Further detail:

Marrick Priory is a Christian Outdoor Education Centre set in the heart of Swaledale in the Yorkshire Dales. It enjoys a fantastic setting on the banks of the River Swale and has a unique and historic atmosphere. It was founded 850 years ago as a Benedictine Priory but then dissolved by Henry VIII in 1540. In the 1960s the building was converted into an Outdoor Centre that has grown and developed over the years.

Marrick Priory is a Registered Charity and Company limited by guarantee with a strong link to the Diocese of Leeds (Church of England). There is a pro-active and supportive voluntary management committee who oversee the ethos, development, staffing and financial management of the centre.

The centre is busy all year round with schools, colleges, churches and youth groups who stay for mid weeks or weekends. We also run a day activities programme for non-resident groups from the local area. Groups often follow a broad programme of outdoor activities with the aim of developing personal skills, self-esteem and teamwork.

Staff

A total of 17 full and part-time staff work at the centre. These include: Head of Centre, Deputy Head of Centre, 5 Instructors, Housekeeper, Administrator, Handyman, Development Officer and 6 part-time Domestic staff.

Duties

Work with resident and non-resident groups in and around the Priory, in a caring, considerate and flexible capacity, putting the needs of visiting children and adults first.  Instructing and guiding Outdoor Education courses and sessions to a wide variety of residential and day groups.  Assist with the development and maintenance of Priory facilities and equipment as required.  Assist other members of staff with general duties associated with the running of a residential centre.

Qualifications and Experience

• Experience in working with young people in the outdoors is essential
• Personal experience in a broad range of outdoor activities e.g. walking, climbing, canoeing, orienteering, mountain biking, caving, archery, environmental activities, expeditions etc.
• Some National Governing Body qualifications or evidence of training in areas such as: Climbing Wall Leader, SPA, Rock climbing Instructor, GNAS, UKCC Level 2 coach, Local Cave Leader, Summer Mountain Leader, BOF etc.
• Current, full, clean driving license with 2 years driving experience, preferably with D1 entitlement.
• Current first aid certificate.

There should be a willingness to extend the range of experience and to undertake further training as required.

Personal Outline

Excellent interpersonal skills and a mature disposition are key qualities for this post. They are just as significant as specific NGB qualifications. Applicants must have enthusiasm, empathy and patience to understand and work effectively with children and young people in the outdoor environment. A high standard of personal discipline and professionalism are required. All instructing staff must be able to work on their own and in a small team. Applicants need to be able to understand and communicate the value and benefits of Outdoor Education and support the Christian ethos of the centre.

Conditions of Service

Appointment

We are looking to make an initial full time fixed term appointment for 2024. Permanent contracts are usually offered to candidates once they have gained the necessary skills and experience to complete all aspects of the role.

Salary and benefit package

The salary range is currently £21,673 – £24,274 pa (depending on experience and qualifications)  pay review from 1 April 2024, increase likely to be to a starting point of £23,795pa). Instructors have the opportunity to progress through salary increments as they gain experience and qualifications. Salaries are also reviewed annually in line with inflation. The post holder receives a substantial benefit package worth over £6,000 p.a. This includes:

• Fully furnished separate accommodation.
• Meals provided on working days and days off.
• The Employer meets the cost of council tax, heating, electricity, water, T.V.
• Reasonable use of broadband and computer facilities.
• Loan of Marrick Priory Outdoor equipment.
• Staff discount on equipment purchases.

There is a tax free deduction of £63.70 per week if the post holder wishes to take the accommodation.  If the post holder may live off site in which case there is no deduction.

Other Benefits
The Priory assists with the cost of key relevant NGB training and assessment courses. These are predominantly undertaken within paid working time. Opportunities are available for the successful applicant to build on existing qualifications and broaden into new areas.

Working Arrangement
Considerable variations exist in work periods each week due to the differing needs of residential groups and time of year. When groups are resident we run a rota for evening and weekend work. When groups are not resident then working hours are usually Mon-Fri 9-5pm.

Days off
These will be arranged on a rotational basis by agreement with the Head of Centre. For every 5 days worked you will be entitled to 2 days off.

Holidays
The holiday entitlement is 34 days including bank holidays. The Priory usually closes for 2 weeks at Christmas, 1 week at Easter and 2 weeks in the summer when there are no residential groups. The remaining 9 days leave allowance may be specified or taken at other times of the year by agreement with the Head of Centre.

Probation Period
The first three months will be regarded as a probationary period. The post is subject to satisfactory ongoing medical and DBS record. There will be an ongoing review of the job description.