Outdoor Activities Instructor

Typical Salary

£12,000 To £30,000

Typical Hours

36 to 38 variable

evenings / weekends / bank holidays as customers demand

How To Become a Outdoor Activities Instructor

You can get into this job through:

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

College / University

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).

2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course

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 an advanced apprenticeship as an outdoor activity instructor.

5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

Routes into this Career

Routes into this Career are not listed for this job.

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.

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

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 & Progression

Career Path & Progression are not listed for this job.

Volunteering Opportunities

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

Tips & Information

Professional and industry bodies

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

Further information

The Institute for Outdoor Learning has more information on becoming an outdoor activities instructor.

Restrictions & 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