Experience with Horses

I have been involved with horses for over 25 years, beginning my journey at a local riding school as someone from a non-horsey background. Over time, my passion grew — leading me from lessons and pony shares to owning, training, and competing my own horses. I feel incredibly grateful for the opportunities I’ve had, both through freelance work and the horses themselves.

In my early years, I gained valuable experience with an equine veterinary practice and later worked for Sienna Myson-Davies, Junior Eventing Gold Medallist, which deepened my knowledge and professionalism. I’ve always had a particular interest in equine nutrition, an area I find both fascinating and essential to holistic horse care.

Although the last 10 years have been quieter in terms of day-to-day involvement, I’ve continued to provide ad hoc support at a small private showjumping yard, both at home and at shows. I currently work part-time at a small dressage yard, assisting with the care and schooling of young horses, which has reignited my love for hands-on equine work.

I progressed through the Pony Club system, completing various tests including first aid and achieving my Pony Club B Test (equivalent to BHS Stage 2). I also studied for a year at Hartpury College, which gave me valuable insight into the wider equestrian industry, even though I ultimately decided that higher education wasn’t the right fit for me at that time.

After unexpectedly losing both of my horses in recent years — one after 19 years together and the other after two decades of ownership — I find myself at a point where I would truly love to stay connected to horses and continue sharing my passion, knowledge, and joy for being around them.

 

Key Skills

What are you particularly good at? For example: working alone, working with others, clipping, plaiting, turning out for shows, handling stallions, handling/riding young horses, non-equine skills etc

 

 

Strengths and Weaknesses

• What do you most enjoy about working with horses?

I’ve had a deep love for horses since childhood. Although I didn’t come from a horsey family, it quickly became clear that being around horses was where I felt most at home. I started out with riding lessons at a local school, which led to a share horse, and eventually — at age 11 — to owning my first horse, which was a dream come true. Every horse I’ve owned has been with me for life, and the connection I build with them is something I truly value.

Horses have always been a calming, grounding presence for me. I’ve been fortunate to learn from some brilliant trainers and gain hands-on experience from a young age. One of the most formative experiences was training a three-year-old myself due to limited finances — a challenge that taught me discipline, patience, and resilience, and resulted in an incredibly strong partnership.

I’m happiest outdoors, staying active and working hard — and when horses are involved, that’s always a bonus!

• Is there anything you’d like to improve?

While I have a strong foundation in horse care and handling, I’m currently working on rebuilding my confidence after being less involved hands-on over the past few years. I’m focusing on refreshing and updating my skills, particularly in areas like clipping, plaiting, and day-to-day yard routines.

I’m a fast learner, open to feedback, and committed to getting back up to speed — with a real passion to be back in the yard environment and working with horses regularly again

• Why should employers consider you above any other job seeker?

I bring not only practical experience across a wide range of yard environments — from private homes to competition settings — but also a genuine, lifelong passion for horses. I’m dependable, kind, and take real pride in giving horses the very best care, whether I’m mucking out or preparing for a show. What sets me apart is my commitment to learning, my calm and patient approach (especially with young or sensitive horses), and my ability to work with empathy and intuition.

Having produced a young horse from scratch and worked across multiple disciplines, I understand the importance of both skill and mindset in this industry. I’m also refreshingly honest about where I’m rebuilding confidence and actively working to sharpen my skills — because I want to do the job to the best of my ability.

Above all, I’m someone who shows up, works hard, and cares — and that goes a long way on any yard.

Requirements

• What would you like to do or gain in your next job? 

Part time Freelance work either regular days and hours or on an adhoc cover basis at home or shows

• Do you need accommodation?

No

• Do you have any special requirements for any animals you wish to bring with you? 

No

• Do you have any ongoing commitments?

Part time business that can fit in and around freelance commitments.

• Do you have any holidays booked that an employer needs to know of?

No