Scouts National Centres

“Quite honestly, I couldn’t think of a better way to spend my holidays. It can be hard work at times, but the reward from smiles and kids saying “thank you” makes it well worth it. My first year was so much fun, meeting hundreds of new people and being involved in so many unique experiences. My second year was even better, with the international Camp Downe event – that year I met thousands of new people.

The reason I enjoy it all so much is because of the lasting friendships I have made. When you work and live together for the best part of the summer season, you get to know people very well – and have a lot of fun with them.

I don’t think there are many other jobs where I could work on the climbing tower one day, lifeguard the next, clean toilets in the morning, and the buildings in the afternoon, serve in the shop, man the office, cook meals for everyone, park cars, redecorate/paint things, and a whole bunch of other tasks….AND enjoy it all. But I do! And I’ve yet to meet someone who doesn’t love it as much as me!”

Amy Gilham, veteran summer staff volunteer at Downe

Summer staff programme
Through the summer months the centres recruit a team of volunteers and assisted volunteers to help run the activity centres during their busiest period. We try to recruit a balanced team with British, European and non-European staff. Very few qualifications are required, but the items listed below would be helpful:

1. Current membership of a recognised Scout or Guide organisation.
2. A basic level of competence with the English Language.
3. The ability to work as a member of an International Team.
4. Prepared to try anything once.

Who can apply?
Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years of age, there is no upper age limit,
Sex: Applicants can be of either sex.
Job Details: Summer Staff will be expected to help with all functions of running a busy activity centre, tasks will range from serving in the shops, helping to run activities and programmes, cleaning, and anything else that might need doing.

Accommodation:
Accommodation is provided indoors. We can provide bedding if requested.

Applications: An application form can be downloaded here. There are no set dates for applications to be received, but obviously early applications stand a better chance of success.

More information: If you would like to speak with someone about any of the positions available, contact Gilwell Park in the first instance on gilwell.activity.centre@scout.org.uk or call (+44) 208 498 5411

Gilwell Park summer staff vacancies

Summer staff are required for the months of June, July and August and we would expect a minimum stay of six weeks during that period. All staff will have at least one day off each week and there is usually plenty of opportunities to visit local places of interest in the surrounding area. These posts have a one-month training period from the start of April. We will consider applications for a shorter period but will prioritise those that can make the training period. It is essential that you have a good understanding of English, as you will be conversing with guests in this language.

Downe summer staff vacancies

We have spaces for May to September. Each volunteer will need to commit for a minimum of five weeks. You will be part of a friendly, multi-national team that will assist in the running of a National Scout Activity Centre. You will be part of the volunteer staff programme here at Downe Scout Activity Centre. You will receive all food and lodging.

Activity Centre Volunteer Assistant

Downe Scout Activity Centre

Responsible to: Assistant Manager

Dates of contract: Minimum 5 weeks

Main duties:

Assist the Centre Manager to ensure that the site and buildings are kept in a clean and suitable condition.
Assist in the supervision and instruction of the Centre’s programme activities to the agreed level of competence.
To assist in the delivery of schools programmes.
Assist in the day to day management of the Centre.
When required to, staff the Centre’s shop and reception.
Assist in the maintenance of the facilities and programme areas.
Any other duties as required.