Careers in the Outdoors

[spud_23]

Does anyone here have outdoor pursuits as part of their career?

im trying to get myself qualified to be an instructor so i can open my own business once i get the experience.. but it seems that unless you have all the NGB qualifications then no one will take you on? even as an apprentice/trainee!
looking at it.. its gonna cost 5 grand at least to get all the qualifications i need.. so how the hell do i do that one then?!

its what i need to get a job to get the money to pay for it... vicious circle or what!



Rant over..


anyone got experience in this?

One very careerless and confused Spud

 

[Limaed]

Spud,

If you go on this site: http://www.bluedome.co.uk/jobs/subindex/entrylevel.html and look at the jobs a lot of them have 'Earn & Learn' which basically means you get paid a pittance but get lots of experience in the industry and eventually build up to getting some qualifications. Another option is the 'Nightwatch' scheme that some outdoor centers run http://www.glenmorelodge.org.uk/jobdisplay.asp?id=80 however the competition is probably fierce.
There's no short cut to Outdoor Leadership qualifications, don't forget you have total responsibility for others hence the long apprenticeship, but its a good industry to work in. If all else fails consider joining up, the forces still have lots of opportunities to gain outdoor leadership qualifications although its a less direct route. Good luck!