At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and mentor young adults on a transformative gap year programme.
- Company: Join Europe Gap Year, a passionate team making a difference.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, travel opportunities, and potential for permanent role.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while exploring Northern Ireland and Scotland.
- Qualifications: Experience with young adults and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Gap Year Program Leader (Fixed-Term) Contract: Fixed-term contract (September 2026 – December 2026) Location: Portrush, Northern Ireland, with approximately three weeks of travel throughout Scotland Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience Hours: Must be able to work flexible hours Reports To: Program Manager
About the Role
Europe Gap Year is seeking an enthusiastic, confident and supportive Program Leader to join our team for a four-month fixed-term contract from September to December 2026. This is a hands-on leadership role at the heart of our gap year programme, supporting and mentoring young adults as they participate in a unique combination of work experience, travel and personal development. As Program Leader, you will be responsible for creating a positive, safe and engaging environment while ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of the programme. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working with young adults, thrives in a dynamic environment and is passionate about helping others build confidence, independence and life skills. There is the opportunity for this position to be extended or develop into a permanent full-time role following the initial contract.
Key Responsibilities
- Programme Delivery
- Assist in leading the day-to-day delivery of the programme, ensuring activities and schedules run smoothly.
- Facilitate group discussions, workshops and reflection sessions.
- Coordinate transport, accommodation and programme logistics alongside the Programme Manager.
- Ensure activities are delivered safely, efficiently and to a high standard.
- Participant Support
- Act as a point of contact for programme participants.
- Provide guidance, encouragement and pastoral support throughout the programme.
- Foster a positive, inclusive and respectful group environment.
- Address participant concerns and help resolve issues in a calm and professional manner.
- Leadership and Mentoring
- Inspire participants to engage fully with every aspect of the programme.
- Lead by example through professionalism, integrity and enthusiasm.
- Encourage personal growth by providing constructive feedback and ongoing support.
- Help participants develop confidence, resilience and independence.
- Safety and Welfare
- Ensure the safety and wellbeing of participants at all times.
- Follow safeguarding procedures and company policies.
- Respond calmly and effectively to emergencies or unexpected situations.
- Complete incident reports and communicate any concerns promptly to the Programme Manager.
- Cultural and Travel Experience
- Support participants in gaining a deeper appreciation of the places they visit.
- Lead and participate in activities throughout Northern Ireland and during approximately three weeks of travel in Scotland.
- Encourage teamwork, cultural awareness and respectful engagement with local communities.
- Partnership and Representation
- Build positive relationships with accommodation providers, activity partners and local organisations.
- Represent Europe Gap Year professionally at all times.
Skills and Experience
We're looking for someone who enjoys working with young adults and has experience leading, mentoring or supporting groups in a structured environment. Relevant experience may include:
- Schools or colleges
- Sports coaching or sports leadership
- Youth work
- Outdoor education
- Residential camps
- Community organisations
- Mentoring or pastoral care
- Other roles involving the supervision and development of young adults
Essential Skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong leadership and organisational abilities.
- Calm under pressure with effective problem-solving skills.
- A positive, proactive and adaptable attitude.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a small team.
- Genuine enthusiasm for helping young adults develop confidence and independence.
Essential Requirements
- Experience working with young adults (approximately 18–24 years old).
- Full, valid driving licence.
- Aged 25 or over (required to meet the insurance conditions of the vehicle hire provider used during programme travel).
- Legal right to work in the United Kingdom.
- Willingness to travel and stay away from home for the duration of the programme, including approximately three weeks in Scotland.
- Willingness to complete First Aid training if not already qualified.
- Willingness to undergo an Enhanced AccessNI check, or already hold a current Enhanced AccessNI certificate suitable for the role.
- Fluent English.
Why Join Europe Gap Year?
This is an opportunity to make a genuine impact on the lives of young adults during one of the most exciting and transformative experiences of their lives. You'll join a passionate and supportive team, travel throughout Northern Ireland and Scotland, and play a key role in creating an unforgettable programme that builds confidence, independence and lifelong friendships. For the right candidate, there is the opportunity for this fixed-term role to develop into a longer-term or permanent position.
To Apply
Please send your CV and a covering letter outlining your relevant experience and why you would be a great fit for the role to office@europegapyear.com. Please include a short cover letter explaining why this role appeals to you and why you believe you'd be a great fit. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, so early applications are encouraged. Please note: Appointment to this role is subject to satisfactory references and the successful completion of an Enhanced AccessNI check.
Program leader - Europe Gap Year in Portrush employer: Europe Gap Year
Europe Gap Year is an exceptional employer that offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young adults during their transformative gap year experience. With a supportive and passionate team, employees can expect a dynamic work culture that fosters personal growth, flexibility, and the chance to travel throughout Northern Ireland and Scotland. The role of Program Leader not only allows for hands-on leadership but also opens doors for potential long-term career development within the organisation.
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