Salary
Apprentice Minimum Wage
Location
LE4 5PN
Job Overview
Job Title: Apprentice Outdoor Instructor
Responsible To: Centre Director
Job Purpose
To support and deliver high-quality outdoor learning and activity sessions for Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre clients, while working towards the Institute for Outdoor Learning (IOL) Outdoor Activity Instructor Apprenticeship Standard.
The Apprentice Outdoor Instructor will develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours required to become a confident and competent outdoor instructor. Through a combination of on-the-job learning, training, qualifications and practical experience, the postholder will progress from assisting experienced instructors to independently leading activities and groups.
This apprenticeship is for a period of up to 12 months, during which the postholder will work towards achieving the Institute for Outdoor Learning Outdoor Activity Instructor Apprenticeship Qualification. The apprenticeship includes structured training, regular assessment, and ongoing professional development, with the aim of successfully completing the qualification and developing a career within the outdoor industry.
________________________________________
Principal Accountabilities
1. Activity Delivery
• Assist with and progressively lead outdoor activity sessions for schools, youth groups, families, community organisations and other Centre users.
• Deliver activities in accordance with National Governing Body requirements, Centre operating procedures and best practice guidance.
• Support the delivery of a range of outdoor activities, including archery, climbing, paddlesports, high ropes, bushcraft and other Centre programmes.
• Assist the management in delivering after-school clubs, home education sessions and holiday activity programmes.
• Provide engaging, inclusive and enjoyable experiences for participants of all ages and abilities.
• Ensure all sessions are delivered to a high standard and in accordance with Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre policies and procedures.
•
• Act as a positive role model for participants, promoting confidence, resilience, teamwork and personal development.
2. Health, Safety and Welfare
• Take reasonable care for the health, safety and welfare of yourself, colleagues, volunteers and Centre users.
• Assist in maintaining a safe working environment and contribute to a positive health and safety culture.
• Report incidents, accidents, near misses, hazards and equipment faults promptly to Centre management.
• Administer first aid where qualified and appropriate, completing all required documentation accurately and promptly.
• Follow all risk assessments, operating procedures and safeguarding requirements.
• Support the inspection and checking of equipment, ensuring accurate records are maintained.
•
3. Facilities and Equipment
• Assist in ensuring that Centre facilities and activity areas are maintained to a high standard.
• Prepare, check, transport and store equipment safely and correctly before and after activities.
• Report any damaged, missing or unsafe equipment.
• Support the cleaning, maintenance and presentation of the Centre, activity areas and equipment.
• Contribute to creating a positive and professional environment for all Centre users.
4. Learning and Professional Development
• Actively engage with all aspects of the Outdoor Activity Instructor Apprenticeship programme.
• Attend and complete all required training, workshops, assessments and development opportunities.
• Work towards achieving relevant National Governing Body awards and instructor qualifications.
• Maintain personal training records and provide evidence required for apprenticeship completion.
• Take responsibility for keeping qualifications, memberships and professional registrations up to date where applicable.
• Seek feedback and demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement and professional development.
5. General Responsibilities
• Uphold the values, aims and objectives of Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre.
• Work effectively as part of the wider staff team, supporting colleagues and Centre operations when required.
• Promote equality, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of the role.
• Comply with all Centre policies, procedures and safeguarding requirements.
• Undertake any other reasonable duties commensurate with the role as requested by the Centre Manager or Trustees.
Skills and Qualifications required
Qualifications
English and Maths – Must have either Level 2 Key Skills or GCSEs grade 4/C to complete the apprenticeship. A candidate may start the apprenticeship if they have Level 1 Key Skills, or GCSEs grade 3/D, but only if they pass a pre-employment assessment.
Candidate cannot already have a qualification equal to or above in the field of outdoor pursuits or outdoor learning.
Knowledge & Experience
Experience of working with young people.
Experience working to time schedules – throughout a busy day.
Understanding of how to behave in a professional setting with customers
Have worked independently, being trusted to work without direct guidance from another member of staff.
Personal attributes
Leadership – possess core leadership and social skills to develop in order to deliver high quality educational sessions to clients from various backgrounds and abilities.
Teamwork - be able to work in a team environment, and be keen to learn from others.
Communication - be able to communicate effectively with young people and be a good role model.
Attitude - be willing to learn and undertake training, reflect on performance and use own initiative.
Reliability – be punctual, arriving at work and scheduled activities on time. Consistently carry out work that has been set out as expected.
Disposition - friendly, well presented, courteous and respectful of colleagues, children, parents and members of the public. Be able to work evenings and weekends including bank holidays.
Health, Fitness and Wellbeing:- candidates must be able to meet the physical demands of the role, including working outdoors in varying weather conditions, leading activities, handling equipment and supporting participants. A positive and proactive approach to personal health and wellbeing is essential.
Hours per week
Contracted for 30 hours a week, hours can go over with overtime taken back in TOIL during quieter periods.
Closing Date
01/11/2026
Website
Apply for the job by visiting https://www.lopc.co.uk/careers/outdoor-instructor-apprenticeships/
Apply
Apply for the job by emailing your CV + covering letter to david@lopc.co.uk