At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting activities and excursions for international students this summer.
- Company: Join Move Language Ahead, a leader in educational programmes.
- Benefits: Earn GBP 540 weekly plus holiday pay, with paid training and development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic role with flexible hours and the chance to work in various locations.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while having fun and gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Must have a UK passport and proven suitability to work with students under 18.
Job Type: Residential, Full-Time
Reports to: Centre Director/Activity Manager
DATES: June 27th to August 1st 2026
Possibility of extension in some centres
Country: United Kingdom
Location: London King’s, London Uxbridge, Reading, Guildford, Worcester, Dover, Oxford, Edinburgh
MISSION STATEMENT
Move Language Ahead is committed to providing industry leading safe, educational, and cultural programmes to students from around the world. Students, families, and agents from around the world have chosen MLA for the quality of our language courses, for the established trust of our brand, and for the meticulous attention to detail in our packages.
MLA WELFARE AND SAFEGUARDING STATEMENT
MLA is committed to the welfare and safeguarding of children, young people and adults at risk. All students should expect to feel safe within all areas of our seasonal programme. The primary concern at all times is the interests and safety of each student and the organisation takes all reasonable steps to protect children from harm, discrimination or degrading treatment and to uphold their rights.
POSITION OVERVIEW
Responsible for the activity and excursion programme for international students. Full-time summer role available from mid-June – mid-August. Represent MLA values 6 days per week with 1 day off per week.
Your role is about fostering a sense of excitement and connection among our diverse group of international students. Your days will be filled with creativity as you design and lead engaging activities and excursions, ensuring every moment is brimming with energy and enthusiasm. Working hours are variable and will be organised according to a rota in the centre.
REQUIREMENTS
- Essential: Must have a UK passport/right to work in the UK, and a valid DBS (England & Wales) or PVG (Scotland). Proven suitability to work with students under 18: at least 2 references.
- Desirable: Summer School experience in the UK or in Ireland. First Aid certificate. Sports/Coaching training. Volunteering experience. Involvement in active groups (e.g. scouts, trekking, sports, etc).
Person Specification
- Ability to develop positive relationships with students, earning their trust whilst maintaining proper professional boundaries.
- Excellent communication skills (verbal and interpersonal).
- Display absolute commitment to the highest standards of professional behaviour.
- Positive outlook, enthusiasm and creativity.
- Excellent organisational and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work long hours in a high-pressure environment.
- Passion for working with youth.
- Flexibility and adaptability.
SCHEDULE
As an Activity Leader, you’ll enjoy a dynamic and flexible work schedule designed to meet the exciting demands of our programme. Shifts will vary across mornings, afternoons, evenings, and weekends, providing you with diverse working hours. Each staff member is contracted for up to 44 hours per week distributed Monday to Sunday with one full day off per week.
KEY POSITION ACCOUNTABILITIES
- Ensure adequate preparation and set up for on/offsite activities and excursions.
- Lead, supervise, motivate and engage students on activities and excursions.
- Pro-actively encourage the students to take part in planned activities both during the day and in the evenings.
- Assist in the organisation and preparation of a wide range of activities, excursions and pastoral care.
- Provide safety and welfare assistance to students.
COMPENSATION
Residential Activity Leaders GBP 540 weekly. Holiday Pay (12.07%) will be added to rates. Inclusive of holiday pay up to GBP 605 weekly. Housing deduction of GBP 9.10 per day will be applied for residential positions.
MLA REPUTATION & CODE OF CONDUCT
- Actively support MLA in its mission to provide top quality programmes.
- Comply with management requests to follow the guidelines of external organisations such as British Council.
- Wear your MLA uniform while on duty at all times and keep it clean and presentable.
- Develop a good rapport with the students and Group Leaders.
MLA EQUALITY STATEMENT
MLA Move Language Ahead is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to excellence through diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of age, gender, marital status, race, disability, sexual orientation or expression, religion, beliefs, or any other non-job-related criteria.
2026 UK Residential Activity Leader, Reading employer: MLA
Contact Detail:
MLA Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land 2026 UK Residential Activity Leader, Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Get your networking game on! Connect with people in the industry, attend events, and join relevant groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for interviews by doing mock sessions with friends or family. Focus on showcasing your enthusiasm for working with youth and your ability to create engaging activities.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings; reach out directly to organisations like MLA. Express your interest in the Activity Leader role and ask about potential opportunities.
✨Tip Number 4
Show off your creativity! When you get the chance, share ideas for activities or excursions that could enhance the student experience. This will demonstrate your passion and commitment to the role.
We think you need these skills to ace 2026 UK Residential Activity Leader, Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm for working with students and leading activities.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience. If you've worked with young people or have a background in sports or coaching, shout about it! We love seeing how your skills fit with our mission.
Show Your Passion: We’re looking for candidates who are genuinely excited about creating fun and engaging experiences for students. Share any creative ideas you have for activities or excursions in your application to stand out!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and can get back to you quickly. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at MLA
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you’re familiar with MLA’s mission and values. Understand what makes their programmes unique and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their commitment to student welfare and engagement.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
As an Activity Leader, energy and enthusiasm are key! During the interview, let your passion for working with youth shine through. Share examples of how you've engaged students in activities or created memorable experiences in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about how you would handle specific situations, especially regarding student safety and welfare. Think of scenarios where you’ve had to manage a group, resolve conflicts, or ensure safety during activities, and be ready to share those stories.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few questions prepared that show your interest in the role and the organisation. Ask about the types of activities you might lead or how they support staff development. This shows you’re serious about contributing to their mission.