A volunteer role to kickstart your career as an outdoor instructor!
Read all the information about this opportunity carefully, then use the application button below to send your CV and application.
Take part in our 12-month UK Volunteer Trainee Instructor Programme - this is a voluntary role (unpaid) and a unique chance to gain practical, hands-on experience working with young people, earn relevant industry recognised qualifications and build friendships that last a lifetime!
Whether you have recently finished A levels or College, on a gap year from university, or ready to turn your passion for the great outdoors into a rewarding career – this is your chance to build real life skills, grow your confidence and take the first step on the ladder of an exciting career.
And if you’re a UK Scout or Guide, you already understand the benefits of taking part in outdoor activities. It’s that spirit of adventure, and belief in the power of the outdoors to teach skills for life that led you to look at this programme today.
Programme details
* UK Trainee volunteer placement runs from September 2025 to September 2026
* Theres a further programme running from January 2026 to November 2026
* You’ll commit to around 40 hours per week (spread across 5 days with evenings and weekends included)
* Up to 23 days off during the placement
* Shorter placements can be discussed
Youll be part of an amazing team delivering unforgettable experiences to thousands of young people. As a volunteer trainee instructor, youll learn new skills, gain qualifications and play a huge part in creating life-changing adventures - all while preparing for a future career in the outdoors.
We welcome applications from anyone based in the UK, aged 18+ (at the start of the placement) with an interest in outdoor learning and adventure. Being part of Scouts, Guides or another youth organisation is advantageous but not essential.
Whats in it for you?
* Induction - Full course in instructing skills, first aid, safeguarding, customer service and more.
* Outdoor qualifications - Complete a range of courses including ERCA High Ropes, Target Sports, Water Sports, Mountain Training, First Aid and Health and safety.
* Instructing experience - Log hundreds of hours of hands-on experience instructing youth groups and learning all about centre operations.
* Living - Live on-site with our residential volunteers from around the world, with all meals and uniform covered.
* Expenses - Receive a weekly allowance of £35 plus reimbursement for direct costs.
There are 30 volunteer places available on the volunteer programme spread across five of our centres:
Broadstone Warren, East Sussex:
Within the idyllic Weald area of outstanding natural beauty, Broadstone Warren is 400 acres of adventure in the Ashdown Forest close to the town of East Grinstead, just an hours train journey to central London.
Fordell Firs, Edinburgh:
A beautiful site on the outskirts of Edinburgh. This is the home of Scottish HQ and has a wide range of onsite activities, and easy access for adventures in the rest of Scotland.
Gilwell Park, London:
Based just outside London but with the tranquillity of a woodland location. This is an iconic location - the spiritual home of Scouting and the location of UK headquarters.
Great Tower, Lake District:
A stunning site in the heart of the Lake District, with England’s best mountains and lakes on the doorstep, and the coast and caves just a short distance away.
Youlbury, Oxford:
A beautiful woodland centre. This is the worlds oldest permanent Scout Camp and is just 3 miles from the historic city of Oxford.
For more information, or to apply, visit: www.scoutadventures.org.uk/uk-volunteer-instructor-programme
If you have any questions, email: volunteering@scoutadventures.org.uk