Level 3 Outdoor Activity Instructor

Course Overview

An Outdoor Activity Instructor supervises and guides children and adults in activities and pastimes such as canoeing, sailing, climbing, surfing, cycling, hillwalking, archery, bushcraft, rock pooling, geology, plant identification, habitat or wildlife walks at an introductory level. They will be supervised while working in a limited range of venues and weather conditions following tightly defined operating procedures.

Outdoor Activity Instructors may undertake their apprenticeship with an employer who specialises in a particular client group (individuals or groups, specific age range, mental and physical ability) or range of activities offered.

 

Course Length

15-18 months

Levy Funding

Maximum £6,000 - Non levy employer contribution (5%)

Apprentice Requirements

Have the right to work in England.

Due to the nature of the work within the sector, employers will usually require employees to be 18 years of age or above.

Individual employers will have their own entry requirements, these will typically be existing knowledge and skills relating to the activities the organisation specialises in.

Enthusiasm and a willingness to learn your chosen trade.

Dedication and commitment to coursework and the job.

English and Maths GCSE (or equivalent) grade C or 4. If you do not meet the Maths and English requirements, Marine Society will assist you in gaining your Functional Skills qualification prior to End Point Assessment.

By the end of the apprenticeship, an Outdoor Activity Instructor will be able to do the following:

 

  • Activity planning and delivery: Gain expertise in instructing and leading a range of activities. Know how to plan and deliver a session, through lesson planning and setting objectives.  

 

  • Safety and Risk Management: Be proficient in assessing and managing risks associated with outdoor activities.

 

  • Equipment and Gear: Knowledge of the equipment and gear required for different outdoor activities, including how to properly fit and use the equipment.

 

  • Communication and Leadership: Develop effective communication and leaderships skills. Know how to manage groups of participants, organise activities and provide clear instructions. Adapt to different learning styles and foster a positive and inclusive environment.

 

Career Options and Progression

 

Completing an Outdoor Activity Instructor apprenticeship opens up a range of exciting opportunities within the outdoor education and adventure industry.

After completing this apprenticeship, you may choose to specialise in an area allowing you to become an expert instructor. With experience and further training, you can progress to management roles at outdoor centres of adventure facilities. You may choose to work in outdoor education settings, collaborating with schools and colleges to deliver outdoor activity programs or design curriculum for outdoor activity.

Apprentices can progress onto Outdoor learning specialist L5.

 

Occupational Map

 

Further information

Apprenticeship Standard and End Point Assessment