At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting outdoor activities for kids and adults in a beautiful countryside setting.
- Company: Join Essex Outdoors, a vibrant team dedicated to adventure and education.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, subsidised meals, and staff accommodation options.
- Why this job: Make a difference while having fun outdoors and gaining valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Passion for outdoor activities; training provided for all skill levels.
- Other info: Flexible hours, great team spirit, and opportunities for longer contracts.
The predicted salary is between 25081 - 25081 £ per year.
Seasonal Outdoor Activity Instructors are being recruited for Essex Outdoors' Centres for 2026. If shortlisted, you will be invited to a selection day to meet our staff and demonstrate your skills. Successful candidates will complete our core and centre-based training programme.
As a Seasonal Instructor, you will run a variety of outdoor activities for school-aged children and sometimes adults. Full training is provided before the season starts.
Why work for Essex Outdoors?
- Summer seasonal role with 3-6 month contracts available.
- National Governing Body qualifications in outdoor activities, particularly sailing and paddle sports, are desirable but in-house training is provided.
- Availability around Easter 2026 is required for full training prior to starting the role.
- Training includes land-based activity delivery, first aid, manual handling, safeguarding, and disability awareness.
- Subsidised meals are available at our residential centres.
- Staff accommodation packages at Bradwell and Mersea.
- Usual hours are 8.30am to 5.30pm, 37 hours a week, with some flexibility including weekend days.
- Time off in lieu will be provided for any extra hours worked.
- Assistance with inspection and maintenance of activity equipment, care of sites, and some domestic duties is expected.
- You will be based at one centre but may support large bookings at other locations.
- Branded uniform will be provided and must be worn; you will need to provide your own sensible footwear.
Year-on-year, many summer staff return to work for another season, and opportunities for longer contracts may become available. Some staff may have the chance to complete nationally recognised qualifications.
How to apply?
To apply for this position, you will need an up-to-date CV and a personal statement explaining your interest in the role, including:
- Availability - Your earliest start date after 1st April 2025.
- Commitments - Dates of any commitments that mean you are unavailable to work between April and September 2025.
Essex Outdoors is part of Essex County Council (ECC). A DBS check is required and must be registered with the DBS update service. ECC is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults.
Accountabilities
- Contribute to the development and effective implementation of outdoor programmes.
- Supervise and provide pastoral care for young people (and adults where necessary) in residence at the centre.
- Carry out repairs and maintenance to activity equipment and Centre buildings and grounds to ensure a safe environment.
- Ensure compliance with Health and Safety requirements of Essex County Council.
- Specific individual and shared targets and objectives are defined annually within the performance management framework.
The Experience You Will Bring
- Possess Local Qualification NGB Certification e.g. BCU 1,2- or 3-star BEL in Climbing, MTB, High Ropes, Orienteering, Problem Solving, Assault course, Low Ropes, sailing RYA Instructor.
- B.E.L NVQ Level 2 Multiple Local Qualification, NGB Certification e.g. BCU 1,2- or 3-star SPA/WGL training and a D1 Category driving licence are desirable.
- Good knowledge of outdoor and residential education with the ability to develop skills within the role.
- Clear and effective communication skills with the ability to motivate, encourage, and relate well to young people and adults.
- Ability to organise and plan ahead and develop relevant outdoor youth work programmes in response to assessed educational needs.
- Ability to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the youth work curriculum delivered.
- Experience of establishing and maintaining a safe environment for specific activities.
Seasonal Outdoor Activity Instructors, Danbury employer: Essex County Council
Contact Detail:
Essex County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Seasonal Outdoor Activity Instructors, Danbury
✨Tip Number 1
Get ready for that selection day! Brush up on your outdoor skills and think about how you can showcase your personality. Remember, they want to see how you interact with others, so be yourself and let your enthusiasm shine through!
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or past instructors at Essex Outdoors. They can give you insider tips on what to expect and how to stand out during the selection process. Plus, it’s always good to have a friendly face when you arrive!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare some questions to ask during the selection day. This shows you're genuinely interested in the role and the organisation. Ask about the training programme or what a typical day looks like – it’ll help you get a feel for the job and impress the team!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re following instructions, which is a big plus in any job application!
We think you need these skills to ace Seasonal Outdoor Activity Instructors, Danbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Stellar CV: Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight any relevant experience you have in outdoor activities or working with children. Keep it clear and concise, and don’t forget to tailor it to the role!
Nail Your Personal Statement: This is your chance to shine! Explain why you're passionate about being a Seasonal Outdoor Activity Instructor. Share any personal experiences that relate to the role and show us your enthusiasm for outdoor activities.
Be Honest About Availability: We need to know when you can start and if you have any commitments that might clash with the role. Be upfront about your availability between April and September 2025, as this helps us plan better!
Apply Through Our Website: Remember, don’t hit that red apply button! Instead, click the link provided in the job description to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure we get your details right!
How to prepare for a job interview at Essex County Council
✨Know Your Activities
Familiarise yourself with the range of outdoor activities you'll be instructing. Whether it's sailing, climbing, or paddle sports, having a solid understanding of these activities will show your passion and readiness to engage with the role.
✨Showcase Your Skills
During the selection day, be prepared to demonstrate your skills. Bring any relevant qualifications or certifications, and don't hesitate to share your previous experiences in outdoor education. This is your chance to shine!
✨Be Ready for Teamwork
Emphasise your ability to work as part of a team. The role involves collaborating with other instructors and supporting large bookings at different locations. Share examples of how you've successfully worked in teams before.
✨Communicate Effectively
Strong communication skills are key when working with children and adults alike. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, and think about how you can motivate and encourage participants during activities.