At a Glance
- Tasks: Inspire young people by sharing your athlete journey and mentoring them in schools.
- Company: Join the Youth Sport Trust, a purpose-driven organisation dedicated to improving young lives.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, generous leave, health benefits, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Flexible work during school terms with opportunities across the UK.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives while doing what you love.
- Qualifications: Current or retired elite athletes with a passion for mentoring and inspiring youth.
The Youth Sport Trust is looking for current or retired elite athletes to join our Athlete Mentor team as part of the Learning Academy. We actively encourage and welcome applications from candidates of diverse cultures, perspectives and lived experiences. Successful applicants will have the opportunity to work across a range of our school programmes, initiatives and events.
As an Athlete Mentor, you will visit schools, sharing your personal experiences as a successful athlete to help young people fulfil their potential.
One of the programmes we are recruiting for is the Wimbledon Foundation Set for Success Programme. The Set for Success programme aims to improve young people's life chances, their positive social engagement and their involvement in education by helping them to develop their confidence, aspirations, resilience and self-esteem through leadership in sport. The programme is supported with ongoing Athlete Mentor delivery and by teacher-led school sessions. Athlete mentors delivering on this programme would be trained to deliver 8 half-day visits and 1 full-day event visit.
Our Athlete Mentor work takes place across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, and we welcome applicants from all areas. Most of the work will be based in your local/regional area and for larger events the athlete mentor may be expected to travel further afield. In line with current programme delivery priorities and to ensure sufficient regional coverage, we are particularly looking for athletes based in specific areas of England, Scotland & Wales (including Welsh speaking) & Northern Ireland.
Successful applicants will be contracted to the Youth Sport Trust as Casual Workers, and the work will be primarily during school term time. There would be an expectation that you could deliver a minimum of 8-10 half-days / full-days next academic year, and the initial contract will run from September 2026, through the 2026-2027 academic year, finishing in August 2027.
Pay Rate: £272 full day / £205 half day plus holiday pay at 12.07%.
Closing date for applications: 11:59pm on Sunday 28 June 2026. Shortlisting will take place week commencing Monday 29 June. All successful candidates will be contacted by email by Friday 3 July 2026. First interview and selection day: Shortlisted applicants will be required to attend an initial online interview week commencing Monday 6 July and, if successful, followed by a face-to-face selection day and formal interview on Wednesday 22nd July (9.30am - 4.30pm) in Loughborough.
Benefits include generous annual leave entitlement, health cash plan, employee assistance programme and volunteering days.
At the Youth Sport Trust, you will join a forward-thinking, purpose-driven team committed to improving young lives. Our values underpin everything we do, and we pride ourselves on a work culture which fosters innovation, creativity and personal passion. If you are motivated by purpose, skilled at turning strategy into action, and eager to amplify a cause that makes a real difference to children across the UK, we’d love to hear from you.
Youth Sport Trust believes that diversity drives excellence, and that representation is important. We therefore positively welcome and seek to ensure we achieve diversity in our workforce and that all job applicants and employees receive equal and fair treatment. We encourage applications from all candidates regardless of age, race, gender, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or nationality.
Please note that this position is subject to an enhanced Criminal Records Check.
Athlete Mentor employer: Youth Sport Trust
The Youth Sport Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for current or retired elite athletes to inspire and mentor young people across the UK. With a strong commitment to diversity and a supportive work culture, employees benefit from generous leave, health plans, and personal development opportunities while making a meaningful impact in their local communities. Join a passionate team dedicated to fostering confidence and resilience in the next generation through sport.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Athlete Mentor
✨Connect with Local Sports Clubs
Get in touch with local sports clubs and recreational centres. They often need freelance support for events, coaching, or management tasks. Don’t be shy—offer your skills and let them know you’re available to help with their upcoming projects.
✨Attend Sports Networking Events
Make the rounds at local sports networking events, meet-ups, and expos. These gatherings are fantastic spots to meet potential clients and other freelance professionals in sports-recreation-management. Bring your A-game, chat with others, and see how you can collaborate or offer your services.
✨Show Off Your Work
Create a public portfolio showcasing projects you've worked on—event planning, marketing strategies for sports programmes, or even volunteer work. Highlight your best achievements and share this on platforms like Instagram or your own website. This visibility can pull in clients looking for freelancers with your expertise.
✨Leverage Social Media Groups
Join Facebook groups or LinkedIn communities focused on sports and recreation management. These platforms are goldmines for freelance opportunities, plus you'll be in the loop about new projects and hiring needs in the industry. Engage with the conversations and position yourself as a knowledgeable resource!
We think you need these skills to ace Athlete Mentor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Experience in Sports Management:When you're applying for a freelance role in sports-recreation management, it's crucial to showcase any relevant experience you have managing teams, organising events, or working within recreational facilities. Make sure to detail your specific achievements in these areas, as this will set you apart from other candidates who might have broader experience.
Show Off Your Portfolio of Past Projects:As a freelancer, potential clients want to see what you've done before. Compile a portfolio that includes case studies of past projects, detailing your role, the challenges you faced, and the outcomes. This not only gives them a glimpse into your skills but also your approach to sports-recreation management.
Be Clear About Your Availability and Rates:One of the key aspects of freelance work is establishing a good understanding of your availability and rates. Be upfront about your typical hourly or project rates in your application, and let them know when you're ready to start. This transparency can make a big difference in the selection process.
Tailor Your Application to Youth Sport Trust:Make sure to research Youth Sport Trust thoroughly and tailor your application to resonate with their specific needs and values. Reference their past projects, mission, and aims in your cover letter to demonstrate that you're not just any sports-recreation manager – you’re the right fit for them!
How to prepare for a job interview at Youth Sport Trust
✨Show Off Your Event Management Skills
In sports-recreation management, showcasing your experience in organising events or managing teams is crucial. Bring along a portfolio of past events you've worked on or list some successful projects to demonstrate your capability.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Latest Trends
Staying up-to-date with current trends in sports and recreation can set you apart. Be ready to discuss recent developments in the industry, as well as any innovative programmes you’d suggest for Youth Sport Trust.
✨Pitch Your Unique Selling Points
As a freelancer, this is your chance to sell not just your skills, but your unique approach to sports-recreation management. Be prepared to discuss how your background can bring value to Youth Sport Trust and make them see why they need you in their corner.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect to tackle some practical questions or case studies during your interview. Be ready to discuss how you would handle specific challenges in sports management, like crisis management or team dynamics, as this can demonstrate your critical thinking in real-world situations.
