Programme Volunteers work with young people at our camps or activity days, supporting them to get the most out of the experience. They take part in all the activities alongside the young people, but there’s no requirement to have experience of outdoor activities as these are all delivered by qualified instructors.

As a Programme Volunteer you will support the welfare of the young people; from encouraging them to challenge themselves, supporting their social relationships and promoting teamwork, to ensuring they have their packed lunch and get to the activity on time.

You’ll have the chance to try out a huge array of outdoor activities, and find yourself having all kinds of memorable adventures; from building your own shelter in the woods to pitching an overnight camp with a canoe! Away from the camps we also have art, music and drama days for our creative young people, as well as adventure and team challenge themed sessions.

Working alongside other volunteers and staff to support a team of young people during the programme, your communication, resilience and teamwork skills will certainly be tested! People also often tell us they had no idea how much they would personally gain from volunteering. We can’t promise it will always be easy, but we can certainly promise you’ll help make a real impact on the lives of vulnerable young people.

  • Requirements

    Applicants must;

    • Be aged over 21 years old;
    • Undertake an enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service check; and
    • Provide two references.

    Programme Volunteers need to be enthusiastic, resilient, motivated and hardworking. They should be responsible individuals, able to act as positive role models to our vulnerable young people, and willing to get involved in a wide range of activities.

    Previous experience of working with young people would be beneficial but is not essential.  No formal qualifications are required.

    Programme Volunteers can commit to help at our residential camps, on day activities, or at both, depending on their availability.

    The Youth Adventure Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and expects all volunteers to share this commitment.

  • Training

    Training for our Programme Volunteers is offered through an annual training weekend where accommodation and food is provided. Wherever possible new volunteers should attend, although alternative arrangements may be available. We also offer additional day and evening sessions, online training, access to a range of resources and the dedicated support of a Volunteer Manager.

    If you are already a volunteer, log in here selecting Programme Volunteers, then scroll down to Training and Resources, where you will find our safeguarding young people interactive training module and helpful additional reading and resources.

  • How to Apply

    You’ll find the full role description here with more information and details of how to apply. Alternatively get in touch with our Volunteer Managers for a chat about how you can get involved.

  • Testimonials