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- Tasks: Lead a dynamic outdoor education centre and inspire young people through adventurous activities.
- Company: Notts Outdoors, a vibrant hub for outdoor and environmental education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive team, and the chance to shape outdoor learning experiences.
- Why this job: Make a lasting impact on young people's lives while enjoying the great outdoors.
- Qualifications: Degree and 3 years’ management experience in outdoor education required.
- Other info: Join a fun, dedicated team and enjoy excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 33900 - 44000 £ per year.
Work Base: The Mill Adventure Base, Sutton in Ashfield, NG17 4PA
Salary: £39,152 - £44,075 per annum
Type of vacancy: Permanent
Work pattern: Full Time including some weekends
Hours per week: 37
Working Arrangements: Office Based
The Children and Families Department takes a strengths‑based approach to working with each other, children, young people and families, and our partner agencies. We call this 'Our Nottinghamshire Approach'.
Are you ready to lead an outstanding dynamic, diverse and well established urban outdoor education centre? Notts Outdoors is seeking an inspiring and passionate Head of Centre to lead The Mill Adventure Base, a thriving hub for outdoor and environmental education. With over 10,000 visitors annually and a diverse range of adventurous activities, this is a unique opportunity to shape the future of outdoor learning in Nottinghamshire and beyond.
What You'll Do:
- Provide visionary leadership and impactful management of the centre
- Drive innovation across programmes including climbing, caving, watersports, and environmental education
- Ensure financial sustainability through budget control and income generation
- Lead a passionate, skilled and highly motivated team of outdoor professionals and seasonal staff
- Maintain the highest standards of safety, safeguarding, and quality
- Develop strategic partnerships and a dynamic marketing plan
- Oversee the on-site Mill Waters Heritage Centre and residential facilities
What We're Looking For:
- A degree or equivalent, with at least 3 years’ management experience in outdoor education
- Experience and qualifications across outdoor learning, especially in canoeing, sailing, climbing, hill walking and high ropes activities
- Proven ability in budget and resource management
- Excellent communication, organisational, and mentoring skills
- Passion for delivering high‑quality experiences to young people
Why Join Us?
- Lead a modern, well‑resourced centre across 7.32 acres of adventure
- Be part of a highly dedicated and fun team, shaping outdoor education across the county
- Make a lasting impact in which young people Get outdoors, Have fun and Make memories for a lifetime!
Appointment to this post is subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service check. Disabled applicants who meet the essential shortlisting requirements will be guaranteed an interview. A job share scheme is available for all full‑time posts: both permanent and temporary, unless otherwise stated. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and we expect all staff to share this commitment and undergo appropriate checks. Nottinghamshire County Council strives to ensure that it goes beyond the requirements of the Equalities Act and prides itself on being accredited as a Disability Confident Leader Organisation. Therefore, the County Council encourages applications from all, irrespective of gender, marital status, disability, race, religion, belief, pregnancy and maternity status, age or sexual orientation.
Head of Centre employer: Nottinghamshire County Council
Contact Detail:
Nottinghamshire County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Centre
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Research Notts Outdoors and The Mill Adventure Base. Understand their values, mission, and the kind of outdoor experiences they offer. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing the Head of Centre role. Personal connections can give you an edge in the application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to leadership and outdoor education. Think about how you can demonstrate your management experience and passion for outdoor learning. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or family to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at The Mill Adventure Base. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Centre
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for outdoor education shine through! We want to see how your passion aligns with our mission at The Mill Adventure Base.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in outdoor education and management. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your skills in leading teams and driving innovative programmes.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key achievements and qualifications stand out without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Nottinghamshire County Council
✨Know Your Outdoor Education Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of outdoor education, especially in areas like canoeing, climbing, and environmental education. Be ready to discuss your experience and how it aligns with the centre's mission to provide high-quality experiences for young people.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership style and how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Think about times when you've driven innovation or improved programmes, as this role requires a visionary leader who can inspire and motivate a diverse team.
✨Financial Savvy is Key
Since financial sustainability is crucial for this position, be prepared to discuss your experience with budget management and income generation. Bring specific examples of how you've successfully controlled budgets or generated additional funding in previous roles.
✨Connect with Their Values
Familiarise yourself with 'Our Nottinghamshire Approach' and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to this strengths-based approach. Show your passion for outdoor education and how you plan to make a lasting impact on the community and the young people they serve.
