At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting outdoor activities for kids and adults while having fun in nature.
- Company: Join Essex Outdoors, a vibrant team dedicated to adventure and learning.
- Benefits: Earn £25,081 per annum with full training and subsidised meals.
- Other info: Flexible hours, potential for longer contracts, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a difference in young people's lives while enjoying the great outdoors.
- Qualifications: No experience needed; just bring your enthusiasm and willingness to learn!
The predicted salary is between 21000 - 30000 € per year.
About The Role
Seasonal Outdoor Activity Instructors Fixed Term, Full Time £25,081 per annum Location: Danbury Working Style: Fixed-base worker Closing Date: 14/02/2026
Essex Outdoors' Centres are taking applications for Seasonal Instructors for 2026. If you are shortlisted you will be invited to a selection day, where you will meet our staff and show us what you can do. If you are successful, you will complete our core and centre-based training programme and start your adventure with us.
As a Seasonal 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.
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 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
- 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
- You will be expected to 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
Our centre: Danbury – A large centre set on a 70-acre site of beautiful countryside and woodlands. Danbury runs a large range of both land-based and water-based activities.
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend a selection day – an opportunity to meet staff from the centres and to showcase some of your skills! If then selected you’ll complete our core and centre-based training programme including activity delivery, first aid, manual handling, safeguarding and disability awareness.
How to apply?
If you would like to apply for this position you will need an up-to-date CV and a personal statement explaining your interest in the role the following information:
- Availability - What is your earliest start date after 1st April 2026?
- Commitments - Please provide the dates of any commitments that mean you are not available to work between April and September 2026, for example booked holiday, university, exams etc.
Accountabilities
- 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.
The Experience You Will Bring
- Possesses 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.
- Good 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.
Why Essex?
As one of the largest and most dynamic UK local authorities, Essex offers a stimulating public service environment. Covering over 1,420 square miles and serving 1.8 million residents, we’re committed to transformational change and delivering better quality at lower cost.
Disability and Veterans
Essex County Council is proud to be a Disability Confident Leader. We’re committed to interview all disabled applicants who choose to apply under our Job Interview Scheme if they meet the minimum requirements of the job.
Employee benefits and support
Once you’ve secured your role within Essex County Council you will receive many great employee benefits, including support for unpaid carers and flexible working arrangements to accommodate their needs.
Ethics and conduct
At Essex County Council, we value integrity and ethical behaviour. We kindly ask that you embrace our code of conduct and the Nolan principles, including throughout the recruitment process.
Seasonal Outdoor Activity Instructors in Danbury employer: Essex
Essex Outdoors is an exceptional employer, offering Seasonal Outdoor Activity Instructors the chance to work in a stunning 70-acre countryside setting at Danbury. With a strong commitment to employee development through comprehensive training and opportunities for nationally recognised qualifications, staff enjoy a supportive work culture that values flexibility and teamwork. Additionally, the provision of subsidised meals and accommodation packages enhances the overall experience, making it a rewarding environment for those passionate about outdoor education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Seasonal Outdoor Activity Instructors in 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 passion for outdoor activities shine through.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Chat with current instructors or anyone in the outdoor activity scene. They might have insider tips or even know someone involved in the hiring process. Plus, it’s a great way to get a feel for the team culture at Essex Outdoors.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare some questions for the interviewers. Show them you’re genuinely interested in the role and the organisation. Ask about the training programme or what a typical day looks like for an instructor. It’ll help you stand out as a thoughtful candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and the application process right there. Let’s get you on board for an exciting season!
We think you need these skills to ace Seasonal Outdoor Activity Instructors in Danbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Standout CV:Make sure your CV is up-to-date and highlights your relevant experience. We want to see what makes you unique, so don’t hold back on showcasing your outdoor skills and any qualifications you have!
Personal Statement Magic:Your personal statement is your chance to shine! Explain why you're excited about the role and how your experiences align with what we’re looking for. Keep it genuine and let your passion for outdoor activities come through.
Be Clear About Availability:When you apply, be upfront about your availability. Let us know your earliest start date and any commitments that might affect your schedule between April and September 2026. This helps us plan better!
Apply Through Our Website:Remember, the best way to apply is through our website, not the red button! Following the right process shows us you’re detail-oriented and ready to join our team of adventurous instructors.
How to prepare for a job interview at Essex
✨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 equipment if possible, and don’t hesitate to share your previous experiences leading activities. This is your chance to shine!
✨Communicate Effectively
Practice clear and engaging communication. You'll be working with children and adults alike, so being able to motivate and relate to them is key. Think about examples from your past where you've successfully communicated in a group setting.
✨Be Ready for Teamwork
Emphasise your ability to work as part of a team. The role involves collaboration with other instructors, so share experiences where you’ve contributed to a team environment, whether in outdoor settings or other jobs.
