Outdoor Activity Instructor Apprenticeship
Outdoor Activity Instructor Apprenticeship
This dynamic apprenticeship offers an exciting opportunity for outdoor activity centres, schools, or environmental organisations to develop new or existing staff into confident, skilled outdoor instructors. Based at South Devon College and delivered in partnership with the European Geoparks Network, this programme is perfect for those passionate about outdoor learning, adventure, and environmental education.
As an Outdoor Instructor apprentice, you’ll lead and deliver engaging outdoor learning sessions that support participants to build confidence, develop new skills, take on team challenges and, most importantly, enjoy the experience. You’ll learn how to prepare and pack down sessions, manage equipment safely, and use sound judgement to handle incidents, escalating appropriately when needed. Respect for the environment and the ability to inspire others to care for the natural world are essential values embedded in this course.
This apprenticeship also highlights the unique geological link to the English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark and includes specialist content that connects with the European Geoparks programme. It is proudly endorsed by Nikolaos Zouros, Chair of the Global Geopark Network Association.
With guidance from a dedicated Training Officer, your learning plan will be tailored to suit your career goals and may include industry-recognised qualifications such as:
British Canoeing FSRT and Paddle Sports Instructor
Mountain Training awards
Climbing Wall Instructor Training
Outdoor First Aid
Safeguarding certification
If you haven’t yet achieved English and maths at Level 2, you may need to complete these as part of the apprenticeship.
Important Information
To enrol in this apprenticeship, you will need to secure a relevant employer placement. If you’re not yet employed, South Devon College can support you with:
Current Apprenticeship Vacancies at South Devon College
National Apprenticeship Listings on GOV.UK
Our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way, with expert advice on finding an employer, writing a CV, and preparing for interviews, so you can launch your career as a professional outdoor instructor.
You should have a genuine interest in this subject
Please note that some of our apprenticeship programmes have minimum entry requirements, particularly regarding English and maths, as set out by Skills England and funding rules.
Preparing for sessions by gathering information about the participants and resources
Delivering sessions by briefing participants, maintaining safety and providing ongoing instruction and encouragement
Meeting session outcomes
Closing the session by handing over participants, returning resources and equipment, and logging any issues












