Qualifications
To work as a sports coach or instructor in the UK and EU, you will typically need to have the appropriate qualifications and certifications, for a specialist job experience is also essential but there are plenty of entry level jobs where even a basic ticket will make you stand out. The specific qualifications required vary depending on the level of coaching, the sport, and the organisation you want to work for and obviously the country you are working in.
Traditional & ball sports
Most sports in the UK & Ireland have their own National Governing Bodies, and they offer coaching qualifications specific to their sport. Examples include the Football Association (FA), England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), and the FA of Ireland Kickstart courses. These courses obviously have multiple levels, from beginner to advanced. Most seasonal jobs require the basic ones but specialist and performance camps employ instructors of higher levels.
Outdoor and adventure sports
Outdoor and adventure sports work in much the same way. This system now works nationally so the Scottish, Welsh and English Mountain Training Boards coordinate but administrate awards such as Summer Mountain Leader, Walking Group Leader and climbing qualifications like the Single Pitch Climbing award. In Ireland the MTBI covers the Island of Ireland and is a member of Mountain Training UK and Ireland, as are the various mountaineering councils and prominent training centres.
Sports jobs help guide
A closer look at each category of outdoor sports jobs and courses
Latest outdoor sports jobs and courses
Flotilla Skipper
Job Title: Flotilla SkipperCompany: Sailing Holidays LTDLocation: Corfu, GreecePlease note: Due to visa requirements, we can only accept applications
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NA
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Provided
JCA 2025 - Catering Assistant
JCA Catering Assistant - 2025We are looking for Catering Assistants to join our vibrant team at our Children’s Activity Centre, Condover Hall which is
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Up to £11.55 per hour - Increasing in April
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Not provided
Maritime Futures Programme
Maritime Futures Programme is a hands-on, immersive introduction to maritime training and careers on and around the water. The course is an ideal oppo
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£525
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Provided
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