At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead youth development programmes and create pathways for young people across the UK.
- Company: Tall Ships Youth Trust provides life-changing experiences at sea for disadvantaged youth since 1956.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hybrid working, 25 days annual leave, and paid wellbeing breaks.
- Other info: This role is based in Portsmouth with travel to build networks.
- Why this job: Shape impactful programmes while working directly with young people on voyages.
- Qualifications: Senior experience in youth development and strong safeguarding knowledge required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 55000 £ per year.
The role involves creating meaningful opportunities for young people and helping them reach their full potential. The Director of Youth Development & Outdoor Learning will develop and lead a three-voyage programme and wider pathways for young people, working with schools, youth organisations, apprenticeship providers, and corporate partners across the UK. This hybrid role includes regular time at the Portsmouth hub, on voyages, and travelling to build and strengthen networks.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the development and delivery of youth development programmes across multiple voyage experiences.
- Develop pathways for young people, volunteers, and crew, including training, mentoring placements, and employment opportunities.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with schools, youth organisations, volunteers, and corporate partners.
- Ensure programmes meet sector quality standards and lead the journey towards appropriate Kite marks and accreditation.
- Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead, oversee DBS responsibilities, and maintain high standards of care for all young people, including those with SEND.
- Lead traded income growth and align programme growth with funding priorities.
- Lead and guide the youth development and outdoor learning team while contributing to senior leadership across the Trust.
- Monitor and evaluate programme impact to ensure positive outcomes.
About our company:
Tall Ships Youth Trust provides young people from disadvantaged backgrounds with life-changing experiences at sea. Each year, more than 1,200 young people benefit from our voyages, gaining confidence, social skills, and life skills. Approximately 80% face challenges such as disability, mental health issues, caring responsibilities, or difficult socio-economic circumstances.
The Benefits:
- Flexible hybrid working, with 2–3 days per week at the Portsmouth hub.
- 25 days annual leave (increasing with service) plus bank holidays.
- Paid 30-minute wellbeing break per 7.5-hour day.
- Opportunities to spend time on our vessels and see the impact of programmes first-hand.
- Discounted local parking and casual dress.
The person:
- Senior experience in youth development, outdoor learning, or education.
- Experience creating pathways for young people, including apprenticeships or work opportunities.
- Strong safeguarding knowledge and experience, including SEND support.
- Experience of income generation, business development, and balancing charitable impact with commercial sustainability.
- Experience of budget responsibility.
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills with young people, colleagues, and partners.
- Willing to join voyages and comfortable engaging directly with young people.
What’s next:
If you’re ready to make a real difference in the lives of young people, please send your CV and cover letter to recruitment@tallships.org by Friday 10th July 2026.
Director of Youth Development & Outdoor Learning in Portsmouth employer: Tall Ships Youth Trust
Tall Ships Youth Trust, located in Portsmouth, offers flexible hybrid working and 25 days annual leave. The team is dedicated to providing transformative experiences for over 1,200 young people annually, focusing on those facing significant challenges.
