Apprentice Outdoor Instructor - Dorset
Brenscombe Outdoor Centre
Location: Wareham, Dorset.
Salary: £8ph
Closes: 30/11/26
Apprentice Outdoor Instructor at Brenscombe Outdoor Centre
Employer: Activate Outdoors Ltd – Brenscombe Outdoor Centre.
Location: Wareham, Dorset.
No of positions available: 2. 18 years + due to Safeguarding, overnight duties. Potential for a live in position.
Duration: 16 months.
Wages: £8:00/hr. Guaranteed increase in 2nd year, amount depending on age and qualifications obtained in first year (at least to NMW for age).
Working hours: Average 40 hours per week, with additional hours worked and time accrued in lieu Inclusive of evening and weekend work.
About the centre: Based in the beautiful Dorset countryside, Brenscombe Outdoor Centre provides a range of outdoor activities and experiences for visiting schools, youth groups, families and other organisations. We aim to provide memorable experiences that help people develop confidence, teamwork, resilience and new skills in a safe and supportive environment.
About the role:
Working alongside experienced members of staff, you will support the delivery of outdoor activities and help ensure that our groups have a safe, enjoyable and rewarding experience. Duties may include assisting with activity sessions, preparing and checking equipment, maintaining activity areas, welcoming groups, supporting the general upkeep of the centre and helping with the smooth running of daily operations including evening, weekend and overnight duties. You will learn the importance of customer service, teamwork, communication, health and safety, risk management and safeguarding. As your confidence and competence grow, you will have opportunities to take on greater responsibility and develop your practical skills under the guidance of qualified instructors.
This is a fantastic opportunity to earn while you learn, gain valuable experience and develop a range of transferable skills in a rewarding and varied working environment.
Some of your day to day duties may include:
- Assist with the setup, delivery and pack-down of activity sessions
- Domestic/house keeping duties
- General site maintenance
- A member of the overnight duty rota
Training and qualifications to be provided:
You will combine practical, on-the-job experience at Brenscombe Outdoor Centre with the training and assessment required to work towards your apprenticeship. Some of the training and qualifications may include
- Level 3 Outdoor Activity Instructor Apprenticeship Standard
- Registered Practitioner of the Institute for Outdoor Learning (RPIOL)
- Outdoor First Aid (16hrs)
- Level 2 Safeguarding (HSQE)
- Equality, Diversity and Inclusion training (HSQE)
- Four other choice HSQE course from a possible 65 courses (for example Manual Handling, COSHH, Food safety, Fire Warden, etc)
- Prevent, British Values and Online Safety online courses
- Introduction to PPE Inspection (Learn the Ropes)
- Paddle Sport Safety & Rescue Course
- Paddlesport Instructor
- RCI Training
- ERCA High Ropes Instructor Archery GB
Personal qualities and skills:
Essential:
- Reliable, punctual and trustworthy.
- Enthusiastic, motivated and keen to learn.
- Responsible and professional in approach.
- Calm and sensible when dealing with challenging situations.
- Flexible and willing to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including evenings, weekends and overnight shifts.
- A genuine passion for the outdoors and adventure activities.
- Positive, approachable and friendly attitude.
- Proactive and adaptable
- Ability to follow instructions, procedures and safety guidelines.
- Willingness to learn new practical skills.
- Good communication and interpersonal skills.
- Basic problem-solving and decision-making skills
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
- Experience working with young people
Desirable:
- Previous experience in outdoor activities, sports, camping or residential centres.
- Good organisational skills and the ability to manage tasks independently.
- Confidence in using initiative while recognising when to seek assistance.
- Ability to build positive relationships with guests and colleagues.
- Awareness of health and safety, safeguarding and risk management.
- Confidence working with groups of different ages and backgrounds.
- Previous customer service, hospitality or visitor-facing experience.
- A full UK driving licence
Qualifications required:
Essential: Level 1 (GCSE Grade D/3) in Functional Skills Maths and English
Desirable: Level 2(GCSE Grade C/4) in Functional Skills Maths and English
Future prospects:
- Potential extension to September, depending on bookings
- Seasonal instructor position available at Brenscombe for the summer season post-apprenticeship
- Outdoor Instructor either based at a Centre or Freelance
For more information: Please contact Jo Harvey on 01929 481222, email [email protected] or look at the Brenscombe Outdoor Centre website https://brenscombeoutdoor.co.uk/
To apply: Please submit a CV and cover letter Jo Harvey – [email protected]
Closing date: Monday 30th November 2026
Interviews: w/c 7th December 2026
Potential start date: Thursday 4th March 2027