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- Tasks: Lead exciting outdoor activities for kids and adults while ensuring safety and fun.
- Company: Join Essex Outdoors, a vibrant team dedicated to adventure and education.
- Benefits: Enjoy summer contracts, subsidised meals, and staff accommodation options.
- Why this job: Make a difference in young people's lives while having an unforgettable summer experience.
- Qualifications: Passion for outdoor activities and great communication skills are essential.
- Other info: Full training provided, with opportunities for further qualifications and career growth.
The predicted salary is between 1200 - 1800 £ per month.
We're recruiting Instructors to run exhilarating activities for small groups of children and sometimes adults too! We provide full training.
As a Seasonal Outdoor Activity Instructor with Essex Outdoors, you'll run a wide variety of outdoor activities for our diverse range of customers with a focus on school-aged children. Full training and the chance to meet your new team mates is provided before the season starts.
Benefits- 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 to all staff.
- You will need to be available around Easter 2026 to undertake 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 sites
- Usual hours 8.30am to 5.30pm, 37 hours a week
- Some flexibility in working hours including weekend days will be required
- Time off in lieu will be provided for any extra hours worked
- Help out where needed e.g. inspection and maintenance of activity equipment, care of sites and some domestic duties
- You'll be based at one centre, but may be asked to support with large bookings at other locations
- Branded uniform will be provided and must be worn
- You'll need to provide your own sensible footwear
- Contribute to the development and effective implementation of the outdoor programmes.
- Contribute to the supervision and pastoral care of young people (and adults where necessary) in residence in the centre and to act as a positive role model.
- Carry out repairs and renewals to activity equipment and practical maintenance to Centre buildings and grounds to ensure a safe environment.
- Responsible for ensuring compliance with the Health and Safety requirements of Essex County Council.
- Specific individual and shared targets and objectives are defined annually within the performance management framework.
- 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.
- Knowledge of outdoor and residential education with ability to develop skills within 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 that has been delivered.
- Experience of establishing and maintaining a safe environment for the specific activity.
- 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.
Year-on-year we have summer staff return to work for another season with us, and opportunities for longer contracts do become available. Some staff may have the opportunity to complete nationally recognised qualifications.
Seasonal Outdoor Activity Instructors 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
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, check out Essex Outdoors' website and social media. Familiarise yourself with their activities and values so you can show them you're genuinely interested in being part of the team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a friend or in front of the mirror. Think about how your skills and experiences relate to the role of an Outdoor Activity Instructor, and be ready to share specific examples.
✨Tip Number 3
Dress the part! Even though it’s an outdoor role, showing up looking smart and professional can make a great first impression. Plus, it shows you take the opportunity seriously and are ready to represent Essex Outdoors.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm for the position and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Seasonal Outdoor Activity Instructors
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Outdoors: When writing your application, let us see your enthusiasm for outdoor activities! Share any relevant experiences or hobbies that showcase your love for nature and working with children. We want to know why you’re excited about this role!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to fit the job description. Highlight any qualifications or experiences that align with what we’re looking for, especially in outdoor education and safety. This helps us see how you’d be a great fit for our team!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role. We appreciate applications that are easy to read and get straight to the good stuff!
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 the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Essex County Council
✨Know Your Activities
Familiarise yourself with the outdoor activities you'll be instructing. Research the specific skills and safety protocols related to sailing, paddle sports, and other activities mentioned in the job description. This will show your enthusiasm and preparedness during the interview.
✨Show Your Passion for Teaching
Demonstrate your ability to engage and motivate young people. Share examples from your past experiences where you successfully led groups or taught skills. Highlight your communication skills and how you can relate to both children and adults.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Prepare for questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and how you would handle various situations, such as ensuring safety during an activity or managing a group of children. Think of specific scenarios and how you would approach them.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, ask questions that show your interest in the role and the organisation. Inquire about the training process, team dynamics, or how they measure the success of their outdoor programmes. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
