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 impact by inspiring young people through nautical adventures and skill development.
- Qualifications: Must hold RYA Senior Dinghy Instructor and have strong watersports knowledge.
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.
Thousands of young people take part in Sea Cadets activity every week. We want to reach thousands more. We have a strong vision and are on the cusp of rolling out a new multi-year growth strategy to meet the growing demand for what we provide for young people. We aim to equip them to achieve their potential and thrive in a rapidly changing world. We are immensely proud of the breadth, quality and safety of activities we offer to young people.
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. The boat station delivers key, life changing, experiences to a wide ranging group and client base. 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. The Welsh Harp Boat Station is one of eight regional boat stations operated by the charity, the successful candidate will work as part of the charities Inshore Boating team.
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: We are investing in our employees' development and have an annual calendar of learning and development opportunities, designed to support employees to develop into their roles and stretch them to achieve their full potential.
If you are interested in this Chief Instructor vacancy, please apply now!
Additional Information
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. We adhere to safer recruitment practices and therefore employment is subject to detailed pre-employment checks for successful candidates, including references and criminal disclosure checks and the completion of a disclosure questionnaire. 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 in London 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 in London
✨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 a Chief Instructor role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word 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 and fellow enthusiasts!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of social media! Follow organisations like the Marine Society & Sea Cadets and engage with their posts. Share your own experiences and insights in watersports to showcase your expertise and passion.
✨Tip Number 4
When you find a role that excites you, apply through our website! Tailor your application to highlight your experience in managing and mentoring teams, as well as your technical skills in various watersport disciplines. Show us why you’re the perfect fit!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Instructor - Welsh Harp Boat Station in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for watersports and youth development! Share personal stories or experiences that highlight why you're the perfect fit for the Chief Instructor role.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. We want to see how your background aligns with our mission at MSSC!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re excited about this opportunity and how you can contribute to our team at Welsh Harp Boat Station.
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 fantastic opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at MSSC
✨Know Your Watersports Inside Out
As a Chief Instructor, you'll need to demonstrate your expert knowledge across various watersport disciplines. Brush up on the latest techniques and safety regulations, and be ready to discuss how you've applied this knowledge in past roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role involves managing and mentoring both staff and volunteers. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams, developed training programmes, and supported others in their growth. Highlight your ability to inspire and motivate!
✨Understand the Charity's Vision
Familiarise yourself with the Marine Society & Sea Cadets' mission and values. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their goal of inspiring young people through nautical adventure.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities in real-life situations. Think about challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you overcame them, especially in high-pressure environments.
