Looking for More Than Just a Job? Try a Career with Adventure.
An Alternative to the Usual 9–5
If you’re looking for something beyond the usual 9–5, our Level 3 Outdoor Activity Instructor Apprenticeship could be the answer. It’s exciting. It’s different. It’s hands-on.
You’ll work with young people and adults from all walks of life. You’ll grow your outdoor qualifications. You’ll also develop wider employment skills that will last a lifetime.
Learn at Cobnor Activities Centre Trust
At Cobnor Activities Centre Trust (CACT), you’ll gain real, practical experience in the outdoors. You’ll work towards industry-recognised qualifications. You’ll also build valuable skills that will set you up for success in the great outdoors.
Programme Details
The programme runs from 9th November 2026 to December 2027. There’s also potential for a fixed-term contract afterwards.
We partner with Locomotivation, our trusted training provider. They focus on your academic learning. We focus on helping you grow as a professional.
The apprenticeship lasts 13 months. You’ll work 40 hours per week over five days, following a rolling rota. Your starting salary will be the national apprenticeship wage. After 12 months, this will rise to the national minimum wage for your age group.
When you finish, you may have the chance to stay on as a seasonal instructor. This gives you the chance to gain even more practical experience straight after the programme ends.
A Supportive Team
You’ll join a welcoming and experienced team. They’re passionate about what they do and committed to making each day fun.
We’ll support you every step of the way, you’ll get guidance and you’ll get encouragement. Each day there’s a chance to grow in confidence and build the foundations for a rewarding career.
Life as an Apprentice
Life here is far from ordinary. You won’t just be leading sessions, each day includes gaining real-world experience, building your confidence, and developing the skills needed for a successful and rewarding career in the outdoor industry.
And the setting? Simply stunning.
One day you might sail across Chichester Harbour with the wind in your hair. Another day you could be behind the wheel of a RIB, heading to East Head. Or perhaps you’ll kayak down to Bosham.
No two days are the same. There’s never a dull moment when you’re part of the Cobnor team.
Important Information
- To become part of the team, you must be over 18 years old by 30 April 2027.
- During the 13-month course period, you will be on a 40-hour week contract (5 days a week, 8 hours a day based on a rolling rota) and will earn the national apprenticeship wage.
- After a successful 12 months, apprentices will see their salary rise to the national minimum wage (within age bracket).
- Opportunity to continue employment as a fully fledged instructor for another season
- Any additional hours will be paid based on your basic hourly rate.
- Accommodation is NOT included as part of the programme.
We welcome people from all backgrounds, abilities, and experiences to join our apprenticeship. Whether you’re a school leaver, changing careers, or seeking a fresh challenge, you’ll find a place here. Outdoor skills can be learned — what matters is enthusiasm, a willingness to learn, and a love for adventure. At Cobnor, we believe diverse perspectives make our team stronger and our activities richer for everyone.
Qualifications may include
Sailing – RYA Keelboat Instructor and RYA Dinghy Instructor
Paddling – PaddleUK Awards (kayak, canoe, paddleboarding)
Powerboating – RYA Powerboat Level 2 and RYA Safety boat
First Aid – Level 3 Outdoor First Aid
In house training – Tree Climbing, High Ropes, Rafting, Low ropes, Archery, Camp craft, Pioneering, and many more
Cobnor recognises further individual progression and personal career development and offer extra opportunities to staff who may have a desire to gain more skills and qualifications.
How to Apply
To apply, you must be available for a taster day on the 21st September 2026 and an in-person interview on October 5th.
Complete an online form expressing your interest in the Apprenticeship Programme where an invitation and details for the taster day will follow. The taster day will give you the opportunity to partake in some of our activities, meet your potential new colleagues and get a feel for life at Cobnor. Here’s your chance to demonstrate why you’re the perfect fit for this exciting Apprenticeship.