Person swimming in a pool

Leisure operations

Leisure operations is the key operations industry area for the sport and physical activity sector, overseeing the day-to-day operations of a variety of sites from leisure centres to sports hubs and gyms.

The leisure operations industry has created over 41,000 new jobs since 2003 and there are currently over 35,000 people employed as recreation assistants across the UK. Individuals working within leisure operations often work as part of a vibrant team and provide opportunities for people to take part in a range of activities.

Career opportunities

Discover being an Assistant Swimming Teacher
Swimming Teacher

Assistant Swimming Teacher

Assistant Swimming Teachers provide an enjoyable experience to people learning to swim by delivering fun, safe and inclusive swimming activities. They support the swimming teacher in the delivery of swimming lessons to participants of all ages and abilities.

Discover being a Lifeguard

Lifeguard

Lifeguards facilitate a safe environment to enable users to participate in a range of water-based activities. They will typically work in environments such as swimming pools, inland water and beaches, and will safely supervise a range of aquatic activities using equipment specific to each environment.

Discover the role of a Recreation Assistant
Recreation Reception

Recreation Assistant

Recreation Assistants support, enhance and deliver the day-to-day operations of a leisure facility. These operations typically service sport and activities in wet environments such as swimming pools, water slides, saunas and/or dry environments such as activity areas and sports pitches.

Discover the role of a Swimming Teacher

Swimming Teacher

Swimming Teachers plan, deliver and evaluate a series of swimming lessons and provide a safe learning environment. They will help to develop water confidence, safety and technical skills in a range of participants of different abilities, from non-swimmer to those with advanced skills.

Get started

View the Careers Guide

Careers Guide

Take a look at the CIMSPA Careers Guide for more careers advice and exciting opportunities for a career in community sport.

Visit our Sector Jobs Board

Jobs board

View the latest sport and physical activity job listings in leisure operations and find your next role now.