Call +44 (0)203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com

Employment contracts in the equine industry

Employment contracts in the equine industry

There is often confusion about employment contracts in the equine industry, and it’s very easy for both employers and job seekers to make mistakes that at the least can be a source of misunderstanding and dissatisfaction and in the worst case scenario, can have serious legal and cost implications which potentially can be devastating further on in time.

There seems to be a not uncommonly held perception within the equine industry that an employment contract is somehow optional or not relevant to the world of equestrian employment! For absolute clarification, this is not so and, not to put a too finer point on it, in the eyes if the law ignorance is no defence. That being said, obtaining and then understanding the correct information is not always straightforward. To assist all concerned, in this article we describe as simply as possible:

  • What an employment contract is
  • When the employment contract is given
  • Who should receive an employment contract
  • Examples of illegal employment contracts
  • What happens when an employment contract is broken

Obviously, we are not legal experts, but we are experts in equine recruitment, so the following information is for guidance only. We always advise taking expert legal advice on your specific circumstances.

 

What is an employment contract?

Employment contracts in the equine industry - legal contractsAccording to UK employment laws, as soon as an employee accepts a job offer they have a ‘contract’ with their employer. They do not need to have signed any documents or even have started work – the verbal acceptance of a job legally marks the start of the employment contract, in other words, an employment contract doesn’t have to be written down in order to legally exist!

By default, the acceptance of a job offer triggers a contract that contains relevant statutory rights of the employee, for example:

  • a right to receive a written statement of the terms of employment (known as a Written Statement of Employment Particulars)
  • a right to an itemised pay statement (payslips)
  • a right to maternity leave
  • a right to pay in compensation for being made redundant
  • a right not to be unfairly dismissed

The absence of a written contract does not remove these statutory rights and any contract, verbal or written, that takes away or denies any of these statutory rights is not legally enforceable.

Likewise, there are implied terms that come automatically with employment:

  • the employer’s obligation to provide a secure, safe and healthy working environment
  • mutual obligations not to do anything that might undermine the relationship of mutual ‘trust and confidence’ between the employer and the employee
  • the employee’s obligation to work honestly and faithfully, fulfil reasonable instructions and work with due diligence, skill and care
  • the employee’s obligation not to undermine the employer’s business

This is why it’s so important for employers AND job seekers to understand employment contracts and what they contain, and not make any assumptions.

Why give written employment contracts in the equine industry

 

So, why issue a written employment contract?

All employees are legally entitled to receive a written statement that describes the main terms of the contract of employment. This is usually referred to as a written contract, but the official term for this is a “Written Statement of Employment Particulars”. This isn’t actually the employment contract itself (the employment contract started when the job seeker accepted the job), these are the terms of the employment contract, and they must be issued in writing! This ensures both parties are clear on the employee’s:

  • employment conditions
  • rights
  • responsibilities
  • duties

Both the employee and the employer must stick to the employment contract until it ends (e.g. by the employer or employee giving notice or the employee being dismissed) or until the terms of employment are changed (usually by agreement between the employee and employer).

Whilst most employment contracts do not need to be in writing to be legally valid, it is the employee’s statutory right to receive a Written Statement of Employment Particulars in two parts; the Principle Statement and the Wider Written Statement no later than their first day of work in a new job.

It is rarely true to say an employee “does/did not have an employment contract” as an employment contract as offered and accepted by default when a job offer is made and accepted. What might be true is that the employer never fulfilled their legal obligation to provide a Written Statement of Employment Particulars to the employee.

 


In a nutshell, in employment law, the employment contract works like this:

  1. The employment contract begins when the employer appoints a candidate with a formal job offer (verbally or in writing) and once the candidate accepts the offer they become, legally, an employee.
  2. The employer must give the prospective employee their Written Statement of Employment Particulars no later than their first day of work.
  3. From step 1, both parties are in contract with each other until either terminates the employment, as per the agreement at step one

 

Employment contracts in the equine industry - an infographic


What does the ‘Written Statement of Employment Particulars’ (the written part of the employment contract) contain?

The Written Statement of Employment Particulars can be one single document or it can be made up of several documents if different sections are given at different times. For example, an employer might:

  1. give a new employee a formal offer of employment in writing
  2. give the new employee the Principle Statement of the *Written Statement of Employment Particulars AND the Wider Written Statement of Employment Particulars before or on the first day of their new job

All three documents will form the employee’s Written Statement of Employment Particulars.

No matter how the Written Statement of Employment Particulars is issued, the employee must receive the Principle Statement and the Wider Written Statement in full no later than their first day of work. *You can read more about the legal requirements of the Written Statement of Employment Particulars here.

 

Who should receive a Written Statement of Employment (a written employment contract)?

Employed vs Self-Employed

Employment contracts in the equine industry - Self EmployedFirstly, it’s very important to be clear on what a groom’s employment status is, whether working full or part-time on a permanent or temporary basis.

Many employment rights, such as the right not to be unfairly dismissed and the right to redundancy pay, rely on the groom being an employee. It is common for an employer to call a groom self-employed, freelance or a ‘working pupil’ when they are in fact an employee. Some employers might do this in order to avoid having to pay Tax and National Insurance for their employees and to try to avoid them having employment rights but, in many cases, it is due to a lack of understanding or care on the part of both parties. Again, no legal defence.

Just because a groom pays Income Tax and National Insurance as a ‘self-employed’ individual, it does not automatically follow that they are self-employed rather than an employee! Instead, this is defined by the nature of the working relationship. An example is when a groom has to ask for time off work like an employee rather than tell the employer what days/hours they are available to work like a self-employed person.

To be clear, if an employee:

  • has to ask to take time off work
  • is paid a regular salary rather than per task/requirement
  • is provided work by the employer to fill their hours

and the employer:

  • provides the majority of the tools and equipment required for the job
  • provides/sources cover when the groom is off sick or taking time off work

then it can be argued the person is not self-employed but an employee and requires at least a “Written Statement of Employment Particulars“.

 

Full-Time Grooms

When it is established and mutually agreed that a groom is to work on an employed basis, the employer must provide the Principle Statement and the full “wider Written Statement of Employment Particulars“no later than the Gropom’s first day at work.

 

⇒ Short Term/Temporary Cover

Again, as soon as a person accepts a short term job role they have a verbal contract with their employer, no matter how short the cover required. Both employers and the person concerned must be clear on whether the temporary cover is provided on an employed or self-employed basis, as detailed above.

The employer must give the groom the complete ‘Written Statement of Employment Particulars’, to confirm the terms of the employment if their employment is intended to last at least a month or more. This must include:

  • how long a temporary job is expected to last
  • the end date of a fixed-term contract

The employer must give the groom the complete ‘Written Statement of Employment Particulars’ no later than the day they start their new job.

 

Grooms who travel or work abroad as part of the job

Employment contracts when the employee travels abroadAs with any other employee, the groom must receive their complete ‘Written Statement of Employment Particulars’ no later than their first day of employment; in addition, their employer must state:

  • how long they’ll be abroad
  • what currency they’ll be paid in
  • what additional pay or benefits they’ll get
  • terms relating to their return to the UK

This information can be given to the employee in a separate document, as part of the Written Statement of Employment Particulars.

An employer may send an employee to another of their yards in a country within the European Economic Area (EEA). In this situation employees must get the terms and conditions that are the legal minimum in that country for:

  • working hours and rest breaks
  • holiday entitlement
  • minimum pay (including overtime)

 

Part-time Grooms

A part-time worker must be given their Principle Statement and their “Wider Written Statement of Employment Particulars” no later than their first day of starting a job that’s intended to last at least one month or more.

Again, as soon as a groom accepts a part-time job role they have a verbal contract with their employer, no matter how few hours they work in a week. Both employers and grooms must be clear on whether the temporary cover is provided on an employed or self-employed basis, as detailed above.

 

Freelance Grooms

Freelance Grooms are service providers and the “employer” is their client. The client will have a “contract to provided services” with the Freelance Groom, not an employment contract, and Freelance Grooms do not require a Written Statement of Employment Particulars.

This is another situation in which it is imperative to be clear on the legal status of the individual groom, and not assume that a part-time groom on a zero-hour contract is, by default, a Freelance Groom. Freelance Grooms are self-employed contractors. They are the type of grooms that come in, fully armed with tools and equipment (where appropriate), fully insured, and provide one-off or ad-hoc services or “cover”. A yard/horse owner will book the services of a Freelance Groom in the same way as those of a Farrier, Electrician or maintenance company.

 

Illegal Employment Contracts

Employment contracts in the equine industry - Illegal ContractsAny employment contract will be deemed an illegal contract of employment if:

  • the employee gets all or part of their wages paid cash in hand; and
  • Tax and National Insurance contributions aren’t paid on the wages when they should have been; and
  • the employee knew they were being paid in this way to avoid paying tax and/or national insurance contributions.

A contract of employment will not be illegal if only one of the parties is not declaring the payments and/or making appropriate deductions.

If within a contract an employer tries to take away the employee’s statutory rights, it is not an illegal contract but it cannot be legally enforced.

 

Breach of Contract – What happens when an employment contract is broken?

Employment contracts in the equine industry - Broken ContractsA contract may be broken if either the employee or the employer does not follow a term in the contract, which is known as a “breach of contract”.

For example:

  • if the employer doesn’t pay the employee in lieu of the notice which the groom is entitled to under their contract, this would be a breach of contract.
  • the employee fails to turn up for work without good reason or leaves without giving/working due notice, this would be a breach of contract.

If either party breaks the contract, you should try and sort the matter out between you informally before taking action.

The ACAS Helpline is free to call or if you are a member of the British Grooms Association or Equestrian Employers Association you have specific help on hand for these matters.

 


Sources and further reading

Employment Contracts: UK Government website

Law Donut: www.lawdonut.co.uk/business

ACAS: www.acas.org.uk

The “Written Statement of Employment Particulars” Explained

Making and Accepting a Formal Job Offer

What Happens when a Job Offer is Withdrawn?

Employment Law in the Equine Industry

Get FREE equine recruitment advice

Both employers and jobseekers alike, if you would like free, friendly, no obligation recruitment advice from Caroline please do get in touch!

The content provided in this article is for informational purposes only. It is the responsibility of the individual to ensure that the information they are working to is correct and appropriate for their specific circumstances.

We’re on social media!

Follow us on social media and stay up to date with the latest from The Grooms List. We are quite happy to chat via social media too!

The Grooms List by Caroline Carter Recruitment is on FacebookThe Grooms List by Caroline Carter Recruitment is on Twitter The Grooms List by Caroline Carter Recruitment is on Instagram

 

 

Top Jobs!

We require a Lead Coach for our BHS CLTH Programme – opportunity to join our ever growing team within a business est 49 years. Qualifications Minimum BHS Stage 3 care (or equivalent) and BHS Stage 2 teach or BHS Coaching 4 All qualification recommended to be an APC. Up to date Safeguarding – First Aid and DBS And or Equivalent QTS (qualified Teacher Status) SEN experience Are you looking to take the next step in your career without classroom teaching responsibilities all day everyday (there maybe some subjects to add in as this programme grows eg Maths & English). Full Time Position for CLTH to be actively involved as part of our team. Competitive salary according to BHS & Teaching qualifications/experience. CLTH is a BHS Alternative Provision Education Programme of regular sessions, taking place here at PEC. Your main role is to facilitate and support the development of six key life skills in young people through Equine. Assisted learning. You will guide participants in Developing Communication, confidence, teamwork, building relationships, perseverance and responsibility using the programmes structured awards and activities. Youll also work to ensure the Safety and well being of all participants and the horses involved. CLTH has been running here for 3 years.
*£35K pa and no accommodation costs whatsoever *2 bed lodge house with enclosed lawned garden *Partner considered   *Well-behaved dog considered *Some weekends off by prior arrangement This TB Stud is home to around 20 horses (mares and foals at foot, yearlings, NH racehorses out of training, pre-training, young stock.) The mares are foaled away and return with their foals at foot at approximately 4 weeks of age, so no foaling done on site therefore no routine sitting up! This is a very practical role best suited to someone who is used to and enjoys this environment. You will need to be fully capable and experienced working on your own, but also able to work alongside the family, who are very hands-on. There will also be PT help. This is a role which involves a fair amount of physical work, and you need to be fit and strong for many of the daily tasks. You will handle young, large horses who react instinctively in every situation, so experience and confidence are key. Rider not essential Generally speaking, the role will include but is not limited to: basic horse handling feeding and haying cleaning and maintaining stables, paddocks and equipment may include maintenance of the yard and property operating machinery and equipment equine first aid assisting Vets and Farriers Pls call Caroline on 07747 686118/or 0203 006 5730 or email caroline@carolinecarterrecruiment.com  
Job Description Full time and partime Home grooming position available. Caring for 8-10 competition dressage horses and all the grooming duties that come with that. Including Hacking and lunging / exercising horses dep on experience. Potential for Show grooming. Ideal candidate would be able to take on head person management role overseeing day to day running of the stables and horses (inc managing hay, shavings and feed deliveries. Booking in Vaccinations, farrier ect…) Working closely with rider and team to bring out best in horses and competitive success Minimum Requirements Experience working with fit competition horses.   Accommodation details 1 Bed Flat   Benefits Nest Pension Scheme Accommodation Potential for horse Dogs Welcome Training available Support in advancing career (i.e. Apprenticeship schemes, HGV Licence)
Job Description We are looking for someone with experience to lead a small team on a dressage livery yard. Full time including Sundays. Usual yard duties and general care working with about 12 stabled horses ranging from 3yo to GP stallion. This could also suit a working couple as we have some maintenance requirements also. Minimum Requirements Capable with sports horses, ability to work quickly and to high standard, confident and cheerful. Car and tractor driver. Riding not essential but there could be some for the right person.   Accommodation details Large, bright and lovely 2 bedroom flat on site with bills including internet. No pets.   Benefits Pension, 28 days holiday and discounted horse livery/training possible.  
GROOM REQUIRED (Full time working throughout the year although we will also consider a Job share and part time hours for this role) Five day working week which will include a weekend day. A School Equestrian Centre is seeking a Full-time Groom (or Part-time job share). The Equestrian Centre is a vibrant yard, mainly dealing with children and is part of a School community. We are looking for a competent, friendly and reliable Groom who is energetic and motivated to join the team working in our busy livery yard and riding school. The candidate should have some previous experience. It is an ideal opportunity for a newly qualified coach to gain experience teaching beginners and novice riders as part of a school environment. A teaching qualification is desirable but not essential. We offer a supportive community environment and also a wide range of benefits including an attractive remuneration package. Candidates are requested to submit a brief letter of application, together with the online application and supported by a full CV (via the ‘Apply now’ button) as soon as possible and no later than 9:00 am Friday 20th June 2025. Applications are considered as they are received and therefore the vacancy may close sooner than advertised. We recognise the positive value of diversity, promotes equality and challenges discrimination. We welcome and encourage job applications from people of all backgrounds. All applicants must have the right to work in the UK. The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.  The post holder will be subject to a DBS check.
Equine Technician Salary: Up to £24,243 per annum (pro-rata if part-time) PLUS Potential for a £2,000 Recruitment Attraction Payment (pro-rata if part-time) for experienced appointees Full Time (37hrs per week) Onsite Accommodation Available / Reduced Rental Charge  Exciting opportunities have arisen to join ourTeam. Working under the guidance of the Equine Centre Manager we are looking for full-time and part-time technicians to join the co team at our College and BHS approved livery yard. The primary role is to supervise students and facilitate their learning experience in a real working environment. This will include supervision and support of practical skills and development to maintain high standards in the care, husbandry, and training of our horses. The post holder will lead by example ensuring a positive, educational student experience that learner focused and rewarding. Outside of these sessions you will be working alongside the Equine team to provide high quality care to the college horses ensuring that the horses at the Equine Centre are kept in accordance with BHS standards. The post holder will also be responsible for aspects of administration, organisation, and the carrying out of day-to-day operation and activities associated with a dynamic Equine Centre including delivery of a varied events and competition calendar. Schooling of the College horses is included in this role with an opportunity to compete in on site competitions for suitable candidates. Working hours will include a weekend day and some evening cover. Accommodation in a shared house available Closing Date:  8 June 2025 We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should sufficient applications be received. College Benefits Eligibility to join the Local Government Pension Scheme (a defined benefit pension scheme) Death Benefit grant of 3 x salary if in the pension scheme Free on-site parking Occupational Sick Pay Scheme Occupational Maternity Pay Scheme Holiday entitlement of 22 days (rising to 25 days after 5 years’ service) plus Public and Bank Holidays along with college closure days at Xmas. (pro-rated for part-time staff) Access to an employee assistance scheme Facility to purchase our produce including: plants, fruit & vegetables, fish and game. Access to discounted hair treatments at the Andover campus Ability to access a range of CPD events and support with undertaking professional qualifications and training towards BHS assessments Various food outlets and eateries offering good value food and drink at competitive prices There is a nursery on the on site operated by a commercial provider   Safeguarding Statement The College is committed to safeguarding and promotes the welfare of all learners and expects all staff to share this commitment. All successful applicants will be required to undertake a Disclosure and Barring (DBS) check and to provide proof of their eligibility to work in the UK.  
Millfield School is seeking a highly skilled Equestrian Coach to join our team at the prestigious Millfield Equestrian Centre on a maternity cover one-year fixed term contract from September 2025. In this role, you will have the exciting opportunity to deliver exceptional technical coaching and competition programmes for our talented Equestrian riders. We are searching for an individual who possesses not only exceptional coaching abilities, but also the drive to help foster the growth of our department. You will be responsible for implementing a comprehensive technical coaching programme for riders of all levels, while also bringing fresh ideas and innovative concepts to enhance training and development. To be successful in this role, you must possess a minimum of 5 years practical coaching experience working with youth development riders across various equestrian disciplines. BHS accreditation Stage 4 coaching or UKCC level 2 qualification is a minimum required qualification level, and experience overseeing rider and horse development plans is highly desirable. Ideal candidates will also hold an HGV driver’s license and have a comprehensive understanding of the equestrian world, including the competitive landscape. This is a fixed term position from 1st September 2025 until 31st August 2026, offering a 42-hour work week from Monday to Saturday for 52 weeks per year. In return for your dedication and expertise, you will receive a competitive salary of up to £35,454 per annum (dependent on qualifications and experience), along with 10 weeks of holiday. Additionally, you will have access to the school facilities, enjoy freshly prepared lunches for just £10 per month, and benefit from discounts/cashback at various high street shops and restaurants through the school’s Employee Assistance Programme. **Please note that applications will be considered on receipt, and as a result the vacancy may close early should an appointment be made. As such we would recommend submitting your application as soon as possible**    
Job Description We’re looking to add an additional show groom to our team. The position is to join a nice team of 3-4 others, live in, and the ability to travel to national and international shows. All daily yard duties with a focus on being a traveling show groom. 6 days a week with a fixed day off, PTO included. Minimum Requirements Some previous experience preferred, HGV license a major plus but not necessity.   Accommodation details Very modern and well equipped house on the yard. Each room has their own en suite and plenty of space. All utilities included in salary.   Benefits A fun, relaxed and professional team. Respectful of scheduled hours when at home. Starting salary can be discussed in relation to prior experience.  
Job Description We are looking for a motivated individual to join our friendly team on a small privately owned stud.  Good knowledge and experience working with thoroughbreds would be an advantage, ranging from yearlings to older mares. Horse care and stable management is the main priority. No foaling or foal watching. Duties include all stable and horse care, mucking out and grooming. 1 Bedroom house available on a beautiful estate. Full time live in 6 days a week to include every other weekend, this can be discussed at interview. Weekday hours 8am to 4pm weekend hours 8am to 11am – 3pm to 4pm. 28 days holiday and optional pension scheme.   Minimum Requirements Knowledge of stud work or working with young thoroughbreds useful.   Accommodation details 1 Bed house available.  
*Top remuneration available, (negotiable on experience and lorry license qualification) *Accommodation available on site or employer would fund off site accommodation in local village if required * Dog welcomed but no room for own horse. *International level facilities Fantastic opportunity for a motivated Show Groom to join a motivated team who have a great track record competing at home and abroad. A good Competition Groom/Travelling Groom is an indispensable part of a competing team, without whom most top riders would not be able to achieve what they achieve, in this is a role where you would be truly valued. Excellent turnout skills, horse and rider management abilities and experience at SJ competitions is essential. An HGV is ideal but not essential. Show – Groom experience is the priority. Whilst away, sometimes for 6 weeks at a time, you would have sole charge of a handful of quality Show Jumpers (no stallions) but at home, you would be part of a dedicated team with staff available for much of the mucking out Rider not essential. For more details and/or to apply, Pls call Caroline on 07747 686118/or 0203 006 5730 or email caroline@carolinecarterrecruiment.com
Job Description We are looking for a Temporary Groom to join our small, efficient team looking after 12 horses. Our horses are mainly driving horses, some are ridden, and one is retired. We take part in driving competitions over the spring and summer months. We would ideally like someone who can also ride some of the horses. Driving experience not necessary – we will teach you to drive! Both myself and my husband drive, and we already have a full time Groom, plus a Groom coming in 4 days a week. This role is a 5 day week, starting at 9am and finishing at 5 pm, with a break for lunch. Additional hours are available if you would like to do more. Minimum Requirements Ability to work with others and care for horses.   Accommodation details N/A, this is a live-out job.   Benefits Great working conditions, workplace pension, 28 days holiday, excellent riding facilities, caring employers.  
Job Description We are a professional, yet relaxed and friendly yard looking for a full-time, live-in, Head Groom to look after our own 13 horses and ponies. We offer 5 star facilities, a 5 day week, 28 days holiday & optional pension scheme. Duties include all general yard duties and 5 star day to day care of our 8 horses & 5 rescue ponies. The applicant must be experienced, dedicated, friendly, trustworthy, enthusiastic & confident in handling large competition horses. We have a wide range of horses from our own little rescue ponies up to large warmbloods & any thing in between. All of the horses are well behaved & extremely lovely. We are a small friendly team who always put the horses needs first. The applicant must be able to take charge, turn out to a high standard and be willing to muck in and out and more importantly love the horses as much as we do. We are extremely proud of the friendly atmosphere at our yard and are looking for someone with the same genuine love for horses and cheery personality to match ours.   Minimum Requirements Experience preferred.   Accommodation details Accommodation available, partner welcome.   Benefits Pension scheme 28 Days Annual Leave  
We are now looking for an experienced competent rider to join our team. With up and coming youngsters ready to begin their careers. This Warmblood Stud is the home of Stallions and Broodmares. We have the pleasure of owning and producing beautiful and versatile warmblood horses.  Our bloodlines include some of the top in the  Country ;- Concorde, Kannan, Voltaire, Zirocco Blue, Cardento, Kashmir V. We are based in West Wales near Tregaron in a stunning rural location with purpose built equine facilities with an Equine Therapy and Spa onsite. We also have our own racewood eventer simulator which staff have regular training. Set in the midst of the idyllic Cambrian Mountains we are graced with beautiful outriding and our horses benefit with hacking out as part of their daily routines. These quality Warmbloods are or have competed in show jumping competition in this country and abroad. This full time, live in or out role in a newly built accommodation bedroom with own bathroom under floor heating and shared stunning living dining kitchen onsite. Or a self contained bedsit own access We need a competent rider to join the team. Most importantly to work with our wonderful team,  getting the best from our horses. This will include general yard duties working as part of the team producing young stock and competing our stallions.   The role is 5 days per week including alternate weekends and flexibility if we go out to shows at the week days and weekends. We are a mixed yard competition horses (stallions), youngstock, broodmares and general riding horses. We have some very well bred, exciting youngsters for the future. We are a very busy yard this could be a hugely rewarding role for the right person. A super friendly team. Accommodation details – Live in is available for one person also local livery close by which is an option for own horse. must already live in the UK we have no facilities to sponsor a worker.  
Job Description Full time job/Live in Join us in Powys on the Shropshire border. We are a friendly small team at a private home. We require someone to look after & take pride in the grounds & gardens in the Summer. Who’s also confident to help the girls with stable work in our family 7 Horse Hunting Yard in the Winter. Opportunity to ride out. Maintenance & General help in the houses & grounds. Dog walking – must love dogs! Occasional driving. Accommodation is a cottage on site Well behaved dog welcome Minimum Requirements Lawn Mowing & Gardening experience Worked on horse yards before   Accommodation details A private 2 Bed 2 Bath Cottage on site (only suitable for one person as the 2nd bedroom needs refurbishment) Private courtyard & good size storage shed Well behaved dog is welcome  
Job Description An international sport- and dealing-stable in Dielsdorf, Switzerland, is looking for a friendly, experienced and reliable person taking care 3 private sporthorses and able to start as soon as possible. Duties include grooming, tacking, therapies (massage rugs, ice, etc.), bandaging, bathing, trimming, clipping, plaiting, show preparation, show grooming, braiding, first aid, lunging, laundry, organizing of tack room, feeding and cleaning stalls.   Accommodation details Very nice accommodation with own kitchen and bathroom.   Benefits Competitive salary, social insurances, accident insurance, working contract and working permit for Switzerland    
Job Description We are looking for a motivated individual to join our team on a full time basis as a head groom/yard manager. The job will include usual groom duties and management of up to 10 fit dressage horses of varying ages. The role would suit a driven, positive and ambitious individual that wants to work in the dressage industry. Lovely accommodation available on site but can be live out if very local. Right candidate able to bring own horse. Job includes running the yard and all usual groom duties (preparation for shows including plaiting) as well as overseeing horses schedules and management. The right candidate must have experience working on a professional competition yard and uphold the highest standards. It would be a real bonus if applicant has HGV licence and experience driving lorries. We’re really looking for someone who wants to become a key member of the team and loves what they do. We currently have a lovely, small team of staff, so you must be able to work well with others. Most importantly, the top priority is finding someone that loves the horses like they are their own and is invested in their journeys. Would suit someone who only wants to groom or equally someone that wants small amount of riding eg young rider wanting to gain experience and receive training. Minimum Requirements Ideally experience working on yard competing at FEI International level (dressage if possible) Confident with fresh, fit horses UK driving license   Accommodation details Accommodation available on site. Private bedroom with ensuite (shower and bath) in modern communal flat shared with 2 other event grooms. Lovely shared kitchen and washing facilities. Dogs and partner allowed at extra cost.  
Job Description We are looking for another member for the Team. This is an opportunity to join a forward thinking dynamic team that provide top class riding holidays for people from all over the world. Attitude and happy personality essential. Must be able to ride to a high standard, must be able to be responsible for guests out on hacks. Must be willing to help with stable cleaning 2 days a week. Must clean horses and tack and if required help with novice guests. Please only apply if you have a European passport The position is until the end of October The applicant will have a full Spanish contract and pay tax on the above amounts.   Minimum Requirements MUST HAVE A EUROPEAN PASSPORT Must be able to drive. Must ride to a high standard – laterals Must be a kind rider. Must be responsible and quiet in the stables   Accommodation details Private accommodation with bathroom   Benefits Tips, food car available for local journeys  
Job Description Perform daily stable yard and field duties, including feeding, handling, and grooming horses. Muck out and clean stables to a high standard. Report any horse ailments, infections, or injuries to the Head Groom immediately. Administer necessary treatments to horses as directed. Exercise allocated horses daily through lunging, hacking, schooling, or track cantering. Safely lead fit horses, including stallions. Check and maintain the safety and serviceability of all equipment, reporting any repairs needed. Ensure riding arenas are clean and tidy at the end of each day. Transport horses as required. Assist in client activity preparation tasks and riding activities, following correct procedures. To buddy with new starters as part of their induction. Any tasks or responsibilities as requested by management within the scope of the position.   Knowledge and Skills: Experience working as a Groom (Essential) Experience in horse care (Essential) Ability to ride to BHS Stage 2 standard (Desirable) Clean driving licence (Essential) Experience working with children (Desirable) Equine qualification (Desirable).   Accommodation details Live in accommodation available or live out
Job Description Perform daily stable yard and field duties, including feeding, handling, and grooming horses. Muck out and clean stables to a high standard. Report any horse ailments, infections, or injuries to the Head Groom immediately. Administer necessary treatments to horses as directed. Exercise allocated horses daily through lunging, hacking, schooling, or track cantering. Safely lead fit horses, including stallions. Check and maintain the safety and serviceability of all equipment, reporting any repairs needed. Ensure riding arenas are clean and tidy at the end of each day. Transport horses as required. Assist in client activity preparation tasks and riding activities, following correct procedures. To buddy with new starters as part of their induction. Any tasks or responsibilities as requested by management within the scope of the position.   Knowledge and Skills: Experience working as a Groom (Essential) Experience in horse care (Essential) Ability to ride to BHS Stage 2 standard (Desirable) Clean driving licence (Essential) Experience working with children (Desirable) Equine qualification (Desirable).  
We’re looking for a knowledgeable and motivated Yard Manager to take the lead on our day-to-day yard operations and support our horses, riders, and team. This is a hands-on, leadership role for someone who loves being in the thick of it, is confident managing others, and has a true passion for horse welfare and stable management. As Yard Manager, your duties will include: Taking full responsibility for the day-to-day running of the yard Ensuring all horses are healthy, well looked after, and prepared for daily lessons Overseeing the grooming, feeding, turnout, and medical care routines Managing feed and bedding supplies, as well as record-keeping for horse health and farrier/vet schedules Leading, mentoring and organising junior staff, volunteers and apprentices Upholding high standards of cleanliness, safety and yard presentation Communicating with riding instructors to ensure smooth operation of lessons and horse allocation We’re after someone who is: Experienced in yard and horse management (minimum 2–3 years in a similar role) Knowledgeable and confident in handling a variety of horses A calm and kind leader with great people skills Reliable, self-motivated, and organised Committed to the highest standards of equine care Comfortable working in a busy yard environment and able to adapt to the day’s challenges Ideally BHS qualified (or equivalent experience) We believe in supporting our team and rewarding hard work. As part of your role at MA Equestrian, you’ll receive: Staff riding opportunities – keep up your riding with our wonderful horses Ongoing training and professional development A warm and welcoming team environment Possibility to stable your own horse Beautiful countryside setting Real opportunities to shape the role and grow within the business Full-time position with a flexible rota, including weekends and some evenings

© Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd and The Grooms List, 2025. Unauthorised use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd and www.thegroomslist.co.uk with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Equine Careers | Equine Grooms | Equine Jobs | Equestrian Jobseekers

How many times have our articles been read?

  • 2,956,406

Information

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd
PO Box 89
SHEFFORD
SG17 9AY

info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com
0203 006 5730

Registered company number 10657796good site
Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd is registered with the UK Information Commissioner as a data controller with registered number ZA250621

ENDORSED BY

Admin Quick Search

Search Employers

Search Jobs

Search Candidates