A bigger adventure awaits
It’s a full-on, challenging year: you’ll be stretched, you’ll work hard, and there will be days that push you out of your comfort zone. But alongside the effort comes real growth, lasting friendships, and the chance to make a difference every day.
Programme Overview
The TAL year runs from September to August. Winter is focused on training, preparing you with the skills and confidence you’ll need. From March onward, you’ll put this into practice, delivering activities for visiting groups and helping lead our programme. By the end of the year, you’ll be supported in leading a school group yourself.
Living on Site
You’ll live on-site in Thwaites House, our state-of-the-art accommodation. Living alongside other trainees means you’re instantly part of a real community. This comes with shared meals, laughter, teamwork, and the chance to develop friendships that really stick. It’s immersive, supportive, and a big part of the adventure itself.
Training and Discipleship
Throughout the year, you’ll be equipped with the practical skills needed to lead activities safely and confidently, including powerboating, sailing, kayaking and first aid. You’ll also develop leadership, teamwork, and communication skills that help you guide groups and support fellow team members.
Alongside this, the discipleship programme runs the whole year, offering space to grow in faith, reflect, and support one another. TALs get hands-on experience, mentoring, and opportunities to step into leadership in a real-world setting.
Life as a TAL
We ask our trainees to raise £2,500 to help fund their year before they arrive. Not only does this contribute towards your training and living expenses, it also helps you to build connections and encouragement from your home community.
As a TAL, you’ll receive a kit allowance and a living allowance to help support your time on site. You’ll also be part of a wider staff team who are there to guide and encourage you. Living together with other trainees creates a close-knit community, and being part of CYE means you’re backed by a much larger, caring 'family'. For many, this is their first experience living away from home, so we work hard to make this big life transition a positive one.
Many TALs really do find their 'place' at CYE. For those who want to extend their adventure and leadership journey you'll have the opportunity to apply to continue for a second year. Download the information pack for a more detailed description of what to expect and don't forget you can contact us any time if you have any questions.
How to Apply
If you’re ready to step into this challenge, take a look at the role description and fill out the application form. We’d love to hear from you and help you start your TAL journey.
