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- Tasks: Lead outdoor learning sessions and create positive experiences for young people.
- Company: Join Surrey Outdoor Learning and Development, a vibrant team in beautiful locations.
- Benefits: Enjoy 26 days holiday, pension, training, and wellbeing discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people while working outdoors.
- Qualifications: Experience with group work and a passion for the outdoors is essential.
- Other info: Dynamic role with excellent training and career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 25052 - 25052 £ per year.
Overview
This position has a starting salary of £25,052 per annum based on a 36-hour working week. The roles are offered as six-month, fixed-term contract opportunities commencing in April 2026. We are excited to be hiring 2 Outdoor Learning Instructors in an academy role, to join our dynamic Outdoor Learning team at Surrey Outdoor Learning and Development (SOLD)!
Our centres are:
- Henley Fort, Guildford, Surrey, GU2 4RH
- Thames Young Mariners, Ham, Richmond, Surrey, TW10 7RX
- High Ashurst, Mickleham Dorking, Surrey, RH5 6DQ
Our Outdoor Learning Instructors work across all of SOLD's provision with a primary base at one of our centres.
Our Offer to You
- 26 days’ holiday, rising to 28 days after 2 years' service and 31 days after 5 years’ service
- Option to buy up to 10 days of additional annual leave
- A generous local government salary related pension
- Up to 5 days of carer’s leave and 2 paid volunteering days per year
- Paternity, adoption and dependents leave
- An Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support health and wellbeing
- Learning and development hub where you can access a wealth of resources
- Wellbeing and lifestyle discounts including gym, travel, and shopping
- A fantastic entry level role into the world of outdoor learning
- A comprehensive training package and ongoing support
- Being part of a friendly, dynamic team, working with a range of customers and projects
- Working in the outdoors in beautiful locations
- A chance to make a real difference to the lives of our residents
About The Role
At Surrey Outdoor Learning and Development (SOLD), we offer our visitors carefully facilitated, bespoke programmes in the outdoors, creating positive learning outcomes and experiences. Our Outdoor Learning Instructor (Academy) role is perfect for people either new to the outdoor learning industry or those who have some experience, holding one or two national governing body qualifications. We are looking for individuals who have excellent communication skills, are able to build rapport, empathise with others and be confident to lead groups in an outdoor setting. In return we will provide an excellent training package and support, which will grow and develop skills, knowledge and tools for the role.
A typical day might look like:
- Beginning with a team brief, preparing and setting up for the day’s programmes
- Seeing in, meeting and greeting our customers, settling the groups and liaising with the Leaders to understand their learning outcomes and needs
- Building relationships quickly, we deliver a range of outdoor learning sessions ensuring that, through review and reflection, participants gain valuable lifelong personal and social skills
- At the end of the day, we will see our customers out, or to their accommodation, and settle them in for an exciting night
- Coming together to debrief, share experiences, learn and discuss progress of individuals or groups in preparation for their next session
This is a rewarding role that can have a really positive impact; improving and enriching personal and social development, raising achievement, success and aspirations in our customers' lives.
Your Application
In order to be considered for shortlisting, your application will clearly evidence the following skills and align with our behaviours:
- Previous group work experience in an outdoor or other setting, and working with children or young people
- An interest or passion for the outdoors
- Excellent communication and customer service skills
- An understanding of good practice and high quality relating to health and safety
To apply, we request that you submit a CV and you will be asked the following 3 questions:
- Please tell us what motivates you to work with children and young people?
- Please tell us about what you can offer the groups you would be working with?
- What transferrable skills do you feel would benefit this role and why?
- Please tell us about what do you do to remain resilient in the workplace, for example after a long week working in mixed weather conditions.
Before submitting your application, we recommend you read the job description and Our Life at Surrey handbook to get an insight into working at Surrey. The job advert closes at 23:59 on 22nd February 2026 with interviews to follow.
Contact Us
Please contact us for any questions relating to the role. This could be to discuss flexible working requests, transferable skills or any barriers to employment. Please contact James Georges by e-mail at james.georges@surreycc.gov.uk.
An enhanced DBS ‘Disclosure and Barring Service’ check for regulated activity (formerly known as CRB) and the Children’s Barred List checks will be required for this role.
We look forward to receiving your application, please click on the apply online button below to submit.
Our Commitment
We are a disability confident employer which means if you have shared a disability on your application form and have evidenced you meet the minimum criteria, we guarantee you an interview. Your skills and experience truly matter to us. From application to your first day, we’re committed to supporting you with any adjustments you need, we value inclusion and warmly welcome you to join and help build a workplace where everyone belongs.
Outdoor Learning Instructor - Academy employer: Surrey County Council
Contact Detail:
Surrey County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Outdoor Learning Instructor - Academy
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, check out Surrey Outdoor Learning and Development's website and social media. Understanding their mission and values will help you connect better during your chat.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a friend or in front of the mirror. This will help you feel more confident and articulate when discussing your passion for outdoor learning.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your personality! When you're in the interview, let your enthusiasm for working with children and the outdoors shine through. Share personal stories that highlight your experience and skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your appreciation and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Outdoor Learning Instructor - Academy
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Outdoors: When you're writing your application, let your love for the outdoors shine through! Share any personal experiences or adventures that sparked your interest in outdoor learning. We want to see that enthusiasm!
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially working with children or young people. Use specific examples that demonstrate your communication skills and ability to lead groups. We’re looking for those standout moments!
Answer the Questions Thoughtfully: Take your time with the application questions. Reflect on what motivates you and how your skills can benefit our groups. We want to hear your unique perspective, so be genuine and detailed in your responses!
Check Your Application Before Submitting: Before hitting that submit button, give your application a thorough read-through. Make sure everything aligns with the job description and showcases your best self. We’re excited to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Surrey County Council
✨Know Your Outdoor Learning Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of outdoor learning practices and the specific programmes offered by Surrey Outdoor Learning and Development. Familiarise yourself with their approach to facilitating positive learning outcomes, as this will show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Show Off Your Communication Skills
Since excellent communication is key for this role, think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully built rapport or led groups. Be ready to discuss how you can engage with children and young people effectively in an outdoor setting.
✨Prepare for the Questions
Anticipate the questions they might ask, especially those about your motivation for working with young people and your resilience in challenging conditions. Practise your answers so you can convey your passion and adaptability clearly during the interview.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
This role involves working closely with a dynamic team, so be prepared to share examples of how you've collaborated with others in the past. Highlight your ability to contribute positively to a team environment, especially in outdoor settings.
