At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure safety at our swimming pool and assist in daily operations of the sports centre.
- Company: Join Move Imperial at Ethos, a top-notch sports centre in South Kensington.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 41 days off, and access to on-site leisure facilities.
- Other info: Flexible working policy and opportunities for career growth in a supportive culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while working in a fun, dynamic environment with diverse people.
- Qualifications: Must have a valid lifeguard qualification and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
Move Imperial is seeking a Recreation Assistant to join the team at Ethos, our state‑of‑the‑art sports centre in the heart of South Kensington. The centre incorporates a wide variety of sports facilities, including a swimming pool, sports hall, climbing wall, fitness studios and gyms. Through day‑to‑day operation of Ethos’ facilities, the successful candidate will help Imperial students, staff and members of the local community to access the centre in a way that is safe, empowering and fun.
What you would be doing
- The post holder will be responsible for lifeguarding the centre’s 25‑metre swimming pool. You will ensure the safety of all users of the pool and surrounding areas, including all ancillary wet‑side facilities, through direct supervision, control and managing of all people in and around the pool facilities in line with legislation and local operating procedures.
- You will also be required to assist in all aspects of the day‑to‑day operation of the Sports Centre facilities, sports development programmes and customer services in line with Imperial policies to provide an efficient quality service.
- There will be opportunities to carry out instructional or coaching courses, dependent on qualifications and experience.
What we are looking for
- Experience of working as a lifeguard (you must hold a valid RLSS NPLQ award or equivalent) and knowledge of the safe operation and maintenance of swimming pools.
- Experience of working in a higher education environment.
- Good general knowledge of working within leisure facilities, such as sports halls, climbing walls and gymnasiums, and the equipment associated with these.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work with team members and prioritise tasks in a dynamic customer‑service environment.
- A friendly and approachable manner, with the ability to serve a wide variety of customers effectively.
- Readiness to work a shift pattern (5 days out of 7 between the hours of 6:30 and 22:30, 37 hours per week).
What we can offer you
- The opportunity to grow within a department that values and nurtures talent, and to make an impact through our Sport and Activity Strategy.
- A reduced rate in our sports centre.
- The opportunity to continue your career at a world‑leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.
- Benefit from sector‑leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days off a year and generous pension schemes).
- Get access to a range of workplace benefits including a flexible working policy from day 1, generous family leave packages, on‑site leisure facilities and a cycle‑to‑work scheme.
- Interest‑free season ticket loan schemes for travel.
- Be part of a diverse, inclusive, and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources designed to support your personal and professional wellbeing.
Our Culture
We work towards equality of opportunity, to eliminating discrimination, and to creating an inclusive working environment for all. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, communities and industries, and are committed to employing a team that has diverse skills, experiences and abilities.
Closing Date: Midnight on Tuesday, 16 June 2026
Recreation Assistant employer: SONICOM
Move Imperial is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture at Ethos, our cutting-edge sports centre in South Kensington. Employees benefit from a supportive environment that prioritises personal and professional growth, alongside competitive remuneration packages, generous leave, and access to top-notch facilities. Join us to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a diverse and inclusive workplace that values every team member's contribution.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Recreation Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team! Before your interview, do a bit of research on the people who work at Ethos. Follow them on social media, engage with their posts, and show genuine interest in what they do. This will help you connect during the interview and demonstrate that you're keen to be part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your lifeguarding skills! Make sure you're up to date with your RLSS NPLQ award and can confidently discuss your experience. You might even want to do a mock scenario with a friend to brush up on your emergency response skills. Being prepared will show that you take the role seriously.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your customer service skills! Think of examples from your past experiences where you've gone above and beyond for customers. The role is all about creating a fun and safe environment, so highlight how you can contribute to that vibe at Ethos.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing applications come directly from our site. It shows you're genuinely interested in being part of our team. Plus, it makes it easier for us to keep track of your application and get back to you quickly!
We think you need these skills to ace Recreation Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lifeguard Skills:Make sure to highlight your lifeguarding experience and any relevant qualifications, like your RLSS NPLQ award. We want to see how your skills can keep our swimming pool safe and fun for everyone!
Be Personable:Since you'll be interacting with a diverse range of customers, let your friendly and approachable nature shine through in your application. We love candidates who can connect with people and create a welcoming atmosphere.
Tailor Your Application:Take a moment to read through the job description and align your experiences with what we're looking for. Show us how your background in leisure facilities and customer service makes you the perfect fit for our team at Ethos.
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 get you one step closer to joining our amazing team.
How to prepare for a job interview at SONICOM
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your lifeguarding knowledge and the safe operation of swimming pools. Familiarise yourself with the RLSS NPLQ award requirements and any relevant legislation. This will show that you're serious about safety and understand the responsibilities that come with the role.
✨Show Off Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be working in a dynamic customer-service environment, practice how you communicate. Think of examples where you've effectively interacted with customers or team members. Being friendly and approachable is key, so let your personality shine through!
✨Get to Know Ethos
Research the Ethos sports centre and its facilities. Understand what makes it unique and how it serves the community. This will help you tailor your answers during the interview and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
✨Be Ready for Shift Patterns
Since the job requires flexibility with shift patterns, be prepared to discuss your availability. Show that you're willing to adapt and can manage your time effectively. This will reassure them that you're committed to the role and can handle the demands of the position.
