Job roles, skills, and qualifications

Job Roles in the Leisure Industry

Leisure Manager: Responsible for the overall running of a leisure facility. This could include a sports centre, theme park, or theatre. Tasks may include staff management, budget control, and ensuring health and safety standards are met.
Fitness Instructor/Personal Trainer: Instructs individuals or groups in exercise activities and the mechanics of physical fitness. May work on a freelance basis or be hired by a gym or leisure centre.
Outdoor Activities Instructor: Guides and teaches individuals in outdoor activities such as rock climbing, kayaking, or hiking. Requires specialised knowledge in the chosen field(s).
Event Coordinator: Organises leisure events, including sports events, concerts or festivals. Roles vary but may include managing logistics, coordinating with suppliers, and overseeing event marketing.
Tourist Information Centre Adviser: Provides information and advice about local attractions, accommodations, transport and more. A high level of customer service skills is required.

Key Skills in the Leisure Industry

Customer Service: Vital in any leisure role. Includes communication skills, patience, and problem-solving abilities.
Physical Fitness: Important for many roles, particularly instructing or coaching physical activities.
Problem-Solving: Ability to identify and resolve issues quickly and efficiently. Critical in managerial positions and event organisation.
Leadership and Teamwork: Essential for supervisory roles and team-based activities.
Organisation and Time Management: Crucial for roles that involve managing events, schedules or staff timetables.

Qualifications for the Leisure Industry

Level 2 Certificate/Diploma in Leisure Operations: Entry level qualification for those interested in leisure management roles.
Level 3 Certificate/Diploma in Leisure Management: For those seeking supervisory or managerial roles.
Level 2/3 Certificate in Fitness Instructing: Necessary for roles as a gym instructor or personal trainer.
Outdoor Activity Instructor qualifications: Depending on the activities offered, instructors might need climbing qualifications, watersports qualifications, or others.
Event Management Degree: Beneficial for those interested in event organisation roles within the leisure industry. Alternatively, practical experience can also be helpful.