Activity Instructor

YMCA England & Wales; Curbridge; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A community-focused charity in Curbridge is seeking an Outdoor Activities Leader to join their program team at Fairthorne Manor. The successful candidate will lead various outdoor activities safely and engage with participants of all ages, ensuring a high standard of customer care. Candidates must have at least 2 years of experience in outdoor education and hold a valid First Aid certificate. This role offers an opportunity to be part of a rewarding charity with a commitment to community support and inclusive practices.

Benefits

Employer pension contribution

Health Cash plan

25 days holiday FTE, increasing with service

Option to purchase additional annual leave

50% discount on nursery fees

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience in a leadership role for outdoor activities.
• Ability to communicate effectively with a diverse audience.
• Calm under pressure and capable of problem resolution.

Responsibilities

• Lead outdoor activities like abseiling and kayaking.
• Ensure safety and customer care during activities.
• Assist with maintenance and safety checks of equipment.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Customer Engagement

Problem-solving

Education

At least 2 years experience in outdoor education

8-hour First Aid Certificate

Job description

Benefits to you:

• Employer pension contribution
• Health Cash plan
• 25 days holiday FTE, increasing with length of service up to a maximum of 30 days
• Option to purchase additional annual leave (up to 10 days per annum)
• Celebration Leave
• Employee Assistance Program with Health Assured
• 50% discount on nursery fees
• Day camps discounts : 1 week free and 1 week at 50% per child per annum
• Campsite and activities discounts at YMCA Fairthorne Manor
• Cycle to work scheme
• Opportunities for professional development

Job Purpose:

Based at YMCA Fairthorne Manor you will be a key member of the programme team and play a key role in the delivery of outdoor programmes. You will be responsible for leading on a variety of outdoor activities on site, these activities include; Abseiling, Aerial runway, Archery, Axe throwing, Climbing, Crate Challenge, Jacobs Ladder, Vertical Assault, Kayaking, Canoeing, Challenge and Woodland activities and any new activities added to the programme of delivery.

Main Duties & Responsibilities:

• To provide a high standard of activity leadership and customer care across a range of different outdoor activities for people from 2 years old to adult, with differing abilities, including those with special needs.
• To fulfil the ‘Hosting’ role, linking with groups on their arrival, ensuring everything is properly prepared and then ensuring their welfare for the duration of their visit. This involves staying at Fairthorne Manor outside normal working hours and this responsibility is allocated on a rota system.
• To assist with the maintenance, safety and development of activities within the department, including its equipment.
• To assist and complete equipment checks and support the process of robust records of these tasks
• To deliver evening activities and support duties in the dining room ensuring smooth delivery of the programme
• To act in the interests of your own safety & the safety of others at all times.
• To perform the role of duty manager on a rota basis.
• To follow YMCA Fairthorne Group’s Safeguarding, Child Protection and Safer Working practice policies at all times. Taking any concerns regarding a health or / and wellbeing to your line manager or senior management.

Person Specification & Key Competencies:

Personal attributes

• An outgoing and friendly personality
• Outstanding ability to communicate well and engage a wide range of people, including children, staff and group leaders
• An outstanding ability and willingness to relate positively to customers (many of whom are children) and staff
• An ability to deal with issues effectively and calmly as they arise
• An ability to use own initiative

Qualifications / Experience

Essential

• At least 2 years experience working in outdoor education or similar environment.
• Minimum 8-hour First Aid Certificate

Desirable

• ERCA High Ropes Instructor
• Climbing Wall Award inc. Abseil module
• BC Paddlesport Instructor
• Archery GB Instructor
• 16-hour Outdoor First Aid Certificate

Successful applicant will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure via Disclosure and Barring Service.

We are an equal opportunities charity with commitment to diversity, equality and inclusion in the workplace. A copy of this policy will be made available on request.

Please apply now for this rewarding position and be part of an amazing charity who continue to support and achieve wonderful things within the community.