Equestrian Centre Assistant / Groom – Therapeutic Equestrian Centre Part-time | Pay and hours to be agreed

We are looking for a kind, capable and enthusiastic equine professional to help care for our horses and support the daily running of our therapeutic equestrian centre.

Our approach is horse-centred and person-centred. We value considerate horsemanship, excellent welfare and positive relationships, helping people enjoy the benefits of spending time with horses.

JOB PURPOSE Assist with daily horse and animal care, yard operations and horse exercise and training. Support therapeutic activities, riding lessons, trail rides, Pony Club and camps as required.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES • Carry out daily yard duties and provide attentive care for our horses and other animals. • Help maintain a safe, welcoming environment, with equal concern for participants and horses. • Assist with horse exercise and training using our horse-centred approach, within your competence. • Support riding and therapeutic horsemanship sessions for participants. • Assist with Pony Club activities, retreats and Horse Boy camps when required. • Work positively with colleagues and support volunteers where appropriate. • Participate in staff meetings and fundraising activities as required. • Follow our values, policies and safeguarding procedures.

ESSENTIAL ATTRIBUTES Professional experience of caring for or training in working with horses. An equine or animal care qualification, or willingness to work towards one within the role.

Kind, considerate horse-handling skills; patience; enthusiasm; clear communication; good organisation; and the ability to work independently and as part of a team. A perceptive, responsive approach and genuine interest in therapeutic horsemanship and developing your skills.

DESIRABLE ATTRIBUTES Experience working in an equestrian centre, supporting disabled or disadvantaged people, or assisting with horse training.

WORKING ARRANGEMENTS This is a part-time role supporting the centre throughout the year. Hours vary with the needs of the business, with daytime, evening and weekend work required. Set hours may be available.

Shifts may fall between 8am and 7pm, Monday to Sunday, including bank holidays as required. Availability during Easter, Christmas and summer school holidays is needed. Staff meetings may take place outside normal operating hours.

Pay and the agreed working pattern will be discussed during recruitment.

KEY SKILLS AND EXPERTISE Horse care and welfare; safe handling; general yard duties; teamwork; people skills; organisation; and considerate horsemanship. Horse exercise and training experience is welcomed.

SAFEGUARDING This position requires an enhanced DBS check. You must be committed to safeguarding, professional boundaries and following Equine Learning’s policies and procedures.

HOW TO APPLY Please read the Centre Assistant vacancy pack on our website and complete the online application form, entering Equestrian Centre Assistant / Groom as the position: https://www.equinelearning.org.uk/application-form.html

Include your relevant experience, qualifications or training, and availability for weekday, evening, weekend and holiday work.

We welcome applications from all backgrounds. Please contact us through our website if you need assistance or reasonable adjustments during recruitment. In