Exercise Referral Instructor

University of Leeds

Interviews are expected to be held 24th February 2026

This role will be based on the university campus.

The Wellbeing Referral Programmes delivered by Sport and Physical Activity uses physical activity as a mechanism for supporting our university community. Students and staff who come through the programme are often living with a range of mental health problems, could be suffering from stress and anxiety or have other mental or physical health needs. These referral programmes have a significant impact on improving student and staff wellbeing across campus; a combination of structured support across key areas enhances mood, reduces isolation and for many, advances academic and work performance.

You will be a key member of the Physical Activity and Wellbeing team, working to demonstrate clearly how physical activity is a central pillar in improving and supporting the mental health and wellbeing of the university community. You must have a Level 3 Exercise Referral Qualification and a Personal Training Qualification as you will be responsible for reviewing personal wellbeing programmes, offering initial consultations, performing progress reviews, and offering holistic wellbeing advice to clients who have been referred through our referral pathways. Alongside other colleagues, you will be responsible for supporting the growth of our referral programmes. As you will be working closely with vulnerable clients, it is essential that you are understanding, patient and work in a caring and supportive manner with each individual, keeping all information strictly confidential.

You will be required to support wider wellbeing work within the team including the delivery of physical activity and wellbeing sessions and workshops as appropriate for staff and students.

This role is primarily based at The Edge on the University of Leeds campus, but you may on occasion be requested to work at other sites off campus such as Sports Park Weetwood and St James’s University Hospital.

This full-time role may include the requirement for you to work evenings and/or weekends linked to key events.

Please note that due to Home Office visa requirements, this role is not suitable for first-time Skilled Worker visa applicants. Information on other visa options is available at:www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration/work-visas

What we offer in return

• 26 days holiday plus approx.16 Bank Holidays/days that the University is closed by custom (including Christmas) – That’s 42 days a year!
• Generous pension scheme options plus life assurance
• Health and Wellbeing: Discounted staff membership options at The Edge, our state-of-the-art Campus gym, with a pool, sauna, climbing wall, cycle circuit, and sports halls.
• Personal Development: Access to courses run by our Organisational Development & Professional Learning team.
• Access to on-site childcare, shopping discounts and travel schemes are also available.

And much more!

To explore the post further or for any queries you may have, please contact:

Kate Petty, Physical Activity & Wellbeing Manager
Email: K.Petty@leeds.ac.uk