Become a professional groom in 6 Simple Steps

How to become a professional groom – 6 simple steps

by Kelly wallace Horne

At any stage in your life, deciding on or changing a career pathway is a very tall order. We have to identify a working life that is enjoyable, that we are not only capable of but are likely to be good at, and that will sustain us financially and provide for our retirement. It’s hardly surprising that so many of us passionate horse lovers opt for a career with horses! So many young horse lovers stand on the threshold of their adult life envisaging a long future of playing with ponies every day and being paid to do it. What’s not to love?! Well, quite a lot actually – living the dream can soon become very disenchanting… unless you do it right!

Just as good grooms have the pick of the best jobs, good employers have the pick of the best grooms. So the burning question is, how can you be that groom?

1. Build and preserve your CV

For many, if not the majority of equine grooms, their first paid experience of working with horses will involve taking the first or only opportunity that presents itself, then going where the tide takes them from there on in. This potluck approach to getting jobs isn’t necessarily wrong, but it isn’t likely to bring you the best the equine industry has to offer you. There are plenty of good grooms jobs out there – The Grooms List by Caroline Carter Recruitment regularly recruit for well-paid jobs with generous salary packages and they nearly always go quickly, often with very little advertising! How? Because when we know who the good grooms are and what they are looking for we can start “matchmaking” pretty much from the get-go. So to be in with a good chance, first and foremost we need to know you are looking so you need to be registered with us, and we need details of what you’ve done previously and your future requirements and desires. When we have this information we know to contact you as soon as a suitable job becomes available (and you need to answer your phone or call us back, and quickly!) This is how potluck grooms miss out, because they would need to be in the right place at the right time to even know about the best jobs – you would be extremely lucky to repeatedly stumble across good jobs by chance.

Professional grooms DON’T leap into new jobs willy-nilly. By taking the potluck route you are jeopardising your equine CV. Each job that turns out to be a wrong move for you means you will probably be moving on again within no time. Your CV will soon resemble a chequerboard of short-lived jobs, telling future prospective employers that you’re probably not going to be with them long, and you probably aren’t worth their time-investment in settling you into their yard, let alone training you up, and your aspirations of being a successful, professional groom will be pushed out of your reach.

Professional grooms DO discuss having a job trial before deciding to accept or reject a prospective job. A job trial could prove to you that you would not enjoy the job after all. You also must understand the importance of job longevity. When you take a new job you really need to remain in that job for at least 12-18 months. Anything less than that risks spoiling (and ultimately destroying) your CV. Always closely examine why you are leaving your job, when you are leaving it and what can be done to rectify or improve your situation within your current role.

2. Be honest and stay safe

You don’t need equine qualifications to build a career in the equine industry, but they certainly are a benefit. Whether you choose to gain qualifications or not, when you start working with horses and especially if you are a school leaver, please don’t be under the illusion that you will be able to walk into a top equine job based on your years in the Pony Club, or how many horses/ponies you’ve owned throughout your life. No matter how much you’ve done or what great experience you’ve got, having your own horses and ponies is in no way comparable to working for someone else. An employer is going to want to see evidence, or at least have reassurance on how well you perform within a team, how you time-manage and prioritise your daily tasks, how you apply initiative when things go off-schedule and how you perform under pressure etc. Professional grooms with an established equine CV will be able to give prospective employers references from previous equine employers as evidence of their skills and abilities that are required to do the job. When starting out you need to be mindful of this and be prepared to agree to legal compromises regarding your salary expectations and the responsibilities you will hold within your job.

Building your equine career inevitably involves stepping outside of your comfort zone at times. “Punching above your weight” may seem necessary for progression, but ensure you do this in a realistic, sensible way. When considering what appears to be a dream job move that offers real career progression, make sure your potential employer is aware of your limitations and lack of experience in certain areas. Whilst there are many job vacancies that require someone who can just get on with the job, there are plenty of employers who are quite happy to help you broaden your skills set and progress your equine career. Make sure you discuss this at your enquiry/interview stage, strongly consider arranging a job trial before committing to a career move, and ensure both you and your prospective employer are clear on both party’s expectation and requirements and that this is laid out in writing before your start date. Don’t wing it, you have too much to lose.

Professional grooms DON’T big up their experience and ability in order to get a chance at career development. By doing this you are not only gambling with your equine career but quite possibly yours, and other people and horses’ safety too, if you are not prepared for all aspects of the new job.

For example, if you’ve previously worked at a Riding School or Livery Yard where you have plaited a horse up for a local show, you can’t big this up in order to get a job as a competition groom for a professional, international competition rider. You will most likely be a huge hindrance to the team on show days and you could come unstuck when handling big, fit, powerful, excitable competition horses. Your lack of skill and experience will be painfully obvious AFTER you’ve moved to your new job and you risk finding yourself back job hunting in no time and in turn you risk your CV becoming the chequerboard described in point 1, with all the associated consequences. Rather than your bold job move furthering your equine career, your aspiration of being a successful professional groom will be pushed further from your grasp.

Professional grooms DO discuss honestly their limitations, strengths and weaknesses, the skills they need to improve and the elements of the job they enjoy and excel at. When considering a new job do discuss having a job trial before deciding to accept or reject a prospective job. A job trial could prove to you that you would not enjoy the job after all, or prove to your potential new employer that you are a good fit for their yard, and they will be more accepting of any short-fallings as you take your step up the career ladder with them.

3. Be sensible in your life choices

Professional grooms DON’T bite off more than they can chew and are realistic in fitting their job around everything else in their life. This goes back to the potluck approach outlined earlier in this article. If you take on more than you can realistically manage on a daily basis you risk over-stretching yourself, you will not achieve a sensible work:life balance, and you will probably not get the best the equine industry has to offer. Full-time jobs in the equine industry are notorious for being long hours and hard work, so taking on more than you can fit in and manage it is not going to work.

Professional grooms DO consider the potential consequences of everything they do. Here are a few key examples:

Generally speaking, the further afield you’re prepared to go to take the perfect equine job for you, the more perfect equine jobs you will have to choose from. The more you limit the geographical radius for your job hunt the more you limit your possibilities and job opportunities.
Having horses/dogs/pets of your own has both positive and negative effects on the job opportunities open to you. Ensure you take these consequences on board BEFORE jumping in and taking on another fur-friend. You can read more about taking a horse and pets to a new job here.
Never jump ship when you could, by discussing issues with your employer, make things work where you are. Whatever you do today will affect lots of tomorrows when it comes to getting the best jobs in the equine industry. Getting the best jobs in the equine industry is not simply a matter of a good job hunt, it’s about everything you’ve done in each and every job you’ve had leading up to your current situation.

4. Know there are no shortcuts to becoming a knowledgeable and experienced groom

Professional grooms DON’T cram as many different types of jobs in various disciplines in as short a space of time as possible. This doesn’t convince future potential employers that you’re a very experienced, diverse groom, but it probably will convince them that you will not stick around long (check back at point 1: preserve your CV!)

Professional grooms DO choose a realistic career pathway. For example, if you’ve quite enjoyed working as a dressage groom don’t simply jump to being a polo groom for 6 months because the opportunity has arisen and you fancy a change. Stick at your job for at least 12-18 months THEN consider your next career move, not whether you fancy a change or not. If you wish to dip your toe in the water of other sectors of the equine industry consider short-term/temporary/seasonal positions as a legitimate way to build up more diverse experience without damaging you CV by job-hopping. You may have more diverse career options available to you than you think, so it is always worth having a chat with one of our knowledgeable and approachable recruitment consultants. Do contact us for a friendly, no-obligation chat.

5. Nudge things along where necessary and appropriate

Professional grooms DON’T let things drift. For instance, don’t be afraid to remind your employer that it is your 18th/21st/25th birthday next month and, if you are paid the National Minimum Wage, you require a pay rise to meet legal requirements.

Professional grooms DO keep up with adjustments to the National Minimum and Living Wage rates and the accommodation offset rate, any agreements made between themselves and their employer (this works both ways), and how progression within their existing job can benefit both them and their employer. If you feel something is lacking or wrong in your current job role or the flow within your team, or that there is room for you to develop within your existing place of employment, don’t be afraid to broach the subject with your employer. Don’t wait for your employer to notice, or offer you new opportunities. Showing keen and expressing a desire for success is rarely, if ever, a bad thing!

6. Understand that no one “owes” anyone anything

OK, I heard you just say “No professional groom works for nothing!” and you are correct. What I mean is, no one owes you anything and you don’t owe your employer anything beyond your terms of employment and honourable and decent behaviour. Neither an offer to work, or of employment is a favour, it is a business-like transaction between employer and employee.

Professional grooms DON’T agree to work for someone cash in hand/for less than the National Minimum or Living Wage/in return for accommodation, training, or favours.

Professional grooms DO bear in mind that it doesn’t matter how long you’ve been working for someone, how pally you may have become with them and/or their team or family, it doesn’t matter how much out on a limb you may have gone, or what your friends think, in simple terms your association with your employer is a lawful contractual arrangement.

Ensure you have EVERYTHING laid out in a Written Statement of Employment BEFORE your start working for anyone, even if you consider them to be a friend. You wouldn’t buy or rent a car without knowing what you’re getting and the price of it, so why should employers and employees? Again, this cuts both ways. Taking on a new groom is as much an investment to the employer as the groom. You are stepping into their corner of the world and they are welcoming you into it. A potential employer will be assessing the pros and cons of hiring you as a groom, just as much as you are assessing the pros and cons of taking their job.

OK, so whatever stage you’re at in your equine career, you’ve made it as far as an equine recruitment website, which is great. This actually is a very good place to start and/or revisit throughout your career, no matter what age you are when you start out working with horses.

Although it may not appear so at first look, these 6 steps really are simple. You don’t need lots of qualifications, tons of experience or any special skills to become a professional groom, you just need to ensure being a groom is the right profession for you and your circumstances, build a good employment history and keep your eye on the ball as you go.

Top Jobs!

JL123165 Hong Kong – Performance Dressage Coach Required

The Hong Kong Jockey Club

Live in Hong Kong

The Hong Kong Jockey Club is keen on promoting the equestrian sport and has funded the establishment of four riding schools. Various equestrian activities are held in the schools to promote the sport, including group training classes, horse hiring, taking a horse at livery, visits and competitions. After strict assessment, these schools are the only riding venues recognized by the British Horse Society in Hong Kong. The Equestrian Affairs Department aims to fulfil the Club’s vision to promote riding as a sport and raise participation at all levels, from beginner through to elite. The Beas River Equestrian Centre, being the largest in Hong Kong, houses over 250 horses and provides world class facilities including a riding school, livery yard, competition centre, rehabilitation and retraining unit, as well as a spelling unit for Hong Kong’s racehorses. The Performance Dressage Coach reports to the Senior Manager, Equestrian, delivering specialist dressage coaching and schooling of members’ and Clubs’ horses at the Beas River Equestrian Centre. Duties: Provide high quality dressage coaching to livery clients and more experienced riding school clients School retired racehorses and import livery horses as requested by members Coach fellow staff members to improve their knowledge and skill of schooling horses on the flat Maintain accurate and efficient records to ensure effective monitoring of lessons and associated billing to clients Work with the Senior Manager, Equestrian, Equestrian Affairs Department to develop programs to encourage more participation in dressage in Hong Kong Assist in the assessment of retired racehorses and advise the Retraining Unit where required Select suitable horses for development for use in the discipline of dressage and actively assist in their production Work with the Senior Manager, Equestrian, Equestrian Affairs Department to develop and execute youth programmes to develop talented youngsters in dressage Act as a member of the BREC Show Committee and actively contribute to the management of all horse shows scheduled at BREC including HKEF competitions Perform any other duties as assigned by management Requirements: Should be an experienced dressage rider who has competed to at least Prix St George level Should be an experienced dressage coach, ideally with relevant equestrian coaching qualifications, BHS Qualifications (Performance Coach BHSI) or equivalent Should be flexible and experienced at coaching riders of all levels from introductory to advanced Have an expert knowledge of training methods for schooling a variety of horses both under saddle and from the ground; previous experience of working with thoroughbreds would be advantageous Fluent speaker of English; good understanding of Cantonese will be an advantage Benefits: An attractive package based on a 2 years contract, 6 days/week/48h including: Substantial monthly salary related to qualifications and experience Low level of Taxation in HK Comfortable & Furnished Flat on-site 2 bedrooms Relocation passage and reimbursement allowance Discretionary annual performance bonus subject to performances 15 days annual leave per annum + 17 Public Holidays Standard Mandatory Provident Fund (Pension Scheme) Medical Insurance Annual Allowance for Protective Personal Equipment (PPE) Personnel Development Program (PDP) Contract renewable if

JL123310 Gloucestershire, Stow on the Wolds – Full-time Groom/Rider for Family Yard (hunting/pony club eventing & PC activities).

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live in Live out Gloucestershire, UK

*Salary IRO £27K-£30 K depending on experience and qualifications *Lovely 3 bed accommodation with garden available *Partner, horse and dog welcomed Friendly, family farm-based yard in the beautiful Cotswolds is now looking for an experienced Groom/Rider/Head Person to help with 9 horses and ponies (1 x 17HH hunter/1 x15.3 HH, 1x retired lead horse, 5 ponies 11HH – 14.2HH & 1x Shetland pony) plus the family’s 4 children (who range from 5-12yrs old). This is a diverse job and the right candidate will be flexible and easy-going. Although capable of being in sole charge, you would equally be happy to work with the owner and discuss daily routines to ensure the best care and smooth running of the yard to a good standard. Help is needed getting ponies ready for lessons and taking the kids out and about in the lorry. Dropping off for trail hunting and collecting again or even joining the family out hunting would also be part of your remit. During the season, the family will Hunt approximately five times per month. In addition, you would be asked to take the children to lessons and assist Mum with the kids out hunting as/when. A decent and lightweight Rider is essential for 1 or 2 rides a day (hacking and/or schooling). Skills to ride/lead too are essential. The owner and children ride very regularly so the load is shared on and off the ground. 😉 You should be able to : Drive a 7.5t lorry Ride/lead Clip, and pull manes and tails to a high standard Demonstrate the knowledge to spot Injuries etc, administer medication & liaise with vets Be organised with ordering bedding and feed. Understand the rudiments of Paddock management – cleaning water troughs, spotting and picking ragwort. Harrowing fields and menage when needed. Offer help with occasional school runs and dog sitting when the family are away. Please contact Caroline & The Team on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com

JL123305 East Sussex – Groom/ Instructor required by 5* Equestrian Centre

Hurstwood Farm Equestrian Centre

Live in Live out East Sussex, UK

Job Description Looking for a full time groom/instructor and rider. We have a Racewood Eventing simulator to teach on and ideally an instructor who has an interest in biomechanics. Also would need to teach on the 10 lesson ponies/horses and we are a BHS riding school. Must be capable of riding and handling horses with confidence. If interested in competing this would also be possible. Must be driven and enthusiastic, capable of sole charge. Able to run clinics, pony days, camps and riding holidays. 8am-5pm, 5 1/2 days per week. Minimum Requirements Must drive, have experience teaching, good standard of riding and horse care. Accommodation details A studio apartment could be made available Benefits Fantastic facilities, xc course, latest technology horse simulator can jump 1.20m, big airy American barn stables. Great location

JL122691 UK based. International Show jumping competition groom role available. UNRIVALLED LEVEL OF REMUNERATION.

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live in Live out The Home Counties

*Unrivalled levels of remuneration and facilities available for someone with top-level Showjumping experience in all elements of the role and only for those able to demonstrate a solid track record *Help with visa available if required *A genuine chance to plan for security in your long-term future. Lots of UK and European shows & tours/no US shows Very minimal yard work (eg mucking out & tack care) as the focus is on looking after the horses eg leg care/turnout/wellbeing etc . This is a role for only the most experienced International competition Grooms willing to spend a a good part of the year on the road home and abroad going to the best shows on the circuit. Best care for horses and riders will be expected and in return, you have everything you need to equip you to do this job to the best of your abilities. Stallion experience essential. No HGV required. For an informal, completely confidential conversation, Please call Caroline on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com.

JL120223 Scotland, Lanarkshire – Groom/Rider (Eventing/General riding/bringing on younger horses).

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live in Live out Lancashire, UK

*Own dog welcomed * Riding opportunities *Purpose-built facilities * Stunning location! *Live in or out -lovely accommodation Our client enjoys Intermediate Event riding/ leisure riding/bringing on youngsters alongside running a highly successful and well-established non-horsey business. Having placed previous staff all giving excellent feedback and having remained a long while, we are now looking for someone to work alongside an experienced Yard Manager in all duties, including riding, horse and stable management. You would need to be at a level where you could step up and take charge on the Yard Manager’s days off/holidays etc. You should be someone who is a competent and confident rider (flat/jumper) for their 7/8 top-quality horses. The terms and conditions are generous and negotiable and will reflect skills and expertise. Accommodation is provided and is lovely but living out is ok too if you are within 30/40 mins of the yard. Top location and the best of facilities ie: gallops/x country course/SJ arena/great hacking Live out position: £25k (5 day week) £26,174.72 (5.5 day week) £28,554.24 (6 day week) Live in negotiable depending on experience Pls call Caroline & Team for more information on 0203 006 5730 or email caroline@carolinecarterrecruitment.com

JL123142 Kent – Live out experienced Home and Competition Dressage Groom.

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live out Kent, UK

*Own horse and dog welcomed. *Monthly training clinics on-site by top trainer. * Salary IRO £27,000 pa negotiable depending on experience. *5 or 5.5days a week (flexibility around competitions) Fantastic opportunity for a professional and experienced Home and Competition Dressage Groom. This is a very rarely available position looking after 5 horses, (competing PSG at National & European level), as staff seem to remain with this employer a long time! Sole charge management and care for 11 large, fit dressage horses, 5 out competing regularly. Must be a quiet but confident handler, keen to build a relationship with the horses in their care. You should Be able to hack retired horses. Will be trained on the use of a horse treadmill. You should be able to provide a first-class standard of care, with a high level of attention to detail is essential, perform all aspects of stable management and turn out to a high standard. A sociable person is essential, happy to work on their own but also able to work well with the owner, yard manager and other staff employed. An interest in observing, and supporting the training and production of the owner’s horses is key. Must be able to lunge. 11 stables, individual post and rail turnout, walker, 60×20 arena, 40×20 indoor arena, water treadmill, solarium, wash down bays, tack room, beautiful setting. The start date is flexible around the end of December/Beginning of January 2025 Please contact Caroline & The Team on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com

JL123131 JL116974 Hertfordshire – Live in Yard manager, ’boutique’ 7 acre family Eventing yard.

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live in Hertfordshire, UK

*IRO £30k pa plus accommodation and bills * Beautiful, on-site Accommodation available * Opportunity to travel to competitions ( steady level not full on professional schedules!) *Small dog possible *5 day week This is a lovely position to work alongside an owner/2* Event Rider and other team members at home but at some competitions on occasion too. The horses kept include 1 x 100/novice horse, 2 young event horses about to start their careers, and an older 2* event horse currently rehabbing from a tendon injury, plus 2 retirees. This position would suit someone who has been there/seen it/done it and now is looking for a quieter place but with a steady, familiar & professional routine doing things to a high standard. Of course, initiative, enthusiasm and a GSOH are all essential requirements for a happy yard. Riding is optional. You should be able to: Work in a team and take sole charge at home and competitions (UK venues). Perform all aspects of stable management. Provide a first-class standard of care, with a high level of attention to detail. Turn out to a high standard. Pls call Caroline and The Grooms List team on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruiment.com

JL123106 Warwickshire – Experienced / capable Yard manager/Groom/Rider. (P2P, hunters, youngstock).

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live in Live out Warwickshire, UK

*IRO £27K pa (depending on experience and qualifications) plus accommodation/oil and council tax *Dog and horse welcome *Excellent hacking and x country/gallops etc Yard manager /Groom/Rider is required for family P2P, Hunting, and youngster’s yard. This is a position ideally suited to someone from a P2P/Hunt/Event background. We need someone experienced/capable Yard manager to oversee the yard with help from family and freelance Grooms. There are around 12 pointers, 4 hunters and the youngstock, (youngstock experience required). You should be a capable and confident rider up for riding out no more than 4 lots a day. The yard is done by lunchtime and like a lot of racing yards the yard then has quiet time and then back at 4.00 for evening stables. No clipping required You should be happy to be around the owner’s children/ other animals although no other real involvement in that side of things is required. A sunny cheerful disposition is essential. The Owners do all the feeding as that’s their time to go around and check all is well. Cottage available. You will pay for your own utilities, the employer pays council tax and oil for heating. Please contact Caroline & The Team on 07747 686118/0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com

JL123084 Berkshire – Yard manager required for private Estate (Family yard).

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live in Live out Berkshire, UK

*Negotiable salary package IRO £27k-£30K pa * Live out person preferred but unfurnished accommodation on site available if required (partner welcome) *Dog welcomed *Great facilities (menage/gallops/walker etc plus 1000+ acres of hacking). A varied role setting & maintaining high standards for yard & horse management, maintenance, staff management, grooming, and riding on a 1000+acre family estate. Ability/experience to instruct adults and children is essential. Must be able to drive a 7.5t lorry This is a role which would suit a good communicator with sound interpersonal skills and a level of maturity is essential . You must enjoy and be good with children/visitors to the estate/owners/yard and estate staff etc. The ability to turn out to a good standard and school horses is essential and the experience of maintaining horses and ponies to the level they need to be at for the riders involved with safety should be at the forefront of your riding endeavours. Two other Grooms are employed so a friendly management style and a hands-on/team player style are critical to harmony. Knowledge of first aid is vital to the role. A key part of the job would involve being proactive in organising and planning in advance for family leisure rides on the large estate and this involves being responsible for the children on such occasions as well as their parents and visitors. This will involve liaising with security and the maintenance team on site. You would be expected to develop a knowledge of all the rides on the estate and to keep things fresh, finding new ones. The family have a second yard/estate elsewhere so from time to time you would need to liaise with the yard manager to move horses and kit depending on the demand. Please contact Caroline & The Team on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com

JL120171 Northern Ireland, County Down – Experienced Show Jumping show/home groom position

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live in Live out Down

*Salary IRO £26k pa, negotiable depending on experience (more for HGV licence holder) *Onsite accommodation, bills included *Own horse possible *Pets possible *Partner considered Experienced person with show experience and capable of sole charge required to join a small, friendly, family SJ team with horses of all ages from youngsters to competition horses. Thorough horse care is essential as the love and care of the horses are very important to the family. The Rider competes up to and including 1.40m. Ideally, you will take pride in your work and working environment and be able to perform all the usual jobs to a very high standard. All general yard duties home and away: Muck out/Clip and plait /Tack up etc/Travel to and stay away at shows etc Experience with young horses would be a bonus. as would working with and handling fit competition horses. Hacking is available if interested. No riding otherwise required but good facilities for you & your horse if you have one. A car and trailer licence is essential, (26t lorry and 3,5t), a massive bonus would be an HGV licence. Please call Caroline on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com

JL121177 Northern Ireland – Short Term Contract for Show Jumping show/home groom position.

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live in Live out Down

*Salary prorate IRO £26k pa, negotiable depending on experience (more for HGV licence holder) *Onsite accommodation, bills included *Own horse possible *Pets possible *Partner considered Experienced person with show experience and capable of sole charge required to join a small, friendly, family SJ team with horses of all ages from youngsters to competition horses. Thorough horse care is essential as the love and care of the horses are very important to the family. The Rider competes up to and including 1.40m. Ideally, you will take pride in your work and working environment and be able to perform all the usual jobs to a very high standard. All general yard duties home and away: Muck out/Clip and plait /Tack up etc/Travel to and stay away at shows etc Experience with young horses would be a bonus. as would working with and handling fit competition horses. Hacking is available if interested. No riding otherwise required but good facilities for you & your horse if you have one. Please call Caroline on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com

JL122962 North Yorkshire – Independent School requires Part Time Groom/Rider

Queen Mary’s School

Live out North Yorkshire, UK

Job Description The Groom’s role is a multi-faceted position and duties are predominantly undertaken in the Riding Centre. Grooms require dedication, attention to detail and an enthusiasm to work with children and horses. This is an incredibly rewarding position if you have the ability to work under pressure and carry out physically demanding tasks. Flexibility and good communication skills are essential as the role can include early mornings, late nights and weekends. A love for horses and an ability to ride are essential and you will be prepared to work outdoors in all weathers. Daily Duties will include: Care and feeding of ponies and horses, including mucking out stables, replacing bedding Mixing feeds, soaking hay, feeding and watering horses and ensuring their overall general health is in good order Grooming, cleaning, brushing and clipping the horses coats Checking for changes in the horse’s condition and reporting problems immediately to the Riding Centre Manager Following any instructions from the Vets or Riding Centre Manager when treatment is needed Checking horses that are turned out, bringing in from fields etc. Tacking up the ponies, ensuring they are ready and on time for their lessons and un-tacking after lessons Daily tack cleaning and washing equipment Assisting pupils on the yard with their duties Helping other members of the Riding Centre with riding activities Assist with the general maintenance of the yard, to ensure a safe environment. This includes the sweeping of the yard and entrance area Poo Picking the fields As a groom you will also have responsibilities around the yard and premises to keep everything functioning at a high level for the horses. This may include but is not limited to: Cleaning the gutters and drains to ensure rainwater run-off is contained Repairing fencing as needed Repairing water troughs as required Some gardening work, weeding, clearing overgrown hedges Cleaning out stables and washing the boxes out Painting stabling / fencing General housekeeping of Riding office, toilet blocks etc. to keep tidy for pupils, parents, staff and visitors Minimum Requirements Candidates will: Be knowledgeable about the care of horses Be able to ride to a reasonably high standard Be aware of health and safety issues Have stamina and fitness Have the ability to work alone and also as part of a team Be willing to undertake routine, practical tasks Hours of Work: Part Time (25 Hours per week) Monday 12:00noon – 19:30 Friday 07:30 – 12:00noon Saturday 07:30 – 17:00 Sunday 08:00 – 11:00 and 16:00 – 18:00 or 09:00 – 15:00 Accommodation details No accommodation is provided Benefits Fee remissions, subject to criteria Free meals during Term Time Free parking Pension

JL121645 Dorset Head person (Groom/rider) – Mixed discipline family yard.

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live in Live out Dorset, UK

*Negotiable package from £28,000 – £30,000 pa with a 2 bedroom/2 bathroom cottage with garden available *Partner/Dog/Horse welcomed *5 or 5.5 day week (with flexibility for hunting). A fun, energetic, enthusiastic and responsible person is required for this busy & very lively family 😉 You need to be a team person and willing to run the yard with help from the family. 7.5t lorry driver essential Knowledge of polo is important, hunters less so but eventing, schooling, jumping are also important. Knowledge of young stock would be a bonus. All hunt, son plays polo and daughter pony club polo and local event/showjumping. Looking for good standards of turnout and a competent rider. Would like someone who can ride everything from the 15h to 17h Not a job for a novice rider as these fit and healthy horses will know what’s what! Be great if the successful candidate was happy to dog sit sometimes. Easy barn- style pens vs stables on a deep litter system, water drinkers, horse walker. Horses are out as much as possible. No menage Please call Caroline on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com

JL120307 Professional Home based Grooms for top Dressage barn. Performance horse experience a must.

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live in Live out Bedfordshire, UK

JL118613 Bedfordshire – Professional Home based Grooms for top Dressage barns. Performance horse experience a must. £32K+ neg. pa *Salary £32K+ totally neg. pa *Lovely modern accommodation with own ensuite – No bills or accommodation charge (photos available) *Private healthcare and workplace pension *Best working conditions. 🙂 Are you someone who is well used to being out and about at competitions but now wants more time at home but in a yard where standards and experience are prized and rewarded? 🙂 An experienced Groom is required, capable of sole charge and have good knowledge of first aid/leg care/professional standards etc). You would be able to work within a happy team or go it alone when needed. If you still have loads of energy and initiative then this could be for you. Stallion experience is ideal but not essential, top-level performance horse experience is critical to the role. 500 acres of parkland, paddocks and equestrian facilities. Indoor Arena, International size Outdoor Arena, Cross Country Course, Barn Style Competition Stables, a Café (50% off) and much, much more. Currently in the process of installing a state-of-the-art rehabilitation facility. Please call Caroline on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com

JL12966 Longcross, Surrey – Live out Groom/Rider required For a VIP family yard on a private estate.

UKME (VIP Private Estate)

Live out Surrey, UK

Job Description We are currently looking for a high calibre, professional Groom to join our high performing operations teams in Longcross, Surrey on a one year fixed term basis. Details As a Groom your responsibilities will include: · Exercising a variety of horses on a daily basis · Mucking out · Turning out · Grooming · Assisting children with their riding · Ensuring the yard is cleaned and maintained to a high standard This role is for a minimum of 40 hours per week and includes weekends. To be successful for the position you must: · Have previous groom/yard experience · Be a strong rider · Have strong communication skills · Have a keen interest in horses and horse care · Have the ability to work a minimum of 40 hours per week (including weekends) · Have your own transport Reward Maximum of 33 days holiday (including bank holidays) Uniform Company pension scheme Private healthcare Voluntary benefits including exclusive savings plus discounted health and leisure benefits Referral scheme

JL108546 Hampshire – Live in Groom/Rider (optional) for family-run Livery Yard

Headley Stud

Live in Hampshire, UK

Job Description We are a really friendly, relaxed & professional yard and are looking for an experienced groom to join our small team of 5 grooms. This is a live in position. We provide individual accommodation with all bills included. We have superb 5 star equestrian facilities. The applicant must be friendly, approachable, adaptable, be confident handling large competition horses and happy to work well in a team. We pride ourselves on the amazing, friendly environment that we have created for both humans and horses. We have 28 horses ranging from our beautiful little ponies through to large warmbloods, plus friends/clients keep their horses with us who are from various different disciplines. We have a fantastic group of staff, clients and horses which creates a fun, friendly & professional atmosphere. Day to day duties will include general yard duties – mucking out, keeping the yard organised and tidy, poo picking, grooming the horses, late night checks, plus some riding (but not essential) We are looking for someone who has a good work ethic, works well within a team, is fun yet professional and has a high standard of care, the horses needs must be top priority. We offer a 5 day week, to include regular weekend days off. Pension, 28 days holiday and a good wage. Minimum Requirements Must be confident handling large horses Accommodation details Self contained flat with air conditioning. No bills or rent. Benefits Optional Pension Scheme 28 days holiday 5 day week

JL122086 Hampshire, Winchester – Live Out Equine Coach required to join College Equine Team

Sparsholt College Hampshire

Live out Hampshire, UK

£23,088 – £26,229 per annum (pro rata if part year) (depending on experience and qualifications) £2,000 fte Recruitment Attraction Payment (pro rata if part time or part year) Full and Part year Exciting opportunities have arisen to join the Sparsholt College Equine Team. Working under the guidance of the Equine Centre Manager we are looking for coaches to join the current team. The post holder will be involved in the planning and delivery of equestrian coaching and practical skills for our Further Education equine students and commercial riding activity. The post holder will have attained a minimum of BHS stage two teach and be willing to attain BHS stage three. The majority of the working hours for this role will be undertaken in normal College hours but may include some weekend and evening cover. Closing Date: 7 October 2024

JL103889 Home Groom Position | Olympic Eventing Yard | Leicestershire

Hoy Enterprises Ltd

Live in Live out Leicestershire, UK

Job Description We are looking for a Home / Yard Groom to join our team of amazing people from around the world. We are a boutique operation – a competition yard with international sport horses at the top level. We are here to win medals – not to sell horses. Attention to detail, good communication skills, willigness to listen, learn and adapt and a ‘High Performance Mindset’ are important to us. Experience is secondary – skills can be aquired, it is the attitude that counts. Minimum Requirements We are looking for candidates who have worked in the environment of a professional yard before – no matter what discipline – and who understand the requirements and demands of a top sporthorse yard. Accommodation details Shared Accomodation is available on Site – individual bedroom/bathroom. Candidates who wish to live out are also welcome. Benefits Free Accomodation with all bills paid for (Council Tax, Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) for Candidates who wish to live on site. 28 Days Holidays, Employer subsidised Pension Scheme, Sick Pay, etc. are provided and part of the standard package for everyone within our team.

How to become a professional groom – 6 simple steps

by Kelly wallace Horne

1. Build and preserve your CV

2. Be honest and stay safe

3. Be sensible in your life choices

4. Know there are no shortcuts to becoming a knowledgeable and experienced groom

5. Nudge things along where necessary and appropriate

6. Understand that no one “owes” anyone anything

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