At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fun activities and support young international students in a vibrant summer school environment.
- Company: Join Stafford House, a leader in providing enriching English language experiences.
- Benefits: Earn £610.08 per week, with full-board accommodation options and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make lifelong friends while gaining valuable skills and experience in a multicultural setting.
- Qualifications: Enthusiasm, confidence, and a passion for working with young people are essential.
- Other info: Flexible contracts from 4-8 weeks, with potential for career progression in future summers.
The predicted salary is between 500 - 1500 £ per month.
Looking for work that's fun and exciting over the summer holidays? A little different to the norm? Come and join us as a Summer School Activity Leader in summer 2026. Working as a Summer School Activity Leader allows you to earn more than just money. You'll gain the transferable skills that future employers are also looking for. You'll make life-long friends, enjoy meeting new people and experiencing new challenges. We can even support you with full-board accommodation in many of our schools.
At Stafford House Study Holidays, we welcome over 6,000 young, international students from around the world each summer. Our mission is to help students improve their English through engaging classroom lessons and a lively program of activities and excursions. That's where you come in!
Locations: Bournemouth, Canterbury, Cambridge, Central London, Uxbridge, Northampton, Oakham (notable for the Michael Owen Red Stars football school) plus new for 2026 - York!
Contracts: You can select a contract lasting 4-8 weeks, from 19th June to 10th August (25th August in Central London). Dates vary depending on your school. You need to be available for at least 3 weeks in July, as this is our busiest period.
What’s in it for you as an Activity Leader?
- Full-board accommodation can be provided in all locations (excluding central London) for a nominal salary weekly deduction (as set by the government).
- A great opportunity if you are pursuing a career working with young people, in education, sports or drama, with appraisals and training, ideal for your continuous professional development.
- It's great fun! Some of our specialist courses are dedicated to football, STEM and business. Even better for your CPD if you have an interest, or are studying these subjects.
- You are welcomed and supported with a full induction and training on your first day and throughout your contract.
- Earn while gaining experience in supporting young people in a multi-cultural environment.
- Lots of our Activity Leaders return in the following summers, which gives them the option to progress to more senior roles.
You must already have the right to work in the UK.
Incentive: Employees may receive a £500 discount on CELTA training course provided by Stafford House, post qualifying contract. (T&Cs apply contact us for more information)
Pay: £610.08 per week + holiday entitlement. There is an offset salary deduction for optional full-board accommodation of £77.70 per week if you wish to stay with us. This amount is set by the government.
What You'll Need To Be An Activity Leader:
- You must be able to work full-time (48 hours per week over 6-days).
- Lots of confidence, energy and enthusiasm.
- You don't need to have specific qualifications, be an expert in a particular activity or be a good sportsperson, but you must have an interest and the ability to lead the varied activities for groups of young people.
- You must be professional, friendly and have some experience, or a good understanding of how to support the well-being of young people.
- Be flexible, adaptable, and able to think on your feet.
- Be a great communicator with a good level of spoken and written English.
We take safeguarding very seriously. If successful we will conduct full pre-employment checks including an Enhanced DBS check, in line with our safer recruitment policy and Keeping Children Safe in Education 2025. You must already have the right to work in the UK as we are unable to sponsor you.
We will begin shortlist calls from week commencing 5th January 2026.
WHO ARE WE? Stafford House has over 70 years experience in providing international students with great English language study experiences in the UK. Our mission is to educate, inspire and help our students enjoy our locations, empowering them with confidence to realise their personal potential. Stafford House comprises 2 brands, Stafford House International and Stafford House Study Holidays.
Our commitment to safeguarding: CATS Global Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our students and expect everyone connected with the organisation to share this commitment. All positions are subject to the satisfactory completion of safer recruitment pre-employment checks in line with KCSIE guidelines. All shortlisted candidates will be required to complete a criminal declaration form prior to interview and be subject to online checks which may include social media checks in addition to an enhanced DBS check (DBS process paid for by CATS Global Schools), references and if applicable, an overseas police check.
Our commitment to inclusion and diversity: We are committed to diversity, inclusion and belonging. Building on our core values Pioneering, Persevering, People we pledge to deliver a series of events, guest speakers and focus groups to make CATS Global Schools an employer of choice for all.
What are you waiting for? We look forward to hearing from you. Good luck!
Activity Leader (Residential or Non- Residential) Summer 2026 employer: CATS Global Schools
Contact Detail:
CATS Global Schools Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Activity Leader (Residential or Non- Residential) Summer 2026
✨Tip Number 1
Get your networking game on! Reach out to friends, family, or even past colleagues who might have connections in the education or activity leadership sectors. You never know who might have a lead on a great opportunity!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your personality! When you get that interview, let your enthusiasm shine through. Share your experiences with young people and how you can bring fun and energy to the role. Remember, they want someone who can engage and inspire!
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared for anything! Think about the types of activities you might lead and come up with a few ideas to share during your interview. This shows you're proactive and ready to jump into action, which is exactly what they’re looking for.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Stafford House team. Let’s make this summer unforgettable together!
We think you need these skills to ace Activity Leader (Residential or Non- Residential) Summer 2026
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm for working with young people and your passion for fun activities.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of an Activity Leader. Mention any relevant experience you have with young people or in leading activities, as this will really catch our eye!
Keep It Clear and Concise: While we love a good story, keep your application clear and to the point. Use simple language and structure your thoughts well, so it’s easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for the team.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and can get back to you quickly. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join us at Stafford House!
How to prepare for a job interview at CATS Global Schools
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand what being an Activity Leader involves. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities and the types of activities you'll be leading. This will help you answer questions confidently and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
This role is all about energy and enthusiasm! During the interview, let your passion for working with young people shine through. Share any relevant experiences or stories that highlight your ability to engage and inspire others.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you'd handle specific situations with young people. Think about examples from your past where you've demonstrated flexibility, adaptability, and great communication skills. Prepare a few scenarios in advance to showcase your problem-solving abilities.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! This shows your interest in the role and helps you determine if it's the right fit for you. Consider asking about the training process, team dynamics, or what a typical day looks like for an Activity Leader.