At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and coordinate exciting watersports training for young people at Welsh Harp Boat Station.
- Company: Join the Marine Society & Sea Cadets, a vibrant charity dedicated to youth development.
- Benefits: Enjoy 51 days of paid holiday, private medical insurance, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to inclusivity and safeguarding young people.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives through nautical adventure and mentorship.
- Qualifications: Must have RYA Senior Dinghy Instructor certification and experience in delivering high-quality boating activities.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Location: Welsh Harp Boat Station, London, NW9 8SA
Contract: Full time, fixed term until 13 December 2026
Salary: Competitive
Closing Date: 14 June 2026 (Position may close earlier if right candidate comes forward)
Are you a Chief Instructor looking for a new opportunity? The Marine Society & Sea Cadets (MSSC) is the leading maritime charity for youth development and lifelong learning. We are a vibrant and growing charity inspiring young people to achieve their potential through challenge and nautical adventure, while also enabling seafarers and maritime professionals to realise their potential through learning and career development.
We are currently looking for a Chief Instructor to join our team.
About the role
We are seeking a Chief Instructor who will deliver and coordinate high quality training at our training facility at Sea Cadets Welsh Harp Boat Station, NW9 8SA. This opportunity would suit an experienced watersports professional with a range of knowledge across the industry having a sound grasp of managing, developing and mentoring teams of both employed and volunteer staff. This is an exciting opportunity and will see the successful applicant deliver and oversee sailing, windsurfing, powerboating, rowing and Paddlesport while supporting our growing number of boating Instructor qualified volunteers. Hours of work each week will be variable, but will average approximately 44 hours. The post can be demanding and working hours are as determined by the training programme, which will include evening and weekend working.
Responsibilities
- To act as Chief Instructor at the boat station.
- Develop and promote an activity programme for our young people.
- Manage the delivery of our all year-round activity programme.
- Monitor standards of instruction and support the development of instructors.
- To be a role model and mentor for our Cadets and Volunteers.
- To be involved in the delivery of boating across the charity.
- To be a technical advisor that our Volunteers can turn to for advice and guidance.
Qualifications
- RYA Senior Dinghy Instructor
- BC Paddlesport Instructor or higher
- Expert level knowledge and ability across a range of water sport disciplines.
- A demonstrable background in the delivery of high-quality boating activities to a wide client base.
- A strong awareness of health and safety policy and regulation.
- Facilities management experience.
Desirable
- Experience in working with young people and volunteers.
- Experience in developing new client relationships.
- Experience across a range watersports industry sectors.
- RYA Powerboat Instructor
- RYA Windsurfing Instructor
Benefits
- 51 working days paid holiday per annum, pro rata, this includes public and bank holidays observed in England and Wales.
- Hybrid working for many roles.
- Volunteering Leave.
- Life assurance (4x salary).
- Private medical insurance.
- Generous pension (employer contribution up to 10%).
- Cycle to work scheme and Season Ticket Loan.
- Access to the Marine Society Digital Library.
- Wellbeing portal and EAP with 121 counselling.
- Employee development opportunities.
MSSC positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates from all backgrounds. Equity, diversity, and inclusion really matters to us, so we can best serve our beneficiaries from every community. We work to ensure a fair and consistent recruitment process and aim to be a charity where diversity of experience, identity and skills are valued and welcomed. MSSC is an equal opportunities employer.
We recognise our responsibilities to safeguard and protect the young people and vulnerable adults with whom we work. We do all we can to promote their health, safety and wellbeing, and we expect our staff to share this commitment and work in line with safeguarding policy, the MSSC’s values and ethos of inclusivity.
All successful applicants are required to attend safeguarding training and undergo pre-employment checks including a criminal record check.
Chief Instructor - Welsh Harp Boat Station employer: MSSC
The Marine Society & Sea Cadets (MSSC) is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises youth development and lifelong learning at the picturesque Welsh Harp Boat Station in London. With generous benefits including 51 days of paid holiday, private medical insurance, and a strong commitment to employee development, MSSC fosters an inclusive environment where staff can thrive while making a meaningful impact on the lives of young people through nautical adventure and challenge.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Instructor - Welsh Harp Boat Station
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the watersports community and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in local events or workshops related to boating and watersports. This not only boosts your visibility but also shows your commitment to the industry. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential employers face-to-face!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of social media! Follow organisations like MSSC and engage with their posts. Share your own experiences and insights in the watersports field to showcase your expertise and passion.
✨Tip Number 4
When you find a role you fancy, apply through our website! Tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills, especially those that align with the Chief Instructor position. Show us why you’re the perfect fit!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Instructor - Welsh Harp Boat Station
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for watersports and youth development shine through. We want to see how your experiences align with our mission at MSSC, so don’t hold back on sharing your journey!
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Chief Instructor role. Highlight relevant qualifications like your RYA Senior Dinghy Instructor and any experience managing teams. We love seeing how your skills can contribute to our vibrant community.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read. Remember, we’re looking for specific examples of your achievements in the watersports industry!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at MSSC
✨Know Your Watersports Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of various watersport disciplines like sailing, windsurfing, and powerboating. Be ready to discuss your experience and how you've managed teams in these areas. The interviewers will want to see that you can not only instruct but also inspire others.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Chief Instructor, you'll be leading both staff and volunteers. Prepare examples of how you've successfully mentored others or developed training programmes. Highlight any specific challenges you've faced and how you overcame them to demonstrate your leadership capabilities.
✨Emphasise Safety and Compliance
Given the nature of the role, it's crucial to convey your understanding of health and safety regulations. Be prepared to discuss how you've implemented safety measures in past roles and how you plan to maintain high standards at the Welsh Harp Boat Station.
✨Connect with Their Vision
Research the Marine Society & Sea Cadets' mission and values. During the interview, express your enthusiasm for their vision of youth development through nautical adventure. Show them that you're not just looking for a job, but that you're genuinely passionate about making a difference in young people's lives.
