*Help shape the future of watersports at Bewl Adventures.*
Bewl Adventures is launching a *new watersports programme at Bewl Water*, set within one of the South East’s most iconic outdoor destinations. We’re looking for a *Chief Instructor / Head of Watersports* to play a defining role in building this programme from the ground up.
This is a rare opportunity to take real ownership — shaping the programme’s direction, standards, and culture from day one, rather than stepping into a pre‑existing system. You’ll be trusted to influence how activities are delivered, how teams are developed, and how safety, quality, and enjoyment come together on the water.
If you’re an experienced watersports professional who wants to build something meaningful, lead with confidence, and create an outstanding experience for both participants and staff, this role at Bewl Adventures offers the chance to leave a genuine legacy.
*Overview*
The Chief Instructor & Head of Watersports is the senior technical and instructional lead for all Bewl Adventure activity provision. This role is responsible for driving high standards across safety, training, technical delivery and participant experience for both land‑based and watersports activities.
As the most senior technical role within Bewl Adventure, the Chief Instructor plays a critical part in maintaining operational readiness, staff competency, safeguarding standards and the centre’s reputation for delivering safe, engaging and high‑quality outdoor adventures.
*Key Responsibilities*
*Leadership & Operations*
* Lead the daily delivery of all Bewl Adventure activities, including watersports, climbing, archery, raft building and multi‑sport sessions
* Support the Centre Manager with operational planning, scheduling and staffing
* Supervise instructors, create daily rotas and allocate responsibilities
* Lead daily staff briefings and debriefs
* Ensure all sessions meet Bewl Adventure standards for safety, quality and learning
*Watersports Leadership*
* Act as technical lead for all sailing and paddle sports
* Oversee safety boat operations, weather assessments and rescue protocols
* Deliver training in dinghy sailing, safety boat handling, SUP and water rescue
* Ensure all watersports equipment, PPE and safety craft are maintained and inspected
* Maintain compliance with RYA and British Canoeing guidance
*Safety, Compliance & Training*
* Maintain compliance with SOPs, Risk Assessments and Emergency Action Plans
* Lead incident response, investigation and reporting
* Oversee daily and weekly equipment checks
* Plan and run emergency and rescue drills
* Train, mentor and sign off instructors
* Maintain the Competency & Training Sign‑Off Matrix
*Equipment & Participant Engagement*
* Oversee equipment inventory, PPE care and inspection standards
* Act as a point of contact for visiting teachers and group leaders
* Ensure all participants receive a safe, rewarding Bewl Adventure experience
*Essential Requirements*
*Qualifications*
* RYA Dinghy Instructor (essential)
* RYA Safety Boat Certificate (essential)
* British Canoeing Paddlesport Instructor (or willingness to obtain)
* 16‑hour Outdoor First Aid (preferred)
*Experience & Skills*
* Minimum 2 years’ outdoor / watersports instructing experience
* Previous experience supervising instructors
* Excellent leadership, communication and safety awareness
* Calm, decisive and organised under pressure
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £28,000.00-£33,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Company pension
* Discounted or free food
* Employee discount
* Gym membership
* Health & wellbeing programme
* Life insurance
* On-site parking
* Referral programme
Ability to commute/relocate:
* Royal Tunbridge Wells TN3 8JH: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Experience:
* Outdoor/Watersports: 2 years (required)
Work Location: In person