Outdoor Activity Instructor: 2026 Season - Hampshire
New Forest Activities
Location: Beaulieu, New Forest National Park, Hampshire
Salary: £12.71ph (paid monthly)
Outdoor Activity Instructor – 2026 Season at New Forest Activities
Season: March – October 2026
Pay: £12.71ph (paid monthly)
About the Role
Join our instructor team for the 2026 season, guiding and inspiring people in the outdoors as part of a supportive team based in the heart of the New Forest National Park. You will deliver high-quality outdoor activities to a wide range of clients across land and water-based programmes.
You can live at the staff campsite during the spring and summer, and our main intake is March/April ahead of the peak season.
We are recruiting for two specific instructor roles:
- Watersports Instructor – Deliver paddlesports sessions (canoeing and kayaking).
- Land-Based Instructor – Deliver archery, Battlezone, bushcraft and ropes course activities.
Please state clearly on your application which role you are applying for.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver outdoor activities: From canoeing and kayaking to high ropes and camping activities.
- Participant safety: Lead sessions safely, perform equipment checks, and follow procedures and risk assessments.
- Engage and teach: Deliver clear, engaging instruction suitable for all ages and abilities.
- Teamwork: Work collaboratively with the wider instructor team.
- Customer service: Answer questions, support participants, and create a positive experience.
- Skill development: Help participants build outdoor confidence and skills.
- Emergency response: Be prepared to respond appropriately and administer first aid if needed.
- Environmental stewardship: Promote responsible outdoor practice.
- Adaptability: Adjust activities based on weather, water conditions and group needs.
Person Specification (Who You Are)
- Enjoy working outdoors in beautiful environments.
- Motivated, keen to progress, and confident leading groups.
- Watersports Instructor applicants:
- Must hold relevant paddlesport leadership qualifications and be confident leading groups on the water.
- Land-Based Instructor applicants:
- Should have leadership experience and qualifications/delivery experience in archery, Battlezone, bushcraft and/or ropes.
- Desirable qualifications include (but aren’t limited to):
- Paddlesport Leader or equivalent British Canoeing leadership award
- British Canoeing Coach or equivalent
- ERCA High Ropes Certification
- Archery GB / Archery Coach qualification
- Cycling guide qualification with bike maintenance experience
- Bushcraft qualifications or solid delivery experience
- You also:
- Hold a recognised First Aid Award (typically 16 hours, in date).
- Are happy working weekends and bank holidays during peak season.
- Are 18+ and legally able to work in the UK.
- Are positive, professional and a team player.
Benefits
- Clear progression and a personal training plan.
- Optional pension scheme (via Scottish Widows).
- Staff discounts on equipment and clothing.
- Access to equipment and venues for personal development and training.
- Family and friends discounts on activities.
- Supportive team with industry experience.
- Optional camping accommodation at the staff campsite (small salary sacrifice).
Working Conditions
- Hours: Centre open 7 days per week — weekend work expected.
- Full time: Typically 8 hrs/day, 5 days/week (longer/shorter days possible).
- Season length: Generally ~6 months (March–October); part-time outside this period may be possible.
FAQs
Do I need to be qualified already?
Yes — relevant National Governing Body qualifications are required for this role. Training and development opportunities are available during the season, but first qualifications must be in place already.
Do I need industry experience?
We welcome a mix of experienced and newly qualified instructors — prior group leadership experience (including from volunteering, clubs or youth work) is expected.
What clothing/equipment do I need?
Prepare to instruct in all weather. Safety and leaders’ equipment provided; discounts available for personal kit.
How to Apply
To register your interest and be considered for the 2026 Outdoor Activity Instructor roles, please send your CV and covering letter to [email protected]