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Outdoor activities instructor apprenticeships

Sports and leisure | Teaching and education

Outdoor activities instructor apprenticeships - where to start

You can get into this job through

  • a college course
  • an apprenticeship
  • applying directly
  • doing specialist courses approved by national sporting bodies


    • College

    There's no set entry route to become an outdoor activity instructor but it may be useful to study a relevant qualification like a Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Skills and Activities for Sport and Active Leisure (Outdoor Education). This would teach you some of the skills needed for the job. Then you could try to find a trainee job with an activity centre. You'll also need to get coaching or instructor qualifications approved by the relevant national governing body for each of your sports or activities.


    You'll usually need 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a Level 2 course. You'll need 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a Level 3 course. 

    Apprenticeship

    You could get into this job through a Level 3 apprenticeship as an outdoor activity instructor. Employers usually set their own entry requirements but will often recruit people aged 18 or over.

    There are no set entry requirements but it may help you to get in if you have 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths.

    Volunteering

    The key to finding work is to get as much work experience as possible. It will help you get a better understanding of the role, and make contacts who may help you to find paid work. You could try getting involved in activities, like: 

    • Duke of Edinburgh awards 
    • membership of activity clubs
    • volunteering at outdoor activities centres
    Direct Application

    You can apply directly to employers if you've got some of the relevant skills and knowledge needed for this role. Some instructors have previous experience in youth work, teaching, sports coaching or training, or as physical training instructors in the armed forces. You'll usually need: 

    • a skill in at least one outdoor activity 
    • coaching or instructor qualifications approved by the relevant national governing body for each of your sports or activities
    Other Routes

    You could complete relevant qualifications through sports or activity clubs, or at an accredited outdoor education centre. Examples of instructor qualifications include: 

    • Mountain Leader Training England Award in Mountain Leadership 
    • British Canoe Union Certificate in Coaching Paddlesport 
    • United Kingdom Snowsports Coach Awards Scheme

    You'll usually need at least 12 months' experience in the activity before you take the award. Check with the the relevant national governing body for your sport for details of courses and qualifications. 

    Professional and industry bodies

    You could join the Institute of Outdoor Learning, for professional development, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.


    Outdoor activities instructor apprenticeships - what it takes

    Skills and knowledge

    You'll need: 

    • patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations 
    • the ability to work well with others 
    • sensitivity and understanding 
    • leadership skills 
    • to be thorough and pay attention to detail 
    • the ability to work on your own 
    • knowledge of English language
    • knowledge of teaching and the ability to design courses
    • to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
    Restrictions and Requirements
    You'll need to: 

    • be over 18 years of age 
    • have a life-saving certificate if you instruct water-based activities 
    • have a first aid certificate
    • pass enhanced background checks

    Outdoor activities instructor apprenticeships - what you'll do

    Day-to-day tasks

    Your day-to-day duties might include: 

    • planning and preparing activities
    • explaining, advising on and demonstrating activities
    • instructing in specialist areas, like sailing or climbing 
    • making sure all equipment and facilities are safe 
    • explaining safety procedures
    Working environment
    You could work at an activity centre or in the countryside. Your working environment may be you'll travel often, physically demanding and outdoors in all weathers.

    Career path and progression - Outdoor activities instructor apprenticeships

    You could work on contract, or do freelance work. With experience, you could progress to centre management, or set up your own activity centre.

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    Considering an Apprenticeship?

    There are lots of benefits to apprenticeships, here are our top 5:

    • Paid Training
      Not only will your organisation (or the Government) pay for all of your training, but you’ll be paid to do it. That means you could actually get paid to get your degree and have no debt!
    • Range of career opportunities
      There are over 625 different apprenticeships to choose from, in a range of industries. Whether you’re interested in law, marketing, construction or engineering, you’ll find something up your street!
    • Earn & learn
      As an apprentice, the minimum you’ll earn is £6.20 an hour, but we’ve seen apprentices earn a starting salary of up to £30,000 a year! You could also get other employee benefits like gym memberships, paid holiday and sick pay.
    • Great career prospects
      Employers think apprentices are 15% more employable than those with other qualifications. In fact, many large employers train their graduates and apprentices together!
    • Learn on the job
      There’s only so much you can learn when you just do a qualification. As an apprentice, you’ll also get to learn on the job - whether that’s designing amazing graphics, chopping vegetables or building engines!

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