How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
- doing specialist courses approved by national sporting bodies
University
You could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in a subject like:
- outdoor adventure education
- adventure sports science
- outdoor leadership
- outdoors learning
Subjects like physical education, coaching and sports development are also useful for getting into this career.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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College
You could take a college course to learn some of the skills and knowledge needed for this job. This may help when looking for work as a trainee outdoor leader.
Courses include:
- sport and outdoor activities
- education and training - outdoor learning
- sport and active leisure
You'll also need a coaching or instructor qualification approved by the relevant national governing body for the sports or activities you want to teach.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
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Apprenticeship
You could apply to do an apprenticeship with an activity centre or outdoors adventure organisation.
For example:
- Outdoor Activity Instructor Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
- Outdoor Learning Specialist Level 5 Higher Apprenticeship
These apprenticeships take between 1 and 2 years to complete and combine on-the-job training with study.
Entry requirements
Employers will set their own entry requirements.
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Volunteering
The key to finding a job is to get plenty of work experience. It will give you a better understanding of the role, and the chance to make contacts who may help you to find paid work.
You could:
- do a Duke of Edinburgh award
- join sports and activity clubs
- volunteer at outdoor activities centres
- work with a mountain rescue team
- volunteer with charities that provide young people with outdoor learning opportunities
Direct Application
You can apply directly to employers if you've got relevant skills and experience.
Experience can be from:
- youth work
- teaching
- sports coaching
- physical training instruction, for example, in the armed forces
Other Routes
You could complete qualifications through sports or activity clubs, an accredited outdoor education centre, or a national governing body.
Examples of instructor qualifications include:
- Mountain Training England Award in Mountain Leadership
- British Canoe Awarding Body Certificate in Coaching Paddlesport
- UK Snowsport Coaching Scheme
You'll usually need at least 12 months' experience in an activity before you take an award. Check with the relevant national governing body for details of their courses and qualifications.
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Career tips
Some jobs are seasonal, for example from February to November. It's important to check what type of contract is being offered when looking at job vacancies.
Professional and industry bodies
You could join the Institute for Outdoor Learning, for professional development training opportunities and to make industry contacts.
Further information
The Institute for Outdoor Learning has more information on how to become an outdoor activities instructor.