At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire a team while delivering exciting outdoor activities for all ages.
- Company: Join the vibrant Leeds Sailing and Activity Centre team.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, flexible working, and great career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives through outdoor adventures.
- Qualifications: Must have RYA Senior Dinghy/Windsurf Instructor and BC Paddlesport qualifications.
- Other info: Embrace a dynamic role with a focus on safety and fun!
The predicted salary is between 27000 - 33000 £ per year.
Salary: C3 £32,061 - £33,699
Hours: 37
Contract: 6-month Temporary Contract
Location: Leeds Sailing and Activity Centre (LSAC)
As a Senior Instructor you’ll thrive on delivering our wide-ranging high quality outdoor activity programme while managing and training a small and energetic team of delivery instructors.
About you
Essential qualifications:
- RYA Senior Dinghy/Windsurf Instructor or higher
- British Canoeing Paddlesport Sheltered Water Coach or higher
- First Aid qualification
- Extensive experience and knowledge of outdoor activities (including any additional relevant qualifications)
Additional combinations considered:
- RYA Senior Dinghy/Windsurf Instructor or higher + Paddlesport Instructor/Leader Qualification
- BC Paddlesport Sheltered Water Coach or higher + RYA Dinghy/Start Windsurf Instructor/Assistant Instructor
About the role
LSAC is looking for a highly motivated individual to manage and lead our team of instructors, expand our service, and maintain the highest standards of customer satisfaction, health and safety, and quality service.
Responsibilities
- Promote and deliver a safe, high‑quality outdoor activity programme for all ages and abilities, in partnership with the Centre Manager.
- Design, plan and deliver coaching sessions in accordance with the City Council and National Governing Body Codes of Conduct.
- Advise on technical developments, operational issues, and maintain liaison with local, regional and national governing bodies.
- Administer the Leeds Sailing and Activity Centre: registers, risk assessments, staff records, bookings, payments, and maintenance of equipment.
- Plan and deliver staff training, including inductions, technical advisor sign‑offs, and CPD.
- Allocate and co‑ordinate staff, mentor coaches and volunteers, and support their professional development.
- Prepare and implement an annual maintenance programme for all equipment.
- Support budgeting and financial regulation compliance, and carry out all post accountabilities in line with council policies.
Qualifications
Essential:
- RYA Senior Dinghy/Windsurf Instructor (or higher)
- BC Paddlesport Sheltered Water Coach (or higher)
- First Aid Qualification
Desirable:
- RYA Powerboat Instructor, SUP coach, Bell Boat Helm, Archery GB Instructor Award, British Rowing Session Instructor (or higher)
Knowledge of outdoor activity pathways, risk assessment and health & safety guidelines, child protection and welfare issues.
What we offer you
- A competitive salary and annual leave entitlements plus statutory holidays
- Membership of the West Yorkshire Pension Fund with generous employer contributions
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements (subject to service requirements)
- A clear career pathway and continuing professional development opportunities
- Staff benefits to support wellbeing and financial flexibility
How to apply
Please complete the online application form and ensure you complete all sections before submission. For further assistance, contact Adam‑Peter Gair, Leeds Sailing and Activity Centre Manager.
Post dates: April to October (6 months).
Discretionary checks & policies
Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks will be carried out for preferred candidates. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and actively seek a diverse range of applicants including women, carers, veterans, LGBT+ individuals, people of ethnically diverse backgrounds, disabled and care experienced people.
Right to work: Applicants must evidence their right to work in the UK prior to commencing employment, either as a UK or Irish citizen, under the EU Settlement scheme, or holding a relevant work visa.
Senior Instructor in Leeds employer: Leeds City Council
Contact Detail:
Leeds City Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Instructor in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Leeds Sailing and Activity Centre, their values, and their outdoor programmes. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former instructors on LinkedIn or at local events. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you when it comes to hiring decisions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for practical assessments! As a Senior Instructor, you’ll likely need to demonstrate your skills. Brush up on your outdoor activity techniques and be ready to showcase your coaching abilities during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and serious about the role. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Instructor in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Qualifications: Make sure to highlight your essential qualifications like the RYA Senior Dinghy/Windsurf Instructor or BC Paddlesport Sheltered Water Coach. We want to see how your skills match up with what we're looking for, so don’t hold back!
Tailor Your Application: Take a moment to customise your application to fit the role of Senior Instructor. Mention specific experiences that relate to managing teams and delivering outdoor activities, as this will show us you’re the right fit for our energetic environment.
Be Clear and Concise: When filling out the application form, keep your answers clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforwardness, so avoid fluff and get straight to the good stuff about your experience and skills.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it makes the whole process smoother for everyone involved.
How to prepare for a job interview at Leeds City Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your outdoor activity qualifications and experience. Be ready to discuss your RYA and British Canoeing certifications in detail, as well as any specific outdoor activities you've led. This shows you're not just qualified, but passionate about what you do.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Senior Instructor, you'll be managing a team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, whether it's through training sessions or mentoring. Highlight your ability to motivate others and maintain high standards in safety and service.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-life situations. Think about potential challenges you might face at LSAC, like handling a safety issue during an activity, and prepare your responses. This will demonstrate your critical thinking and readiness for the role.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Don't forget that interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the centre's programmes, team dynamics, and future plans. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.