At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and delivery of lifesaving training that impacts communities.
- Company: Join Surf Life Saving GB, a passionate community dedicated to saving lives.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, free clothing, and discounts with the Blue Light Card.
- Other info: Work in a hybrid role with trips to beautiful beaches and waterways.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by shaping lifesaving training for future generations.
- Qualifications: Experience in training management and a passion for blended learning.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
Build the Training that Saves Lives. Surf Life Saving GB is looking for a Head of Training to take ownership of the qualifications, courses and CPD that are the backbone of everything we do, from the skills needed to become a professional lifeguard to the CPD that helps a volunteer coach to develop the next generation of lifesavers.
Role: Head of Training
Contract: Permanent full-time (4 days per week will be considered)
Salary: £35,000 – £45,000
Place of Work: SLSGB HQ, Exeter, Devon.
Working Pattern: Hybrid, with one day per week in the office (Wednesday)
Reports to: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
About Surf Life Saving Great Britain: Surf Life Saving GB (SLSGB) exists to keep people safe on our coasts and waterways, uniting communities to save lives. With over 11,000 members nationwide and clubs from Aberdeen to St Ives, we deliver world‑class lifesaving training, qualifications and competitions across beach, surf and pool environments.
Why this role matters: Training is how SLSGB saves lives. It is how a child learns to stay safe around water, how a lifeguard makes a rescue, how an experienced coach stays up to date with the latest techniques, and how clubs from Aberdeen to St Ives maintain the standards that keep communities safe on our coastlines. As Head of Training, you will be responsible for every aspect of how that knowledge is designed, packaged and delivered.
Role Purpose: The Head of Training is responsible for the design, development, delivery and continuous improvement of all SLSGB training activity. This is a leadership role that will shape how SLSGB’s qualifications, courses and CPD are created and how they reach the thousands of volunteers, clubs, coaches and lifeguards who rely on them each year. The postholder will lead across four interconnected areas:
- Training design and development
- Content creation and quality assurance
- Coordination of training delivery through freelance, volunteer and Accredited Training Centre (ATC) networks
- Management of SLSGB’s training technology platform
Who we’re looking for:
- Someone who is motivated by our mission, who genuinely cares about the impact of great training on real people in real environments
- A training professional with a track record in qualification management
- A confident writer, content creator and quality assurer with an eye for detail and high standards
- A champion of blended learning, with a passion for implementing digital solutions
What we can offer you:
- Work alongside a dedicated, passionate community committed to saving lives
- Have genuine strategic impact – shaping how SLSGB develops for years to come
- Flexible, remote‑friendly working in the beautiful Southwest, with work trips to stunning beaches and waterways
- Surf Life Saving GB clothing
- Free office parking
- Blue Light Card, big brand discounts, free independent advice and counselling
How to apply: To apply, please submit a CV and a short covering statement (no more than two pages) outlining your relevant experience and why you are drawn to this role, to recruitment@slsgb.org.uk
Application deadline: Sunday 14th June 2026 (midnight)
Interviews will take place: w/c 22nd and 29th June 2026
References and checks: Appointments are subject to satisfactory references and DBS checks in line with SLSGB policy.
Head of Training in Devon employer: Surf Life Saving GB
Surf Life Saving GB is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on community safety through training and development. With a flexible working environment in the picturesque Southwest, employees benefit from a supportive culture that values passion and dedication, alongside opportunities for professional growth and strategic influence in shaping lifesaving training. Enjoy perks such as free office parking, discounts through the Blue Light Card, and the chance to work amidst stunning beaches and waterways.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Training in Devon
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the Surf Life Saving community or related fields. Attend events, join online forums, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let your enthusiasm for lifesaving training shine through. Share your ideas on how to improve training programmes and demonstrate that you’re not just looking for a job, but a mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching SLSGB’s current training initiatives. Think about how your skills can enhance their offerings. Bring fresh ideas to the table and be ready to discuss how you can make a real impact in the role.
✨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 the team at Surf Life Saving GB and contributing to our life-saving mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Training in Devon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Covering Statement:Your covering statement is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your relevant experience and explain why you're passionate about the role. Keep it concise, but let your enthusiasm for saving lives and training others come through.
Tailor Your CV:Don’t just send out the same CV for every application. Tailor it to reflect the skills and experiences that align with the Head of Training role. Use keywords from the job description to show we’re on the same page!
Showcase Your Writing Skills:As a confident writer, your application should reflect that! Pay attention to grammar, structure, and clarity. We want to see your ability to communicate effectively, as this is key in training and content creation.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re keen to be part of our community!
How to prepare for a job interview at Surf Life Saving GB
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of Surf Life Saving GB’s training programmes. Familiarise yourself with their qualifications, courses, and CPD offerings. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you articulate how your experience aligns with their mission.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Training, you'll be leading various teams. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed training initiatives or led a team. Highlight your ability to inspire and motivate others, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Emphasise Your Passion for Lifesaving
Surf Life Saving GB is all about saving lives. Share personal stories or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to this cause. Whether it’s volunteering or participating in lifesaving activities, showing your passion can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare thoughtful questions about the organisation's future training strategies, challenges they face, or how they measure the success of their training programmes. This shows you’re not just interested in the job, but also in contributing to their long-term goals.
