and inspected
- Maintain compliance with RYA and British Canoeing guidance
- Safety, Compliance & Training
- Maintain compliance with SOPs, Risk Assessments and Emergency Action Plans
- Lead incident response, investigation and reporting
- Oversee daily and weekly equipment checks
- Plan and run emergency and rescue drills
- Train, mentor and sign off instructors
- Maintain the Competency & Training Sign‐Off Matrix
- Equipment & Participant Engagement
- Oversee equipment inventory, PPE care and inspection standards
- Act as a point of contact for visiting teachers and group leaders
- Ensure all participants receive a safe, rewarding Bewl Adventure experience
Essential Requirements
Qualifications
- RYA Dinghy Instructor (essential)
- RYA Safety Boat Certificate (essential)
- British Canoeing Paddlesport Instructor (or willingness to obtain)
- 16‐hour Outdoor First Aid (preferred)
Experience & Skills
- Minimum 2 years' outdoor / watersports instructing experience
- Previous experience supervising instructors
- Excellent leadership, communication and safety awareness
- Calm, decisive and organised under pressure
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £28,000.00-£33,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Discounted or free food
- Employee discount
- Gym membership
- Health & wellbeing programme
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Referral programme
Ability to commute/relocate: Royal Tunbridge Wells TN3 8JH: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Experience: Outdoor/Watersports: 2 years (required)
Work Location: In person
Head of Watersports & Chief Instructor in Lamberhurst employer: Bewl Water
At Bewl Adventures, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and supportive work culture that empowers our team to shape the future of watersports in one of the South East's most stunning outdoor locations. As the Chief Instructor / Head of Watersports, you'll enjoy a unique opportunity to lead and innovate, with access to comprehensive benefits including a company pension, health and wellbeing programmes, and opportunities for professional growth. Join us in creating memorable experiences while enjoying the perks of working in a vibrant community dedicated to excellence in outdoor adventure.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Watersports & Chief Instructor in Lamberhurst
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Bewl Adventures inside out! Research their current watersports offerings and think about how you can elevate them. This shows you're genuinely interested and ready to make an impact.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current staff or alumni from Bewl Adventures on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just help you stand out in the application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by thinking about your vision for the new watersports programme. Be ready to share your ideas on safety, training, and participant engagement — this is your chance to shine!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re keen on being part of the Bewl Adventures family right from the start.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Watersports & Chief Instructor in Lamberhurst
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Watersports:When you're writing your application, let your love for watersports shine through! Share your experiences and what drives you to lead in this field. We want to see your enthusiasm for shaping the future of watersports at Bewl Adventures.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role. We’re looking for someone who can take ownership and influence our programme, so show us how you can do just that!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key achievements stand out. This will help us quickly see why you’re the perfect fit for the Chief Instructor role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Bewl Adventures.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bewl Water
✨Know Your Watersports Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on all aspects of watersports, especially sailing and paddle sports. Be prepared to discuss your experience with different activities, safety protocols, and how you would implement training for instructors. This shows you're not just passionate but also knowledgeable.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a potential Head of Watersports, it's crucial to showcase your leadership abilities. Think of examples where you've successfully led a team or managed a project. Be ready to explain how you would motivate and develop your instructors while maintaining high safety standards.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that put you in hypothetical situations, like handling an emergency or managing a difficult participant. Practise your responses to these scenarios, focusing on your decision-making process and how you ensure safety and enjoyment for everyone involved.
✨Show Your Passion for Outdoor Adventures
Let your enthusiasm for outdoor activities shine through during the interview. Share personal stories about your experiences in watersports and how they’ve shaped your approach to teaching and safety. This will help the interviewers see your genuine commitment to creating memorable experiences at Bewl Adventures.
