Program Leader - Europe Gap Year

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.

• 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.

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

• 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.

• 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.

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.

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.