Since opening in 2022, our team has worked relentlessly to create an inclusive climbing community where people of all ages and abilities can challenge themselves, grow in confidence and discover what they are capable of.
From first time climbers to experienced competitors, we support individuals to develop new skills, overcome challenges and achieve personal goals in a safe, welcoming and encouraging environment. Through expert instruction, positive relationships and a passion for climbing, we help people build resilience, confidence and a sense of belonging.
Our climbing community spans generations, from young children taking their first steps onto the wall to experienced climbers continuing their journey decades later. We believe climbing has the power to strengthen both physical and mental wellbeing, helping people discover their strengths and shape their own futures.
If you are passionate about climbing, committed to safety and driven by inspiring others to achieve more than they thought possible, this is where your work can make life-changing impact.
Role Highlights
Job Title: Climbing Instructor
Location: YMCA Community & Activity Village, Lord Hawke Way, Newark
Salary: £26,759
Hours: 37.5 hours per week across days, evening and weekends.
The Role:
Interact positively and confidently with climbers, their families and any visitors to the Climbing Centre, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
Support and lead on our entire timetable of sessions including boulder tots, youth climbing, NICAS and Wild Climbers, Clip n climb sessions as well as adult coaching and community sessions
Work as part of the team to open and close the Climbing Centre.
Shared with the rest of the team, respond to enquiries, make bookings, update registers, and send out email communications.
Floor-walk and act as a “lifeguard” within the facility, able to rescue someone in an emergency, if required.
Perform health & safety checks, record and report any issues including any safeguarding concerns.
Support with route setting and maintenance of the bouldering areas and main climbing walls.
Perform first aid when required.
Train and support Climbing assistants
Assist with the organising and running of large events and bookings including NICAS competitions.
About you
You will first and foremost be both a passionate and competent climber, holding your Climbing Wall (CWI) or Rock Climbing (RCI) Instructor qualification. You will enjoy climbing as a hobby and be excited to share this with others.
You will have fantastic communication skills, able to engage with a variety of people from different background, different ages and different climbing abilities. You will be a natural coach, able to inspire or encourage no matter who you are working with.
You will also be able to manage and instruct a group of climbers, ensuring they remain safe at all times. You will have great customer service skills ensuring the customer has a great experience no matter if this is a one off visit or a weekly climb.
You will need to be fairly flexible to cover shifts across our opening hours which are Monday to Sunday – 9am to 9pm although this will all be discussed on an individual basis to find a rota pattern that suits you.
It would be an advantage if you were already first aid qualified although we are happy to support you achieve this qualification if required.
What We Value
We’re driven by our core values and we look for these in every member of our team:
We Seek Out – We’re always looking for ways to do better
We Welcome – We include, respect, and support everyone
We Inspire – We believe in every person’s potential
We Speak Out – We advocate for what’s right
We Serve Others – We act with compassion and purpose
These values are more than just words—they shape how we work, lead, and serve.
Our North Star
Everything we do is inspired by our ambition that every child and young person we support:
Builds the relationships that help them discover who they are
Develops the skills and confidence to shape their own life
Learns how to connect with and contribute to the world around them
You will play a vital role in achieving this mission.
Our Benefits
We value your commitment and relentless dedication and have crafted a package of health & well-being benefits. Here’s some of what you can expect:
Funded training, qualifications & career progression across YMCA services
Quarterly Campfires – celebrating our impact across the organisation
Wellbeing package (after passing probation): 24/7 GP access, health/dental cashback, Employment Assistance Programme
Minimum of 23 days annual leave (plus bank holidays), increasing to 28 days with service
Discounted YMCA childcare & holiday clubs
£500 refer-a-friend bonus
Blue Light Card eligibility + 10% discount at YMCA Café and Malt Cross
Diversity & Safer Recruitment
YMCA Robin Hood Group is committed to equal opportunities, promoting diversity, and creating an inclusive culture where all staff can thrive.
Should you require any adjustments to support your full participation in our recruitment process, we would encourage you to share your needs with us so we can support you with your requirements. Please contact us in the first instance.
We follow rigorous safer recruitment processes to ensure the protection of children, young people, and adults at risk. All applicants will be subject to enhanced DBS checks, reference checks, and thorough vetting as part of our commitment to safeguarding.
Ready to Apply?
If you're looking for a career with purpose, challenge and the opportunity to genuinely change lives, we'd love to hear from you.
Please share your CV with us!!
What Happens Next?
We reserve the right to close the position earlier than advertised if required.
Due to the large number of applications we receive, we will be unable to provide specific feedback on why you may not have been shortlisted.
For an informal conversation before applying, please reach out to us and we would be delighted to help
Salary description
£26759.00 - £26759.00 per year