Instructor Development Scheme (IDS) 2026-2027
Based at Glenmore Lodge, Aviemore
sportscotland is the national agency for sport in Scotland. Our vision is an active Scotland where everyone benefits from sport.
sportscotland Glenmore Lodge is Scotland’s National Outdoor Training Centre, where our aim is to offer world class training in outdoor adventure sports and encourage more people to enjoy the outdoors more often.
We’re offering an exciting training scheme opportunity for four motivated individuals, aimed at supporting outdoor leaders and instructors in furthering their outdoor career to the next level.
This is a one-year programme for those suitably experienced and interested in developing their career as an outdoor instructor. We will provide opportunities to gain high level qualifications through both a tailored and mentored experience, along with peer learning, coaching/instructional placements and personal development.
The minimum qualifications we are looking for in our April 2026 intake are Summer Mountain Leader Assessment, Rock Climbing Instructor and BC Paddlesport Instructor & Leader.
You will spend 20 hours per week contributing to the running of the Centre. In addition, you will also be offered instructional opportunities in addition to your standard 20 hours per week. The rest of the time will be a mix of programmed opportunities, self-programmed time to get out with peers and attend training/qualification courses.
In return for this opportunity, sportscotland expects the successful candidates to contribute to the operation of the Centre, primarily fulfilling key roles within the Centre both at evening reception, overnight and a Centre support role.
In accordance with the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007, placement in the Scheme will be conditional on a successful applicant being able to obtain PVG membership.
As part of the Scheme, this role is paid at the Real Living Wage (currently £12.60 per hour) for your 20 hours per week evening duties.
In addition to the IDS role, you will have the opportunity to work on the Schools and Summer programme and deliver a positive introductory experience to outdoor sports. This role is on a casual Centre Instructor contract, which is currently paid at £17.13 per hour.
As this is a residential appointment there will be a deduction for accommodation in the IDS staff house (currently £275 per month).
If you have any questions about the Scheme, please review the information sheet, email idsrecruitment@glenmorelodge.org.uk or call 01479 861256.
To apply, please complete the application form and return this to idsrecruitment@glenmorelodge.org.uk.
At sportscotland inclusion underpins everything we do. We encourage applications from the right candidates regardless of age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, belief, race, caring responsibilities, care experience or social background.
We are a Disability Confident employer. If you have any difficulties with your application because of a disability, please contact hr.recruitment@sportscotland.org.uk and we will discuss how we can help you.
The closing date for applications is Sunday 5 October 2025 at 23:59.
Selection will take place from the evening of Monday 27 October to Wednesday 29 October.
The Instructor Development Scheme runs from 29 March 2026 to 9 April 2027.