Outdoor apprenticeships offer a practical route into a fast-growing industry — supporting individuals looking to build active, people-focused careers and employers developing skilled teams for outdoor education, recreation, and retail. At Skern Training & Skills, our outdoor apprenticeship programmes combine on-the-job training, real-world experience, and industry-recognised qualifications.
For learners, outdoor apprenticeships provide the opportunity to earn while you learn, build confidence in outdoor environments, and gain skills that lead to long-term careers across the outdoor sector. For employers, apprenticeships offer a sustainable way to recruit, train, and retain motivated staff with the practical skills needed to deliver high-quality outdoor experiences.
We currently offer a range of outdoor and activity-based apprenticeship programmes, including:
- Outdoor Activity Instructor (Level 3)
- Outdoor Learning Specialist (Level 5)
- Community Activator Coach (Level 2)
- Customer Service Practitioner – Outdoor Retail (Level 2)
Outdoor recreation is a growing industry, contributing over £22 billion to the UK economy, with increasing demand for skilled instructors, educators, coaches, and customer-facing professionals.
These apprenticeships suit people who enjoy working outdoors, supporting others, and staying active, as well as employers committed to developing confident, qualified teams. Complete our contact form and a member of the Skern Training & Skills team will be in touch to discuss the right programme for you.
Download our apprenticeships brochure, or view our sector courses
Download the brochureSee our coursesThe facts
85%
of UK adults say spending time in nature boosts their happiness and wellbeing.
37,000
premature deaths a year in the UK are linked to physical inactivity.
£22bn
is the approximate annual contribution of outdoor recreation to the UK economy.
64%
of UK adults now meet recommended activity levels, reflecting growing participation in active and outdoor lifestyles.
Apprenticeship Courses
Outdoor Activity Instructor
Lead introductory outdoor activities such as climbing, paddling, and cycling, building skills in safety, risk management, and outdoor instruction.
Outdoor Activity Instructor
Lead introductory outdoor activities such as climbing, paddling, and cycling, building skills in safety, risk management, and outdoor instruction.
Outdoor Learning Specialist
Design and deliver purposeful outdoor learning programmes that support personal development and learning through experience.
Outdoor Learning Specialist
Design and deliver purposeful outdoor learning programmes that support personal development and learning through experience.
Community Activator Coach
Plan and lead inclusive physical activities that encourage people of all ages to be more active within local communities.
Community Activator Coach
Plan and lead inclusive physical activities that encourage people of all ages to be more active within local communities.
Customer Service Practitioner (Outdoor Retail)
Provide expert customer service in outdoor retail, helping customers choose the right clothing, footwear, and equipment for outdoor activities.
Customer Service Practitioner (Outdoor Retail)
Provide expert customer service in outdoor retail, helping customers choose the right clothing, footwear, and equipment for outdoor activities.
Working with some of the UK's best
The benefits of an apprenticeship
Employer benefits
Apprenticeships allow employers to shape their workforce based on their specific needs. By providing targeted training and hands-on experience, employers can develop a team of skilled and competent workers who are aligned with their business goals.
- Build a workforce with practical skills in activity leadership, outdoor learning, safety, and customer support.
- Strengthen retention by offering staff a role that’s active, meaningful, and connected to nature.
- Attract motivated individuals who care about supporting others in the outdoors.
- Support progression in your team by offering recognised qualifications and clear development routes.
- Access flexible funding to train apprentices in roles across the outdoor sector.
Apprentice benefits
Agricultural and Farming Apprenticeships offer a range of benefits for employees which can enhance their skills, career opportunities, and personal development.
- Earn recognised qualifications for roles such as outdoor activity instructor, activity leader, community coach, or customer service practitioner.
- Spend your working day outdoors, helping people gain confidence and enjoy new experiences.
- Build practical skills in teamwork, communication, organisation, and leadership.
- Improve your own well-being by learning and working in natural environments.
- Make a positive difference to others through activities that support health and personal growth.
- Access guidance from a mentor who will support your progress and help you plan your next steps.
- Set yourself up for a long-term career with strong progression routes in the outdoor sector.
The value of building outdoor experiences into an expanding pool of apprenticeship opportunities
How apprenticeships are becoming widely recognised as all-round beneficial
Read more
FAQs
Will I be paid during the apprenticeship?
Yes. Apprentices receive a salary from their employer throughout the programme. Pay can vary depending on the employer and apprenticeship level.
What support will I get during my apprenticeship?
Throughout your apprenticeship, you’ll receive ongoing support and mentoring from experienced workplace staff and Skern Training & Skills assessors. This includes regular reviews, feedback, and personal development support to help you build skills, confidence, and progress successfully through your apprenticeship.
Who are Outdoor Education apprenticeships for?
This apprenticeship is perfect for anyone with a passion for the outdoors and education. People who aspire to become outdoor activity leaders or managers are the ideal candidates for this apprenticeship.
What skills will I learn through the apprenticeship?
Apprentices learn a variety of skills, including:
- Outdoor leadership and group management
- Risk assessment and safety protocols
- Environmental education and interpretation
- Technical skills in activities like hiking, kayaking, or rock climbing
- Program development and logistical planning
- Communication and teaching techniques
What qualifications will I gain?
Upon completing your apprenticeship, you will gain a nationally recognised qualification specific to your apprenticeship program, as well as practical experience and skills in your chosen field.
Can I stay in my role once my apprenticeship ends?
Many apprentices are offered permanent positions with their employer upon successful completion of their apprenticeship, though this depends on the employer's needs and your performance during the program.
Why should I choose an Outdoor Education apprenticeship?
Outdoor Education apprenticeships offer a practical route into a rewarding career in the outdoor and activity sector. You’ll gain industry-recognised qualifications, build transferable skills such as leadership, communication, and risk management, and develop real-world experience while earning as you learn. These apprenticeships prepare you to support others in enjoying the outdoors safely, confidently, and responsibly, with progression opportunities across outdoor education, recreation, and community settings.
Who is an Outdoor Education apprenticeship for?
Our Outdoor Education apprenticeships suit people who enjoy working with others and staying active. While the courses are open to everyone, this particular programme is a great fit if you:
- Have lots of energy and love spending time outdoors
- Enjoy working with children, young people, and adults
- Want to build practical skills through real-world experience
How long does an Outdoor Education apprenticeship take?
Most Outdoor Education apprenticeships take between 12 and 18 months to complete. However, our Level 3 Outdoor Activity Instructor apprenticeship can be completed in just 9 months, making it ideal for seasonal outdoor providers and employers who need flexible, efficient training that fits around peak operational periods.
Where can an Outdoor Education apprenticeship take me?
An outdoor apprenticeship can lead to a wide range of careers across the outdoor education and activity sector. Many apprentices progress into roles such as Outdoor Activity Instructor, Outdoor Learning Coordinator, Community Activator Coach, or Outdoor Retail Adviser. Others choose to advance into leadership or management roles, or continue their development through higher-level qualifications within outdoor centres, education providers, and community or adventure-based organisations.
