OBS Instructor

Outward Bound Singapore (OBS) Instructors conduct experiential courses for students ranging from Secondary 3 to working adults in an outdoor environment.

OBS Instructor Job Description

Responsible for the safety and well-being of all participants.

Facilitate learning for participants through outdoor activities and reflection.

Required to stay in during the entire course duration which ranges from 5 to 25 days.

Inspect and maintain training facilities and equipment to ensure that they are safe to use.

Be on standby to conduct outdoor courses like kayaking and high elements obstacle courses.

Note

Consider being OBS Instructors for outdoor work, youth interaction, and skill development, plus allowances.

A day in the life

OBS Instructor

Ever wonder what does being an OBS instructor entail? Find out more as Amanda takes us through her typical day at work!

What you should know about OBS Instructor jobs in Singapore

Nature of Work

As OBS Instructors, you’ll lead outdoor activities, with 130 instructional & 70 field days.

Key Advice

You should be willing to work from 6 am to 11 pm and stay in during courses.

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements
Applicants have to go through a 3-day 2-night Instructor Selection Process (ISP) which assesses your suitability and qualities like leadership and grit.

If successful, you will be shortlisted for a final interview.

Being an Instructor means you will have to be physically fit and also not have any serious medical condition. This will be cleared during the mandatory health check-up.
Possible Pathway

Possible Pathway

Skills you may need to pursue an OBS Instructor career in Singapore

Hard Skills

Wilderness First Aid & CPR

Responding to medical emergencies in remote settings.

Sports Climbing Level 1, 2

Safely guiding and instructing climbing activities.

Abseiling Level 1, 2

Leading descent activities with a focus on technique and safety.

Kayaking 1, 2, 3 Stars

Leading kayaking expeditions, teaching techniques for safety.

Lifesaving 1, 2, 3

Handling aquatic emergencies in water-based activities.

Soft Skills

Leadership

Inspiring, motivating, and managing participants in outdoor activities.

Communication

Instructing and ensuring safety in diverse outdoor scenarios.

Initiative

Proactively managing activities and challenges in dynamic environments.

Reaction Under Stress

Remaining calm and decisive under stress for safety.

Interpersonal Skills

Building trust and understanding needs in group dynamics.

“The fulfilment comes from contributing to the youths that will be the future of the world eventually.”

Amanda, OBS Instructor

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Must OBS Instructors be able to swim?

While knowing how to swim is not a prerequisite, having the ability to swim at least 200 metres is advantageous to applicants as there are water activites involved during OBS programmes.
What commitments are required from OBS Instructors upon signing?

OBS Instructors must commit to a three-year tenure. In exchange, National Youth Council will fund a comprehensive 6-month training programme to equip them with the necessary skills to be an OBS Instructor.
Do OBS Instructors need to be physically fit before applying for jobs in Singapore?

No, OBS Instructors do not need to be physically fit in the sense of being an athlete or bodybuilder. However, they do need to be able to move around safely and efficiently in the studio, and they need to be able to demonstrate the exercises they are teaching.
Do OBS Instructors need to know basic first-aid?

Yes, OBS Instructors need to know basic first aid. OBS Instructors are responsible for the safety and well-being of their participants, they need to be able to provide first aid in the event of an injury or illness.
What type of outdoor programmes do OBS Instructors facilitate?

They facilitate programmes such as Leadership Development, Adventure Education, Environmental Education and Team Building Exercises.