ACTIVITY LEADER JOB DESCRIPTION

Every week, students show up to a gym, classroom annex, or community center expecting someone to have a plan. An Activity Leader is the person who does. This role owns the day-to-day delivery of structured recreational and enrichment programming for children and youth in school-district and municipal park-and-recreation settings, where CPR certification, LARA licensing compliance, and mandatory background clearances define the baseline of professional readiness. The work spans lesson facilitation, participant supervision, and direct parent communication. It is hands-on, schedule-driven, and accountable to both site coordinators and district guidelines.

As the Activity Leader, you will design and facilitate daily enrichment sessions, manage participant safety and discipline, and ensure programming meets school-district and municipal licensing standards. The position reports to a site coordinator or program manager within a government-funded or nonprofit after-school structure and serves a caseload of youth participants ranging from elementary through teenage groups.

Career Impact: Experience in this role develops the lesson facilitation, behavior intervention, and regulatory compliance skills that hiring managers in youth development and parks-and-recreation administration look for in program supervisor candidates.

Business Impact: Youth participants depend on consistent, structured programming to meet attendance and developmental benchmarks that grant-funded municipal programs are required to report.

Growth Opportunity: Activity Leaders who build demonstrated experience with SEL methods and CPR/AED certification are well-positioned to advance into Recreation Program Coordinator or Site Coordinator roles.

• Plan and deliver structured daily lesson plans aligned with site-coordinator-approved program objectives and age-appropriate developmental goals.
• Enforce all program rules, district guidelines, and licensing regulations to maintain a compliant and safe environment for every participant.
• Supervise participants during all activities, transitions, mealtimes, and free periods to ensure welfare and appropriate discipline.
• Communicate with parents and guardians professionally regarding individual participant progress, daily activities, and any incidents.
• Maintain accurate records of attendance, arrival and departure times, incident reports, and goal progress documentation.
• Coordinate materials, supplies, and equipment for each session, including restocking and safe storage after activities conclude.
• Attend mandatory pre-service and in-service training, staff meetings, and professional development sessions as scheduled.

Worked examples of quantifying program results show how to translate duties like attendance tracking and incident reporting into strong resume bullet points.

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent; or an equivalent combination of relevant education and work experience.
• 1 or more years of experience working with children in recreation, education, childcare, or a closely related program setting.
• Current CPR, First Aid, and AED certification, or ability to obtain within three months of hire.
• Knowledge of lesson plan development, classroom management techniques, and basic principles of record-keeping.
• Ability to apply positive behavior interventions and social-emotional learning (SEL) methods with youth across diverse age groups.
• Skill in verbal and written communication with children, parents, administrators, and community members from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment within established policy guidelines while maintaining participant safety standards at all times.
• Valid driver's license appropriate to the state of employment, with the ability to travel between program sites as required.

While this section lists the baseline criteria, the qualifications postings require at each level maps the full range from entry-level CPR certification through supervisory experience.

• Completion of mandated childcare licensing requirements, such as LARA PA116 compliance, CCBC fingerprinting clearance, or equivalent state-level background check framework.
• Associate's degree or equivalent coursework in recreation, education, child development, or a related field.
• Bilingual proficiency, particularly in English and Spanish, to support outreach programming for diverse youth and family populations.
• Prior supervisory experience coordinating volunteers or program aides within a structured youth development or enrichment setting.

• Participant attendance rate per session, reflecting consistent program delivery and youth engagement.
• Incident report volume and response time, measuring how promptly safety situations are identified and documented.
• Lesson plan submission rate to site coordinator, tracking adherence to weekly program planning requirements.
• Parent communication frequency and resolution rate for individual participant concerns raised during the program period.
• Compliance completion rate for required certifications, background checks, and mandatory training deadlines.
• Typical tools: Attendance and record management software (commonly spreadsheet-based or district-issued platforms); communication tools (commonly email and school-district messaging systems).

Mapping these performance metrics to salary benchmarks and advancement paths for this role is the quickest way to understand where this position sits in the broader career ladder.

• Base Salary Range: $30,000 to $42,000 annually; hourly roles typically $15 to $20 per hour.
• Bonus: Uncommon at this level; some municipal employers offer end-of-program stipends.
• Equity: Not applicable in municipal or nonprofit settings.
• Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage standard for full-time positions.
• PTO: 10 to 15 days annually; school-calendar-aligned positions may follow district schedule.
• Common Perks: Mileage reimbursement for site travel; access to professional development and certification funding.

Figures are estimates based on general US market benchmarks and may be outdated. Adjust based on location, company size, and seniority level.

Background check completion, including fingerprinting and any applicable state childcare registry clearance, is a condition of employment for this role given the direct and unsupervised contact with minors. All qualified applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. Reasonable accommodations are available to individuals with disabilities throughout the hiring process upon request. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.

Start your activity leader resume now using the templates built for this role.

The Activity Leader delivers structured educational and recreational programming for children, assisting teachers in daily classroom activities while enforcing safety standards and organizational policies. Working within a school-district-based program and communicating directly with parents, this role supports participant welfare and inclusion to ensure consistent, high-quality program outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in daily program activity planning and implementation.
• Institute and enforce all rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Assist teachers in daily classroom activities.
• Ensure participant welfare, safety, and inclusion during all activities.
• Maintain a safe and clean environment and ensure proper storage of supplies and equipment.
• Communicate with parents professionally and effectively.
• Perform parks and recreation support and customer service activities as required.
• Attend professional development and staff meetings as scheduled.
• Travel to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma/GED and one year of experience working with children in education, recreation, or a similar program, or an equivalent combination.
• Michigan Driver's License.
• CPR, First Aid, and AED certification within three months of employment.
• Knowledge of grant requirements and licensing regulations.
• Knowledge of lesson plans, classroom management, and principles of record management.
• Proficiency in computer applications related to the work.
• Skill in effective verbal and written communication and following verbal and written instructions.
• Skill in dealing with individuals from various socio-economic, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds and communicating effectively with children.
• Ability to use initiative and independent judgment within general policy guidelines and maintain safety standards.
• Ability to work in an economically, culturally, and racially diverse environment with courteous and cooperative behavior.

Embedded within a therapeutic recreation program, the Activity Leader develops and implements lesson and program plans for youth and adult participants with disabilities, including unified sports and ongoing social opportunities. Working closely with parents, players, and program volunteers, this role shapes inclusive participation outcomes and ensures safety and integration across all activities.

Core Functions

• Provide planning and implementation of recreational programs and services for people with disabilities.
• Provide quality instruction or modifications of recreation activities for youth and adult participants.
• Develop and implement therapeutic lesson and program plans.
• Instruct participants in unified sports and teach skills specific to each activity.
• Coordinate information related to practice, league games, and tournaments with parents and players.
• Plan and facilitate social opportunities for adults with disabilities on an ongoing basis.
• Complete administrative tasks, including record keeping, attendance, program evaluations, and therapeutic assessments.
• Supervise and train program volunteers with positive inclusivity, including giving and receiving constructive feedback.
• Operate a multi-passenger accessible lift van and represent the City positively and professionally.

Qualifications & Experience

• Coursework in therapeutic recreation, special education, or a related field preferred.
• Previous experience teaching or co-teaching sports, therapeutic recreation, or related programming preferred.
• Knowledge of recreation programming and the physical, cognitive, and socio-emotional needs of individuals of varying ages and disabilities.
• Be familiar with participants' behavior plans and medical needs to ensure safety and integration during activities.
• Ability to understand and apply adaptations, accommodations, and physical assistance techniques for individuals with disabilities.
• Proficiency with basic office machines, audio-visual equipment, sports and adapted recreation equipment, and a 14-passenger van.
• Strong oral communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to work effectively and diplomatically with a diverse group of people and handle difficult situations with patience and good judgment.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and respond quickly and efficiently to safety situations.

Reporting to centre management, the Activity Leader leads children and grown-ups through signature classes, delivering lesson plans that follow established class plans while adding creative ideas and preparing all equipment in advance. Partnering with fellow teachers to share ideas and tips, this role builds a welcoming family environment that drives memorable class attendance and member engagement.

Primary Duties

• Lead children and grown-ups through signature classes with confidence and enthusiasm.
• Ensure classes are planned and delivered to a high standard for a memorable experience.
• Promote classes passionately to members and drive class attendance.
• Deliver lesson plans following established class plans while adding creative ideas.
• Prepare all equipment and materials in advance and ensure they are on hand during classes.
• Create a friendly, welcoming, and homely environment for member families.
• Keep on top of re-ordering and replenishing supplies and broken materials.
• Share ideas and tips with fellow teachers to enhance every class.

Skills & Qualifications

• Experience working with children and leading educational activities.
• Ability to confidently deliver fun and educational class content with creativity.
• Outstanding attention to detail and good organisational skills.
• Great personality, enthusiasm, and positive outlook.
• Excellent English required.

Sitting at the intersection of student welfare and language learning integration, the Activity Leader prepares, plans, and leads activities and excursions while completing risk assessments and maintaining the activities notice board across all events. Operating across residential duties including airport meet-and-greet, mealtime supervision, and bedroom checks, this role ensures the safety and structured experience of students aged 8 to 18 in a multicultural environment.

Duties

• Attend on-site staff induction and participate in weekly development and observation sessions.
• Prepare, plan, and lead activities and excursions, including optional extra excursions.
• Implement Health and Safety standards and complete risk assessments for all tours, activities, and events.
• Maintain the activities notice board, sign-up sheets, and registers for all activities and mealtimes.
• Prepare for student arrivals and departures, including bedroom checks, airport meet-and-greet, and send-off.
• Supervise students during mealtimes, breaks, and free time, and maintain adequate discipline.
• Ensure integration of language learning with the social programme.
• Assist the Activity and Centre Manager as required and report accidents and incidents with documentation.
• Maintain a tidy workplace and wear the uniform at all times whilst on duty.

Requirements

• Educated to GCSE level.
• HSE-recognised First Aid certificate desirable; Lifeguarding licence and sports coaching qualifications desirable.
• Minimum 18 years of age with the maturity to supervise students aged 8 to 18.
• Experience supervising minors and working in fast-paced, high-pressure environments.
• Safeguarding training completed.
• Experience working in a multicultural environment.
• Customer service experience.
• Ability to speak a second language.
• Experience working as part of a team.

A key member of the department team, the Activity Leader develops and conducts educational and interactive youth programs while acting as a City representative before public groups of children, teens, and adults. Collaborating across school communities, outside agencies, and the public, this role advances equitable access to department resources and services for youth and families through bilingual outreach and programming.

Functions

• Develop and conduct educational and interactive youth programs that meet department objectives.
• Organise and implement outreach programs and projects.
• Assist youth and families in finding and accessing department services and resources.
• Evaluate and recommend public access resources and materials for purchase.
• Act as a City representative before public groups of children, teens, and adults.
• Compile data, information, and statistics for reports and cost estimates.
• Order and issue program, craft, and office supplies and manage files and records.
• Develop and conduct training in program design and delivery for staff and the public.
• Attend meetings and seminars to stay current in job practices and research relevant information.

Experience & Qualifications

• Knowledge of books and information resources for youth and skill in planning and presenting effective programs.
• Skill in designing and constructing educational exhibits that promote department resources and services.
• Skill in public speaking and effective oral and written communication.
• Skill in time management, organisation, and staff and volunteer coordination.
• Proficiency in computers and related software, including Microsoft Office products.
• Knowledge of Visual, Performing, Cultural, Urban, Eco, Installation, and Digital Arts programming, as well as Museum Studies and Anthropology programming.
• Ability to work with people of diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to fluently communicate in English and Spanish (reading, writing, and speaking).
• Ability to travel to more than one work location.

Inspiring range presentation solutions that reflect locally relevant festivities depends on the Store Activity Leader, who leads a team of Visual Merchandising Co-workers in translating the commercial calendar into effective and successful launches. Based within the retail store environment and working directly with market research findings and layout planning tools, this role enables sales growth by combining commercial and aesthetic skills to exploit opportunities quickly.

Accountabilities

• Lead a team of Visual Merchandising Co-workers in creating inspiring, affordable, and commercial range presentation solutions.
• Gather and translate the launch package from the commercial calendar to the team for effective and successful launches.
• Ensure a good commercial tempo and maintain a strong overview of commercial calendar activities before, during, and after each period.
• Exploit commercial opportunities quickly, including planning add-ons and home furnishing activities for customers.
• Plan range presentation solutions based on layout as a commercial tool, aligned to inspiration and communication direction, and execute with quality, simplicity, and cost-effectiveness.
• Analyse research findings and translate knowledge of local market needs into an inspiring range of presentation solutions that reflect locally relevant festivities.
• Oversee the ordering of materials and racking for displays, minimising disruption and communicating changes to visitors.

Technical Qualifications

• Strong understanding of life at home, local market trends, and how to drive people's behaviour and emotions to stimulate home furnishing interest.
• Knowledge of range presentation techniques, including store layout, store media, display techniques, commercial lighting, and store communication.
• Understanding of creative processes and how to lead them.
• Proficiency in relevant software and production tools designed for visual merchandising.
• Ability to combine commercial and aesthetic skills to present the product range in a way that drives sales.
• Ability to conclude market research, such as Customer Satisfaction Surveys and Brand Capital studies.

As the Activity Leader, this role plans, implements, organises, supervises, and evaluates enrichment and physical activities in collaboration with school administration, teachers, and outside agency staff. The school-based program relies on this work to maintain positive student management and discipline, ensure safe use of materials and equipment, and advance participant engagement across fitness and enrichment sessions.

Activities

• Collaborate with school administration, teachers, and outside agency staff to plan and coordinate enrichment and physical activities.
• Plan, implement, organise, supervise, and evaluate enrichment and physical activities and units.
• Prepare and restore classroom or activity spaces before and after each session daily.
• Establish positive relationships with all student participants and maintain positive student management and discipline at all times.
• Direct and supervise students in the proper use of all materials and equipment.
• Follow all required school and district guidelines, procedures, and policies, and provide instruction in safety procedures.

Position Requirements

• Associate's Degree or units equivalent to two years of higher education in a related field.
• Valid California Driver's License and current automobile insurance; fingerprint clearance from the Department of Justice and FBI.
• Current X-ray or tuberculin skin test before employment and every four years thereafter; passage of district pre-employment test and post-offer physical examination and drug screen.
• Successful experience in a leadership role with youth, sports, and/or recreation, including demonstrated experience in school-related fitness, recreation, and enrichment activities.
• Knowledge of school operation procedures, group instructional practices, and safe practices for playground activities.
• Knowledge of appropriate techniques for motivating and directing student behaviour and basic methods for overseeing activities across a variety of age-appropriate settings.
• Ability to plan, implement, and evaluate fitness and enrichment activities and physically lead students safely.
• Ability to work cooperatively, communicate effectively with students, administrators, parents, and co-workers, and work independently with little direction.
• Ability to engage and motivate all student participants and demonstrate enthusiasm for fitness and enrichment opportunities for youth.

Activity Leader owns the delivery of a required program of activities for vulnerable participants across multiple NDIS programs, preparing reports including Person-Centred Plans, incident reports, and goal progress reports. Success in the position means participants experience safe, empowering environments supported by strong leadership, creative problem-solving, and a positive team culture built through effective roster and volunteer coordination.

Operational Focus

• Plan and deliver the required program of activities.
• Provide feedback on clients' Person-Centred Plans and prepare reports, including incident reports, letters of support, and goal progress reports.
• Provide a safe environment for participants.
• Provide leadership and foster teamwork to create a positive work environment.
• Apply creative problem-solving across multiple programs.
• Support the roster development process.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Certificate III or above in Disability or a related field with relevant experience.
• First Aid Certificate (or ability to obtain one before commencing).
• Current Epilepsy Management Certificate (or proof of enrolment before commencing).
• Completed NDIS Worker Check, Working with Children Check clearance, and mandatory NDIS Worker Orientation Module.
• Experience working with or willingness to work with vulnerable people of all ages, including supporting or empowering others to achieve personal outcomes.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Valid NSW Driver's Licence with an insured vehicle.

The Activity Leader produces a full schedule of activities, excursions, and theme evenings organised by ALPADIA, safeguarding and promoting the well-being of all students throughout. Working within a holiday camp setting and reporting to centre leadership, this role advances positive student engagement across cultural and sporting programming while supporting the opening and closing operations of the centre.

Key Deliverables

• Safeguard and promote the well-being of all students.
• Prepare and lead all activities and excursions organised by ALPADIA.
• Prepare and supervise various theme evenings.
• Promote all activities and events effectively.
• Undertake local travel and research.
• Supervise students outside of activity and excursion sessions.
• Assist in opening and closing down the centre.

Professional Experience

• Experience working in holiday camps or similar organisations.
• National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) or First Aid qualification preferred.
• Ability to lead, motivate, and encourage large groups of teenagers.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work under pressure.
• Keen interest in culture and sport.

Reporting to the Activities Manager or Centre Manager, the Activity Leader develops a full residential program encompassing activity leadership, trip guiding, meal and bedtime supervision, and airport greeting and departure responsibilities. Working closely with students, group leaders, and residential staff, this role advances students' life skills and ensures that welfare, discipline, and safety are maintained throughout all on-campus and off-campus activities.

Areas of Ownership

• Ensure customer satisfaction in the leading and supervision of activities and trips at the centre and off-campus.
• Explain activities clearly and positively to students and group leaders and keep them well informed.
• Lead activities and trips in the style of a tour guide with enthusiasm and clear communication about sightseeing and city tours.
• Ensure adequate planning and preparation for all activities and trips, including a timely start and finish and clear meeting points.
• Maintain proper levels of student discipline, welfare, and safety during all activities.
• Inform the Activities Manager or Centre Manager about any problems or incidents.
• Carry out residential responsibilities including meal and bedtime supervision, guardian duties, check-in and check-out, and linen exchange on rotation.
• Assist with airport greeting and departure responsibilities as needed.
• Contribute to students' development of life skills.

Background & Experience

• High School Graduate or GED equivalent.
• 1 year of experience working with or supervising minors, preferably in a summer school, language camp, or residential setting.
• First Aid or CPR certificate desirable; Lifeguard and/or coaching qualification desirable.
• Good communication and organisational skills.
• Ability to demonstrate enthusiasm, patience, and flexibility.
• Ability to work as part of a team.
• Knowledge of the local area desirable.
• Knowledge of multiple languages; Mandarin language skills especially encouraged.

Reporting to the Site Coordinator, the Activity Leader refines and leads daily lesson plans across homework assistance, life skills, academic games, and arts and vocational activities for youth participants. Partnering with volunteers, parents, administrators, and community members, this role supports positive behaviour interventions and SEL methods to foster youth development and participant engagement throughout all program sessions.

Role Responsibilities

• Plan activities designed to motivate, inspire, and provide physical movement for youth, including homework assistance, life skills, academic games, and arts and vocational activities.
• Design programs, plan schedules of events, and develop and distribute promotional and marketing information.
• Obtain and reproduce required materials for program activities.
• Ensure youth are engaged and involved; oversee participants and volunteers, and maintain program discipline.
• Accompany participant groups at special events or program outings and issue Certificates of Completion and Participation.
• Open, close, secure, and maintain a safe program environment; conduct safety checks and administer first aid as required.
• Maintain records and prepare attendance and progress reports.
• Attend mandatory pre-service and in-service training and meetings.

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Proficiency in PC desktop and related software programs, including basic filing and record keeping.
• Skill in planning and implementing events and activities involving youth, families, staff, and volunteers, both independently and in a group.
• Excellent organisational, interpersonal communication, and writing skills.
• Ability to follow and give verbal and written instructions and operate a variety of office machines.
• Exhibit a positive attitude and supportive demeanour at all times.

Sitting at the intersection of classroom support and structured childcare oversight, the Activity Leader assists in developing and leading daily lesson plans while maintaining supervision of children and enforcing positive behaviour interventions and SEL methods at all times. Operating across daily program coordination, parent communication, and compliance with LARA-mandated requirements, this role advances safe, inclusive after-school environments for children served by the program.

Job Functions

• Assist in developing and leading daily lesson plans and participate in daily classroom activities.
• Provide weekly lesson plans to the Site Coordinator and inform parents of individual activities daily.
• Prepare materials for daily activities and maintain a safe environment at all times.
• Maintain records of attendance, arrival times, and departure times.
• Maintain supervision of children at all times.
• Enforce all rules, regulations, policies, and procedures and apply positive behaviour interventions and SEL methods.
• Attend all meetings, trainings, and program planning sessions as scheduled.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; minimum 18 years of age.
• 1 year of childcare or youth-related experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• LARA (PA116) mandated requirements completed, including Comprehensive Childcare Background Check with fingerprinting, CCBC eligibility, MIRegistry Health and Safety Online Courses 1 and 2, First Aid and CPR certification, negative TB test, valid state-issued ID, and Child Abuse/Neglect Central Registry Check.
• Working knowledge of computers and software, including email, word processing, and spreadsheets.
• Excellent communication skills and strong organisational and planning skills.
• Strong collaborative and team-building skills and ability to coordinate volunteer and program-delivery efforts.
• Human relations skills, including the ability to work with diverse students, parents, administrators, teachers, volunteers, and community members.
• Creative problem-solving skills and knowledge of youth development and developmental assets.
• Supervisory experience.