Trainee Schemes

Arthog Outdoor Education Centre
Assisstant Instructor Scheme
Details:
The essence of the scheme is to provide very enthusiastic young practitioners (usually aged between 20 - 25) with an opportunity to build up technical and teaching experience in their chosen activities, over a one-year period and receive guidance for their future development in our profession. You will have the opportunity to shadow some highly qualified professional staff and learn some of the practical tips that go towards becoming a successful instructor. They will structure your responsibility with the group according to your development and after a few months of learning the venues and how to work with different groups you will be able to run groups under their supervision. Course allowance To this end we provide the opportunity for you to attend such courses as are happening at the centre during this time. Usually this will mean -
  • SPA Training and/or Assessment
  • BCU Level 2 or 3 Canoe/Kayak/Sea/Surf Coach
  • ML Training and/or Assessment
  • A winter course (or Winter ML Training)
  • Possibly a foreign course (at a cheap rate)
  • Mountain First Aid

Arthog will provide full board and lodging in return for assistance in the total running of the centre. Also we will pay you £50 a week to help us run Monday’s team tasks and Friday’s orienteering whether you actually run them or not. Additionally, if you gain a qualification we will pay you for the use of that qualification where you use it in a professional/ freelance context (usually towards the end of your year). Sometimes Assistant Instructors have managed to get apprenticeship funding and have even managed to save money to buy kayaks and other gear through the year.
For further information contact Andy Hall, Head of Centre, Arthog O.E. Centre, ARTHOG, Gwynedd. LL39 1BX
Criteria:
To gain a place on this scheme, you need, first of all, to be massively enthusiastic(usually aged between 20 - 25), and this will show itself in a history of activity in a particular sport (usually kayaking or climbing). If you are polite, sociable and willing to learn, adapt and be flexible you will have an excellent and productive year.
Contact: Andy Hall Phone:01341 250455
Email: andy@arthog.co.uk Website: www.arthog.co.uk
 

Blue Peris Mountain Centre, Llanberis
Assisstant Instructor Scheme
Details:
Aims of the Assistant Instructor Scheme:

  • To provide high quality instructor training during a year of practical experience for someone who already has basic instructing experience who is seriously considering a career in outdoor education
  • To give him/her the opportunity to gain further technical qualifications
  • To develop teaching experience in various adventure activities so that s/he can progress from basic instructing skills to running sessions at a high professional standard
  • It is expected that the trainee will be able to take on the responsibilities of group instructor for some activities (see details of the Levels below). This training scheme has been running since 1990. Previous post holders have all progressed to successful careers, and the scheme is highly regarded in the industry.

    The Assistant Instructor will work under the supervision of a mentor, and training objectives will be set and evaluated quarterly. The training will focus upon all aspects of the role of group instructor. This will encompass training in both the technical and soft skills needed when teaching young people in the outdoors. The Assistant Instructor will be encouraged to follow National Governing Body training and assessment courses (dependent on their aspirations, ability and progress). Many of these will be arranged ‘in house’ at no charge, but we use other organisations for some higher qualifications and these will have to be part funded by the individual. Time off for training courses will be granted as well as considerable support, advice and training from Blue Peris staff. The scheme will last for one year from start date and can be terminated on either side with one month’s notice unless misconduct is involved. Accommodation may be available at the centre. The accommodation consists of two single rooms with shared toilet/shower, and self catering kitchen facilities. The accommodation is only suitable for single people, not couples, families or pets. The charge for accommodation will be £35 per person per week including heating, lighting, free use of washing machine.

    Food prepared by the centre is available for £20 per week provided the AI can attend the normal Blue Peris meal times. Pay and Benefits. The Assistant Instructor will commence on NJC Scale 3 (currently starting at £13,953* and rising to £14,391 pro rata) and will be provided with basic waterproofs, boots, rucksac etc.. Normal work will be on a five day week basis. Twenty-four days paid leave + bank holidays will be provided and additional time off in lieu can be accrued for weekend and evening working. Most leave will have to be taken during centre closure periods. The Assistant Instructor will be covered for personal accident insurance and 3rd party liability but not loss or damage to personal effects.
Criteria:
We are looking for someone with:-
  • an established interest in outdoor education
  • basic ability in two or more of the following activities: rock climbing, mountain walking, orienteering and canoeing (kayaking or open boating)
  • instructional experience in outdoor pursuits especially in at least one of the above activities, preferably backed up by the training element of a qualification, e.g. ML Training, SPA Training, Level 2 Coach training (Kayak or Open Boat), BOF Instructor Training etc.
  • an interest in personal development through outdoor adventure experience
  • an ability to relate well and a caring attitude to people of all ages and abilities
  • a clean driving licence (preferably including Class D1 vehicles and MiDAS Assessment). If you do not have D1 you must have a full licence for cars and be over 21 to get a provisional licence for minibuses (D1). Without a D1 provisional you will be unable to progress through the levels, phone Blue Peris if this is your situation.
  • satisfactory clearance by the Criminal Records Bureau. (Protection of children - Disclosure of criminal background of those with access to children - in accordance with Home Office Circular HOC 102/88). (Essential for the post.)
  • age 21+
  • First Aid Qualification
Contact: Oliver Knowles Phone:01286 870853
Email: mail@blueperis.co.uk Website: www.blueperis.co.uk
 

Christian Mountain Centre Pensarn Harbour
Trainee Instructor
Details:
The Christian Mountain Centre provides a wide variety of activity, environmental and specialist courses to schools, youth and church groups within a Christian environment. The CMC has up to 6 trainees each year on the instructional team, who are expected to take part in all aspects of the running of the centre. Duties will be varied and include the following:
  • Assisting and leading activities
  • Domestic and maintenance duties
  • Attending training courses as arranged by the centre.
  • Assisting and leading evening programs.

Training The training program covers three main areas:
  • Development of leadership and instructing skills
  • Development of your own skills in outdoor activities
  • Personal and spiritual development
1st Year
In the first year trainees complete a 2 day first aid course, and attend training courses for the ML (mountain leader), BCU Level 2 Kayak and SPA (climbing) awards. The CMC will also ensure that you receive training and experience of the full range of activities which the centre offers, including gorge walking, kayaking, canoeing, climbing, orienteering, expeditions, raft building as well as the environmental study work.

2nd Year The expectation is that applicants will stay for 2 years (or more) at the centre, to continue training, and if/when possible move up to the post of instructor. In the 2nd year it is hoped that the trainee will be able to take the assessments to obtain their ML, SPA and L2 qualifications. There is also some flexibility to branch out and develop other skills or areas, but this will be in discussion with the Centre Director and Senior Instructor(s).
The CMC is currently assisting in the development of an outdoor centre in India. Part of the trainee course during the 2nd year may include a 4-month trip to India in order to experience a developing centre in operation. Costs of the trip will be covered by the CMC.

Conditions. Trainee instructors will be attending the CMC on a voluntary basis. Board and lodging will be provided by the centre on site, and direct expenses related to their training will be payable by the CMC. Trainees also receive an allowance of £124 per month. If a trainee leaves before the end of the contract, they may be required to reimburse the costs of any training courses.

Hours: Flexible but based on 8:45am – 5:00pm. However, the nature of an outdoor centre means that a flexible approach to working hours is necessary. Trainees will be able to take 30 days leave in the year, which includes bank holidays

Qualifications The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate an interest/aptitude in the outdoors. An enthusiasm for all sports is essential. A competent swimmer is essential, and a driving license is preferable.

Basis of Faith All staff are required to assent to the Centre's doctrinal basis of faith, of which a copy is enclosed
Criteria:
The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate an interest/aptitude in the outdoors. An enthusiasm for all sports is essential. A competent swimmer is essential, and a driving license is preferable. All staff are required to assent to the Centre's doctrinal basis of faith.
Contact: Mark Downey Phone:01341 241718
Email: office@cmcpensarn.org.uk Website: www.cmcpensarn.co.uk
 

GWERSYLL YR URDD GLAN-LLYN
Cynllun Hyfforddai Training Scheme
Details:
The aim of the trainee scheme is to give young people an opportunity to develop skills and receive instruction towards gaining recognised qualifications in the outdoors and that that aim will be achieved through the medium of Welsh. All trainees on the scheme must be fluent in both Welsh and English. The scheme is over a period of 12 months starts in August. At the end of the year, the ‘hyfforddai’ have gained qualifications in numerous activities - we aim for Instructor level 2 kayaking and canoeing, Sailing level 2, Instruction level 2 rescue boat, ML mountain leader training, S.P.A training, First Aid and also internal training on other gwersyll activities, e.g. climbing wall, swimming pool, high ropes course, ten-pin bowling, etc. The scheme has been very successful in the past with several of the hyfforddai ensuring permanent employment in the gwersyll and other centres after completing the training course. If you are interested, further information (in Welsh) along with an application form is available on the Glan-llyn website www.urdd.org/glanllyn or contact the gwersyll: Gwersyll yr Urdd Glan-llyn, Llanuwchllyn, Y Bala, Gwynedd LL23 7ST glanllyn@urdd.org 01678 541 000
Criteria:
Contact: Phone:01678 541 000
Email: glanllyn@urdd.org Website: www.urdd.org/glanllyn
 

Plas Menai
Fasttrack Instructor Training
Details:
If you are considering a career, gap year or working break in the outdoors, our fasttrack instructor training will give you the internationally recognised qualifications and experience you need. For over 22 years we have been running these specialist courses and have an unrivalled reputation for providing the highest standards of training. Our courses open up worldwide employment opportunities as watersports and outdoor instructors, professional yacht skippers and expedtion leaders. Your employment prospects will be in the best hands. We provide small group tution combined with all the latestequipment, dedicated coaches and modular training programmes supported by excellent shore-side facilities to ensure you get the best springboard into the industry. As well as enjoying excellent employment prospects with international watersports and adventure organisations, successful graduates also have the opportunity to apply for Plas Menai's work experience programme. Fasttrack Instructor Training Options Sailing and Windsurfing Instructor - 12 Weeks Sailing Instructor - 8 Weeks Windsurfing Instructor - 4 Weeks Powerboat Instructor - 3 Weeks Professional Yachmaster Training - 17 Weeks Kayak and Mountain Instructor - 12 Weeks
Criteria:
Entry requirements vary, depending upon which Instructor Training course you attend. For further details visit www.plasmenai.co.uk/careertraining.php
Contact: Alan Williams Phone:(0)1248 670964
Email: Course Booking Enquiries: bookings@plasmenai.co.uk Website: www.plasmenai.co.uk
 

Plas y Brenin
Instructor Scheme
Details:
A one year paid position in which you will work alongside some of the most experienced and highly qualified instructors in the countrry.
Criteria:
You must be an experienced paddler and climber and be qualified to Winter ML or BCU Level 3 coach. Some experience of group management is desirable.
Contact: John Cousins Phone:01690 720214
Email: info@pyb.co.uk Website: www.pyb.co.uk
 

Plas y Brenin
The Fast Track Instructor Scheme
Details:
If you would like to develop a career in the outdoors, our new fast track training programme could provide the ideal launch pad. Over this intensive and exciting four-month training period you will work towards a clutch of National Governing Body Awards, gather a huge amount of experience and develop your personal skills. What is more, when you leave you will take with you the respect and recognition that comes with having been trained at the National Mountain Centre Rubbing shoulders with the instructors, you will stay in on-site accommodation seven days a week at Plas y Brenin, even though your course only runs Monday to Friday. That way you will be free to either join in with other courses taking place at the weekends or simply go climbing or paddling with your new-found friends at the National Mountain Centre. What is more, you will enjoy three hearty meals a day, overlooking Snowdon in our scenic dining room. During this intensive and exciting course you will receive personal skills training in kayaking, open canoeing, hill and mountain walking, rock climbing, first aid, orienteering and risk awareness and hazard management. As part of a personalised programme, you will complete coaching and leadership training courses for the following: Single Pitch Award Walking Group Leader Award Mountain Leader Award (Summer) Mountain Leader Award (Winter) Mountain Instructor Award International Mountain Leader Award Training British Orienteering Federation Instructor Award REC Standard First aid Level 2 Kayak Coach Level 2 Canoe Coach Level 3 Kayak Coach Level 3 Canoe Coach BCU White Water Safety Off Site Safety Management Certificate SMBLA Trail Bike Leader Days: 90 Cost: £8,450
Criteria:
You require no previous experience to apply for a place, however the direction your course will take will be dependent on your skills. There are a limited number of places available and it is expected that the demand for these will be high. The scheme will run from Monday 8th January to Friday 27th April 2007 and the course fee will be £8,450. If you are interested in applying for the scheme please send the enclosed information form together with a CV to the Director of Training, the closing date will be the 27th October 2006.
Contact: John Cousins, Director of Training Phone:01690 720 214
Email: info@pyb.co.uk Website: www.pyb.co.uk
 

 

 
The Outdoor Partnership:
Welsh Assembly Government, Sports Council for Wales, Plas Menai, Plas y Brenin, Conway Centre, NE Wales Outdoor Education Service, Nant Bwlch yr Haearn, Mountain Leader Training Wales, Snowdonia-Active, University of Wales Bangor, Cyngor Gwynedd, Anglesey County Council, Conwy County Borough Council, The Countryside Council for Wales, Urdd Gobaith Cymru.