JCA 2027 Apprentice Activity Instructor

Job Opportunity: JCA Apprentice Activity Instructor

Location: Residential position based at Condover Hall, Shrewsbury

Contract Type: Fixed-Term Apprentice Contract from 4/1/2027 to 14/11/2027

Working Hours: Full-time 40 hours per week, including evenings & weekends

Reports To: Activity Manager

About JCA, Condover Hall

At JCA, we believe in creating unforgettable experiences through adventure, teamwork, and hospitality. Each year, thousands of guests stay with us for residential activity breaks, and our Activities team plays a key role in ensuring every guest enjoys an adventure filled and safe trip. Condover Hall is a Grade I listed Elizabethan manor house surrounded by extensive grounds and located just outside Shrewsbury.

What is an Outdoor Activity Apprenticeship?

If a traditional 9 to 5 office job isn't for you, this apprenticeship could be the perfect fit. Over 10 months, JCA will provide all the training, support and industry-recognised qualifications you need to become a confident Activity Instructor and build a career in the outdoor industry. JCA works in partnership with Shrewsbury College, combining practical, hands-on experience with structured learning and support. With over 40 activities on offer, no two days are the same. You'll be trained to deliver a wide range of activities, leading groups through exciting experiences and helping them grow in confidence while creating unforgettable memories. On completion, you'll achieve a Level 3 qualification in Outdoor Activity Leadership, with opportunities to gain additional qualifications including Fencing Leader, FSRT & Paddle Sports Instructor, GB Archery, First Aid and NPLQ. We also offer on-site accommodation, giving you a fully immersive experience with no daily commute. You'll make lifelong friends, develop valuable skills and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Benefits:

• Achieve your level 3 qualification in Outdoor Activity Leadership alongside other qualifications
• Support with passing Functional Skills if required
• Earn as you learn with the £8 per hour National Apprentice Wage
• Staff events and Friends & Family activity days
• Employee & student discounts
• Free DBS check
• On-site shared accommodation provided at a discounted monthly deduction
• Free meals
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme
• Use of the facilities
• Further opportunities

The Role: Apprentice Activity Instructor

You will play a central role in each group's stay, delivering safe, fun and engaging activity sessions in a residential setting. You'll help create memorable experiences for guests, ensuring every session is delivered with enthusiasm, professionalism and care.

Key Responsibilities

• Activity Delivery & Quality: Deliver all activities to your group in line with JCA's standards. Adapt your delivery style to suit the needs, abilities, and dynamics of different guest groups. Ensure all activities are run safely, enthusiastically, and with a focus on guest engagement. Prepare and maintain equipment and activity bases to ensure readiness and safety.
• Safety & Compliance: Follow JCA's safety policies and operational guidelines during all sessions. Assist in the prevention, response, and reporting of incidents, accidents, and safeguarding concerns. Provide first aid support when required.
• Customer Experience: Create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all guests. Build rapport with groups to enhance their experience and encourage participation. Respond to guest queries and concerns professionally and empathetically. Support the collection of feedback to help improve future delivery.
• Team Collaboration: Work closely with fellow instructors and team leaders to ensure smooth daily operations. Attend training sessions and team briefings to stay informed and prepared. Support colleagues during busy periods and contribute to a positive team culture.

Essential skills & experience

No previous experience or qualifications are required as full training will be provided. All you need is a sense of adventure and a willingness to learn. You must be enthusiastic, passionate about the outdoors, and enjoy working with children and young people. Due to the nature of the role, applicants must be aged 18 or over. You must be comfortable undertaking training across all of our outdoor activities, some of which involve working at height and performance-based activities such as dance.

The recruitment process

Once we receive your application, a member of our team will be in touch to discuss the next steps. If eligible, you'll be invited to attend one of our recruitment weekends at Condover Hall, Shrewsbury. Please note that attendance at a recruitment event is a mandatory part of our selection process. As this role involves working with children, we follow safer recruiting practices. We are required to obtain references and an Enhanced DBS check prior to employment (we cover the cost and organise it for you). You will be required to provide referee details and a selection of ID documents such as a Passport or Full Birth Certificate.

Our Commitment to Inclusion

At JCA, we know that diverse teams deliver better results. We're building a culture where everyone feels welcome, respected, and supported to thrive. We're committed to equity, inclusivity, and tackling unconscious bias at every level of our organisation.