Data from the 2003 New Earnings survey shows that:

• the average annual salary for full-time leisure and sports managers was £26,300
• sports coaches, instructors and officials earn an average of £24,800 per annum
• fitness instructors and sports and leisure assistants both earn around £15,000

63% of the sector’s workforce earns less than £20,000 and 15% earn less than £10,000.  Males in the sector earn more than females in the same job, but it is suggested that males are better qualified than their female counterparts.

Bonuses range from £500 upwards, but in general it is equivalent to 3% of the basic salary in the sector.  In 2004, pay increases were more likely to be received by employees in the public sector than the private.

Source: SkillsActive regional fact sheets and SkillsActive/Leisure-Net Solutions Ltd. 2004

For more information on pay in the industries go to sector information.

For average salary by occupation see: