OUTDOOR INSTRUCTOR TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES

Mendip Adventure is an industry leader in outdoor adventure training with a long-standing reputation for turning outdoor lovers into professional outdoor instructors. We provide two main routes for people looking to join the outdoor activity industry:
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An 18-Week Intensive Training Course
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A 12-month apprenticeship
Details of both options are below. If you would like to discuss these with someone further or receive free career advice, please email hi@mendip.co.uk or fill in our Outdoor Instructor Training enquiry form here.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITY INSTRUCTOR APPRENTICESHIP
Location: Mendip Activity Centre, Mendip Hills
Closing Date: 4th July
Interview: 19th-20th July
Start Date: w/c 25th August
Salary: TBC
Holiday: 28 days paid holiday
Mendip have been running Outdoor Activity Instructor Apprenticeships for over 25 years. Each year we hand-pick a small number of apprentices from a large pool of applicants.
Over 12 months, you’ll undertake several instructor courses, develop your skills, and build real experience in all areas of a busy outdoor centre. On top of this, you'll undertake a Level 3 Outdoor Activity Instructor Apprenticeship with South Devon College. Time will be split between instructor training, college time, shadowing qualified staff, and supporting the day-to-day operation of Mendip Activity Centre.
Qualifications you'll gain
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Paddle UK Explore Award
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Paddle UK Safety and Rescue Course
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Paddlesport Instructor
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UKSS Level 1 Ski Foundation Instructor Training and Assessment
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Archery Leader
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Air Rifle Instructor
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ITC Level 3 Outdoor First Aid Award
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UK Coaching Safeguarding and Protecting Children
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Rock Climbing Instructor Training
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Cave Leader Training
You'll also gain:
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Level 3 Outdoor Activity Instructor Apprenticeship with South Devon College
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Experience supporting the day-to-day operations of a busy activity centre
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Site-specific training on several activities such as Axe Throwing, ArcheryActive, Assault Course and Bushcraft
Apply Now
To apply, please fill in the application form below. You need to be 18+ to apply and no experience is required.
18-WEEK ACCELERATED OUTDOOR INSTRUCTOR TRAINING COURSE
Looking for another route into the outdoor industry? Become an instructor in 18 weeks; undertake 20 qualifications and gain experience on expeditions, trips and courses. All accommodation, catering, trips, expeditions, training and kit is provided in our paid Accelerated Outdoor Instructor Training course!
Start Date: 2nd November 2025
This course is designed for those who are ready to commit, dive deep, and fast-track their outdoor career. It’s perfect if you’re looking for an immersive experience where you’ll gain top-tier qualifications, build confidence, and live and learn alongside like-minded people.
With no distractions and everything taken care of - accommodation, food, kit and travel - you can focus fully on your development. Whether you’re changing careers, taking a gap year, or simply chasing a new direction, this course gives you the structure, support and momentum to get started as a professional instructor, quickly and confidently.
What's included in the course
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20 National Governing Body courses and qualifications
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Fully catered accommodation
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UK expeditions and a European ski trip
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Professional training in Climbing, Hill Walking, Paddlesports, Skiing, Caving, and more
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Personal mentoring and career guidance
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Full equipment package
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Access to shadowing opportunities
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Guaranteed job interview won completion of the course
What qualifications and courses are included?
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Rock Climbing Instructor Training and Assessment
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Lowland Leader Award Training and Assessment
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Mountain Training Hill Skills
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Mountain Training Rock Skills
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Teaching Orienteering Part 1
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Cave Leader Level 1 Training and Assessment
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Paddlesport Leader Training and Assessement
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Sheltered Water Kayak and Canoe Coach Training and Assessment
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Paddle UK Explore Award
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Paddlesport Safety and Rescue Course
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Intro to White Water
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UKSS Level 1 Ski Foundation Instructor Training and Assessment
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Archery Leader Training & Assessment
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National Small-Bore Rifle Association (NRSA) Rifle Instructor Training & Assessment
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ITC Level 3 Outdoor First Aid Award
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UK Coaching Safeguarding and Protecting Children
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Food Hygiene Level 2 Certificate
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UK Government Enhanced DBS
About Mendip
Mendip Adventure is one of the UK’s leading independent outdoor activity and training providers, with nearly four decades of experience helping people make time for real, meaningful adventure. There are several brands in the Mendip Adventure group including Mendip Activity Centre, Mendip Basecamp, SUP Bristol and YHA Cheddar.
As a family-run, independent organisation, we do things differently. We recognise the potential of all our team, invest in your growth, and celebrate your wins. From first-timers to full-time instructors, we’ve helped hundreds of people turn a passion for adventure into a professional path.
Our base is a stunning 250-acre site in the Mendip Hills with a private quarry, dry ski slope and award-winning campsite. Everything we offer is shaped by our belief in Respecting Risk, Nature, and Choice. We deliver over 20 adventurous activities, offer camping and residential stays, and provide industry-leading training.