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Equine Apprenticeships – invaluable education or slave labour?

Equine Apprenticeships – invaluable education or slave labour?

Equine Apprenticeships - Winning at your career developmentApprenticeships are officially on the rise. In fact, vacancies for apprentices have risen by 15% over the last year. Learning your trade alongside employers, experienced grooms and sometimes even our equestrian icons can help you to develop job-specific skills and earn a wage at the same time. No long-term life-altering student loans for the wily apprentice!

As your skills continue to develop, your earnings potential will increase too. What’s not to like about boosting your career prospects by developing the key skills that employers within the horse world really want. As a recruiter looking at CVs, I certainly consider that formal apprenticeships set a standard we can trust to consider the significant value added to many equine horse jobs applications, especially those looking to find their first serious horse job. This week Becky Parker has had a good look at all the available information to help demystify some of it. Over to you Becky…

Caroline

 


An overview of equine Apprenticeships

By Becky Parker

Fresh from the clutches of 11 years enforced education, drunk on your own freedom (honestly guv I’m just really happy), the prospect of earning a proper wage dangled in front of you tantalisingly, it can be tough persuading yourself to think long-term about career planning. The prospect of returning to a classroom for college courses or perhaps a degree holds no appeal for those who struggle with formal education or are just fed up with the confinement of a classroom.

Equine Apprenticeships - Invaluable Education or Slave Labour - Equine IndustryApprenticeships provide an alternative way to achieve formal, nationally recognised qualifications with training delivered in the workplace rather than a classroom. Learners are able to ‘earn while they learn’ as the tagline goes. The equine industry is famously fast-paced and physical, and there is unanimous thinking when it comes to the verdict that there is really no substitute for practical, on and off the job training. An equine Apprenticeship allows you to gain this in an unexploited, structured and planned way whilst also gaining the piece of paper to prove it.

Many of us long in the tooth now, remember fondly (or not) how in the good old days we started our equine career with Cressida von Jingo Smith-Evans, who housed us in a caravan on top of a windy hill and made us work 72 hours a day for 50p an hour and a bowl of gruel…yes? Well, apprenticeships can help avoid that and will give you memories of working for Cressida von Jingo Smith-Evans for a fair apprentice wage, working sensible, legal hours, living in decent accommodation, and gaining a formal qualification to boot!

 

Is there an age restriction on equine Apprenticeships?

Since 2016 young people aged 16 and 17 must, by law, stay in education, either in the form of an Apprenticeship/Traineeship or at College or Sixth form. There is no upper age limit on taking an apprenticeship course however, your age will dictate how much money the government will pay toward your training:
At age 16-18: Full government funding of the cost of training for employers with less than 50 employees.
At age 19+: Up to 95% government funding, so the employer will have to pay for the remaining fee.

Have a chat with an equine Apprenticeship provider to find out the options available to you.

 

Equine Apprenticeships - Invaluable Education or Slave Labour - Diplomas and other qualificationsThe Qualifications

Apprenticeships can be gained through a selection of different providers, each who will work in partnership with employers. When choosing a provider look at:

  • Whether they can offer you a placement in a discipline that truly interests you for the future.
  • Whether they offer Traineeships – this is a government based initiative designed to be a stepping stone on the way to full equine apprenticeships for candidates with essentially no prior experience working with horses. It is a short unpaid course between 6 weeks and 6 months, a typical average being 12-13 weeks. Traineeships combine work preparation training, for example CV writing and job finding skills, with a work placement plus Maths and English, if needed. The maximum hours per weeks is 30 which includes both study time and work experience. By the end of the course you are guaranteed an interview for a full apprenticeship. Note – only some training providers cater for this option. 
  • Whether there is a mix of training, ie: some providers will carry out all their assessments in the workplace whilst others will require you to attend the college campus for short periods of time. This can vary from one or two days every 4-6 weeks to say, 1 in every 5 working days.

 

Apprenticeship Levels

Level 2 Equine Groom Standard (Intermediate Groom)

The Level 2 Apprenticeship is for those starting out with a basic knowledge of horse care i.e. through owning their own or weekend yard jobs but still have limited industry experience. By the end of the course you should be comfortable taking care of all yard duties, assisting with minor injuries and working to an acceptable speed in a busy professional yard handling and exercising a variety of types of horses. Course Duration = 12-15 months, leading to an independent endpoint assessment.

 

Level 3 Equine Apprenticeship Framework (Advanced Groom)

The Level 3 Apprenticeship aims to produce grooms fit to head straight into senior groom roles such as head girl, main competition groom, sole charge or head lad depending on your specific interest. By the end of the course you should be proficient in all areas of care including recognising and treating injuries, have a basic understanding of anatomy and physiology, clipping, show turnout and have competition grooming experience. The course also involves learning to manage a small to medium team of staff taking on a supervisory role leading by example and advising others how to progress themselves.

Course Duration = 18-24 months with on-program assessment.

 

Equine Apprenticeships - Invaluable Education or Slave Labour - Equine CareersPathways

For the Level 2 Standard there are 5 different pathways to choose from that will shape the direction and specifics of your apprenticeship. These are:

  • Breeding
  • Driving
  • Racing
  • Riding
  • Non-riding

For the level 3 Framework there are 4 different pathways to choose from:

  • Breeding
  • Racing
  • Riding
  • Non-riding

 

Advanced Apprentice In Sporting Excellence (AASE)

The AASE is an Apprenticeship designed for elite athletes aged 16-19, identified by their National Governing Body as having the potential to excel in their sport.

British EventingBritish Dressage and British Showjumping all run AASE courses.

To find out more about the equine Apprenticeships available to you contact an official provider of equine Apprenticeships – links provided at the end of this article.

 

Equine Apprenticeships - Invaluable Education or Slave Labour - Earn while you learnThe Wage

Admittedly this is not a lot if you’re aged 16-18 or you’re 19+ in your first year apprenticeship you are entitled to the National Minimum Wage for Apprentices which from 1st April 2022 – 31st March 2023 is set at £4.81 per hour. If you’re 19+ and in the second year apprenticeship the minimum you must be paid by law is the National Minimim Wage for your age, just like any other groom.  Fortunately, in the equine industry jobs will often (but not always) include accommodation, all bills, perhaps livery for a horse and in some cases food, which are great benefits. Compare this to the cost of going to college or University where you will receive no wage at all and pay for accommodation and you’re winning. As an apprentice between the ages of 16-18 the maximum hours you can work is 40 over a 5-day week and you must have 2 consecutive days off. Once over 18 you can work up to 48 hours per week and your days off do not need to be consecutive.

 

The Contract

You will have an ‘Apprenticeship Agreement’ which will be provided to you by the training provider. It is the agreement between the Employer and Apprentice regarding the training to be delivered as part of the Apprenticeship.

In addition, you must be given a “Written Statement of Employment Particulars” (aka Written Contract).

You will be an employee, which may be an open-ended or a fixed term contract for the duration of your Apprenticeship, and thus all employment laws will apply to you. You must be given a Principle Statement of Employment no later than your first day of work and your Wider Written Statement of Employment within your first 2 months of employment as an Apprentice. However, it is good practice for you to receive it prior starting the position.

The document must:

  1. provide that the apprentice undertakes to work for the employer under the agreement
  2. be in the prescribed form in that it must contain certain minimum information, such as the place of work, job title, rate of pay, holiday entitlement etc.
  3. state that it is governed by the Law of England and Wales
  4. state that it is entered into in connection with a qualifying apprenticeship framework

 

Weighing things up

Equine Apprenticeships - Invaluable Education or Slave Labour - Building your equine careerNow let’s take an objective look at whether equine Apprenticeships work in your favour or not…

PROS

  • Importantly, hands-on  INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE which will make you instantly more attractive to future employers.
  • Equine Apprenticeships provide young people with a positive, supportive start into the working world.
  • Training providers help students with guided career development to ensure they make educated decisions when they move on.
  • Structured pay, benefits and holidays overseen by the training providers ensuring learners are treated fairly.
  • Placements at top yards who otherwise might not consider junior staff.
  • A structured program of learning that ensures you constantly progress and address any weaknesses.
  • Confidence in your ability through passing assessments and feedback from tutors.
  • Multiple references for your CV from employers and tutors.

CONS

  • The wage is usually lower than you would earn as a fully qualified groom.
  • As a trainee you will be starting with the basics, including the less desirable jobs!
  • If you are a more mature student (19+) employers have to contribute 5% towards the cost of your training, so it may be harder to find placements.

*It’s worth noting that, whilst an apprenticeship is work-based training, a commitment to studying the horse care knowledge required is essential!

 

Alternative Options

Equine Apprenticeships - Invaluable Education or Slave Labour - Gain formal qualificationsAlways ensure you explore every option before making a final decision, bearing in mind that 16-18 year olds are now required by law to remain in full time education or training. Alternative ways to get started in a career with horses are;

1. Gaining your BHS Qualifications (for 16-18 year olds: alongside full time education)

See our past article all about this subject to learn more – www.thegroomslist.co.uk/equine-careers-bhs-qualifications/

2. Studying full time at an equine college

An attractive option to many horse lovers instead of traditional A levels/uni is to opt for a vocational college instead where you will be trained in a mix of theoretical and practical skills including riding. Most colleges also have a live-in option, many an ex-student has a tale or two to tell about the shenanigans taking place there.

3. Junior Grooms

There are still some yards who will employ ‘Junior Grooms’. Although the term “Junior Groom” implies someone young, a Junior Groom role can be available for anyone, although as an inexperienced “trainee” it is likely you will earn little or no more than the National Minimum Wage for your age until you have gained a certain amount of experience. If  studying in any form is really not for you, or perhaps you wish to pursue a riding career and are offered a role that provides you with many opportunities under a very supportive coach/professional rider, and you are aged 18 or above, this could in some situations be worth it. Just ensure any promises made to you are made in writing and adhered to, and that your salary and “Working Contract” meet legal requirements.

Working Pupil and Junior Groom jobs – a word of advice

The terms “working pupil” and “Junior Groom” are often used to describe job roles suitable for less experienced grooms, but it is important to understand the legalities of these job descriptions. The term “Working Pupil” implies that you are an employee working under the tutelage of your boss or a superior, more experienced colleague. The term “Junior Groom” implies that you are a less experienced groom than your colleagues. The fact is in both cases, you are simply a “Trainee Groom” – you will not be receiving any recognised qualification or certification on completion of your training, and the training you will receive will be subjective to the yard/environment you are working in and not governed by any official entity. This isn’t to say that “Working Pupil”, “Junior Groom” or “Trainee Groom” positions are a bad thing – they are often the job roles that start off extremely successful equine careers, but it is important that you are not exploited in any way through your own, or your employer’s naivety about these terms.

The simple facts to remember are:

  1. 16-17 year olds MUST remain in formal, full time education, and so cannot by law accept a role as a “Working Pupil” or “Junior Groom” unless it is within a proper apprenticeship.
  2. A Working Pupil or Junior Groom who is not officially employed may not be covered by the employers/yard owners insurance should the untoward happen!
  3. The ONLY job role legally entitled to pay less than the National Minimum Wage for your age is an Apprenticeship, which is subject to a separate wage scale and contractual obligation, as detailed above. And by ‘Apprenticeship’ we mean in truth, not in job title alone. Your equine Apprenticeship will be provided by an official body (for example Educ8 Equine).
  4. ANY other Working Pupil/Junior Groom/Training Groom role is subject to the same National Minimum Wage and contractual obligations as any other employment role. Do not ever accept a salary that is less than the National Minimum Wage for your age in exchange for training on the job.

The British Grooms Association (BGA) provide further information about the term “Working Pupil” here.

If you are an employer or employee and are uncertain of the legalities surrounding this matter please don’t hesitate to contact us for a no-obligation, confidential chat about the employment status.

Equine Apprenticeships - Invaluable Education or Slave Labour - a solid start to your equine career

Conclusion

Ultimately the only person who can decide whether an Apprenticeship is the right career path for you, is YOU! It can help at times like this to employ Caroline’s method described in her New Year’s blog post and stand back to take a helicopter view of your life. Daydream on where you would like to be 5 years from now and work out the best way to get there. Always be honest with yourself about your own strengths and weaknesses, what will you enjoy most? What are you most likely to stick at? What’s right for some people is completely wrong for others!

If you do decide to go down the Apprenticeship route don’t be afraid to reference check your employer too, ask to speak to current or past working pupils and find out if the job description matches and if the working environment is one you can see yourself fitting in with. Once the decision is made, commit to the job and training completely. Be prepared to work hard and show yourself to be a keen apprentice willing to learn and you will be set for a flying start to your equine career!

Links for more information

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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.

© Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd and The Grooms List, 2024. 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.

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Top Jobs!

Job Description This role will involve: Taking sole responsibility for the running one of the yards. Looking after horses to a high standard Competent rider Knowledge of horse care Cleanliness is a must Going to tournaments on a day to day basis HGV license is a massive bonus but not essential Great fun job, with the opportunity to make great friends in a social sport.   Accommodation details Accommodation can be provided.
Job Description We require a Polo Groom/Rider to join our small team to help look after our lovely horses. The job involves plenty of riding, mucking out, keeping the horses looking good, travelling to tournaments, ensuring the yard is tidy and generally helping the club run smoothly. Our horses are all very easy but you must be a competent rider as you will be required to ride and lead. The job is varied and fun.  No Polo experience required as full training given.
Job Description All yard duties, become part of existing team, tacking up, preparing horses for shows etc. Riding for the right applicant Minimum Requirements 3 years experience with horses   Accommodation details On site Static Caravan Accommodation   Benefits Training Provided Own Horse Possible Pets allowed Riding Opportunities  
Searching for a groom to join a growing competition yard with top-class facilities. Confidence and ability to handle fit competition horses from young stock to 4* is a must; with a general love of horses and the sport. Previous experience on a professional yard preferred, but not a necessity. General day-to-day yard duties, lunging, riding etc. HGV a bonus. Applicants must also have/be: • Happy • Enthusiastic • Can-do attitude • A team player • Reliable • Good communication A good salary to reflect level of experience. 5 days a week. Fantastic on-site accommodation available in a 4 bed house. Well behaved dog welcome. Own horse considered.  
*£25k-£30k pa available  plus accommodation *Live in or out *5-day week (one weekend a month to work/ adhoc Saturday on odd occasions) *Partners welcomed *Families welcomed *Dog possible *Woodland and beach riding available  Head Groom position. This is to replace someone who was in the role previously for almost 8 years. You would be required to look after a happy family yard who do a bit of everything. This friendly and relaxed yard is set in stunning parkland. The role involves supervising a fearless young girl who wants to compete at Hickstead one of these days and 4 boys who only ride recreationally and only once in a while. All will need some supervision. The Parents hunt/leisure ride Whilst mostly home-based, some outings are required, but not loads, approx 2-3 x per month, (local shows – working hunter; pony Club activities, hacking out some schooling and in the Summer there is Beach Riding, woodland Riding). There are 3 main hunters (2 x greys!) iro 16.3 and 2x ponies(1 x13HH, child’s pony/ 1 mini) Confident, capable and enthusiastic rider is essential for the horses. All duties of a professional groom in sole charge will be expected, including, but not limited to: Building up and maintaining fitness levels Care of Tack, Tack Room and Stables Paddock maintenance Basic knowledge of equine first aid – the ability to spot and deal with minor wounds etc HGV licence would be a significant bonus as would a trailer licence Supervision of part-time /temporary groom(s) – 1 part-timer and adhoc   Core working hours will be between 0800 and 1700, however, some flexibility is expected and reciprocated vs the needs of the Estate and the requirements of the role with the need to start earlier and finish later when necessary. Please call Caroline & the Team on 0203 006 5730 or email caroline@carolinecarterrecruitment.com
Cambridgeshire – Permanent, experienced team Groom/Rider for established and traditional Hunting. *IRO £22K+accommodation (pay own electricity) *warm, cosy 1-bed apartment *Dog welcomed *Lots of riding on big, fit hunters *Great for experienced Groom or a chance to get some proper Hunt Yard experience on your CV! Lovely position available on a well-established, traditional family hunt yard within a beautiful estate. Fun, professional team renowned for being great at what they do. You will work hard but be treated well and have a very rewarding job! The position involves all grooming duties to a good standard. Lots of riding is available but you must be a strong confident good jockey, (horses ranging from 15.2-18.2HH and are fit and well). You will be taught to clip, plait (sew plaits) etc but if you already possess these skills even better.  5.5 days a week (Sunday off and half a day in the week) Hours are 6.30- 12. 30 and then just 1.5 hours in the afternoon (1.00 pm). Great facilities/menage/lunge pen/500 acres/excellent hacking. Call Caroline & the Team on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com  
*Single or family person welcomed (including children.) *Dog welcomed but not on the yard* *5 day week * IRO £25K -£35Kpa +/- plus accommodation neg. . The employer is a semi-professional carriage driver and his wife has a strong equestrian background. Carriage driving experience is helpful but not essential.  Strong horsemanship skills on the ground and under saddle along with yard management skills are, however, essential. Groundwork and long-reining ability also are highly desirable. The horses are ridden (hacked and schooled to a good level under saddle). Candidates should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the nature of horses and possess all the usual skills including the ability to turn a horse out and there is an opportunity to learn to drive. There are 7 horses which are Dutch harness horses 16HH-16.2HH (2x mares and 5 geldings), these are typically WB Dutch dressage type horses. The employer is constantly back and forth to the yard/abroad where he runs a thriving business so a track record of RELIABILITY is key. Please note due to protracted absences of the employer, this position has a contracted 3-month notice period. Accommodation options are available. Very well appointed 2 beds/2 baths flat on-site and a lovely house in the village close by is available meantime. Please note due to protracted absences of the employer, this position has a contracted 3-month notice period. Good yards close by if you have a horses (s) Small family estate. Indoor and outdoor ménages, good hacking. Great facilities -walker/washdown etc. Please call Caroline & the Team on 0203 006 5730 or email caroline@carolinecarterrecruitment.com
Job Description Looking for a dedicated and motivated team player to join our busy yard in a role as a competition groom with plenty of travelling. Will suit someone that wants to be closely involved with the competition horses and help achieve exciting goals with them. A full time, live in or live out position which includes all day to day yard duties and working with the horses at home and away at shows. Must clip, plait and turnout to a high standard. Will need to be happy driving a 3.5t horsebox and HGV license is a bonus. A love of the horses and high standards and attention to detail are the most important. Role will include competition grooming for myself as well as taking clients to shows, horses to the treadmill, vets etc. We have a string of horses from youngsters up to 4* eventers and also compete BS regularly including Hickstead throughout the summer. The right person will need to be organised, cheerful and hopefully slightly OCD. Must work well in a team and be good with clients as well as being happy working on own initiative and motivation. Someone who also likes and is happy to pitch in with young children is also a huge bonus. Current team of staff have all been here between one and five years. Littleton has exceptional facilities and is one big family (even if it is a slightly bonkers one at times). Hopefully someone wants to come and join us for the ride! Ideally looking for someone from the start of April however this is flexible as right person is paramount. Previous experience in this specific role not essential but must have good yard work experience and ideally some competition grooming so far. Riding can be part of the job but not compulsory. Competitive package with a contract including pension, paid holiday etc
Job Description We are looking for a Stable Hand / Groom to join our 5* Equestrian Centre. Top facilities on a newly developed Centre. 2 to 5 Days a week, minimum Saturday and Sunday cover, 7:45am start with a lunch break. Yard finishes about 6pm. Candidate must work well as a team, competent in the stable yard, friendly, self motivated, honest & kind with our horses. Fantastic opportunity to work with Mrs Sam van den Berg, International Level 2 Instructor! Excellent package, dependant on experience & ability! We look forward to meeting the new future member of out Team! Minimum Requirements Experienced Groom, able to work efficiently, at high standard. Punctual, friendly, team worker! Must be local or have reliable transport, as bus service is not always reliable   Accommodation details No accommodation available   Benefits Working on a 5* establishment, top wage package. £150 Signing Bonus after successful completion of 3 months probation period.    
Job Description We’re in search of a dedicated full-time team member to join the close-knit Magna Horses family. As a valued member, you’ll play an important role in our passion-driven, family-owned business focused on caring and producing top quality horses. Ideal candidates will: – Prioritise reliability and be a trustworthy team member. – Have experience in handling young horses and stallions – Thrive in both team environments and be able to work on their own – Complete all basic yard duties to a high standard, including mucking out, hay net filling, and turning out, with additional opportunities for the right person. – Most importantly have a love and understanding for competition-ready horses of varying ages. We invite people with their own horses, offering a competitive salary, excellent facilities, and potential additional benefits. Minimum Requirements Be comfortable around horses and like them! We can offer training as long as you are happy to undertake general yard duties.   Accommodation details Regrettably, accommodation is not currently provided.   Benefits We invite people with their own horses, offering a competitive salary, excellent facilities, and potential additional benefits. Also, we will include free flat work/dressage or in-hand lessons with GB U25 Grand Prix rider You can ride your horse during day light horses (probably lunchtime) – yard duties can be done after dark, riding your horse can’t! Located in picturesque Wiltshire(SP3), with fabulous off road hacking.  
Job Description Self-employed groom sought 3-5 hours a day, generally 5 days a week, to care for and manage three competition horses in a private yard between Cirencester and Cheltenham, Gloucestershire (GL54) We are seeking an enthusiastic, reliable, efficient, trustworthy person.  The person needs to be capable of sole charge, with high standards and a good level of equine management, including fitness, and riding skills for hacking and schooling.  Ability to clip, plait, and turn out to show/event standard is required. The role is for someone who is a good communicator, open minded to occasional equine complementary therapy, and adaptable to usual competition flexibility, with a sense of humour. Whilst there are usually people around, initiative and responsibility is required The person will be responsible for organising and booking the diary, for lessons, farrier, vaccinations, chiropractor, dentist, training and event schedules, alongside rider support. Minimum Requirements Average hours are 3 – 5 hours a day, minimum of 2, but need to be flexible and event days will be longer hours.  There is an opportunity of additional work, alongside this role, in a large attached livery yard.  Self employment required. This is a lovely and cheerful environment, with lovely horses, who are very much cherished, excellent facilities and outstanding hacking.   Possibility of stabling your own horse on site. ***Start date is flexible – can start any time between now and June 2024, please contact and discuss***  
Job Description flat rider/groom for competition yard, mainly 4-7 year olds no breaking or backing young ones required Minimum Requirements must be able to ride confidently and have good flat work skills lunging and long reining   Accommodation details shared accommodation, ensuit private bedroom and bathrooms within the accomadion there is a new kitchen, laundry room, games rooms and gym   Benefits great fun team opportunity to flat ride at shows uk and internationally
Job Description We are looking for a capable yard manager who is also an experienced instructor with an interest in biomechanics to run the yard of 14 horses and teach lessons not only on actual horses but also on our eventing simulator. For the right candidate training and qualifications will be provided. The successful person must be organised, reliable and able to drive. We have a rider you will be working alongside and would be an advantage if you can drive a 3.5 ton or 7.5 ton horsebox. We have riding holidays, clinics and camps which you will get involved in with the other staff members. Minimum Requirements Coaching qualifications or experience   Accommodation details Sole accommodation if required   Benefits Fantastic facilities and location 80 acre cross country course Latest technology horse simulator – can jump a course of 1.20m sj and xc New big airy barn type stables Pension 28 days Holiday  
STABLE HAND/HOME GROOM VACATION COVER MAY 2024 EXPERIENCE IN HANDLING HORSES FROM 3 to 23 YRS (NO STALLIONS!) HORSE WALKER AND TURN OUT SERVICES MUCKING OUT FEEDING   Modern Appartment on premises with floor heating, rain shower, WIFI, TV
*Salary £35,000 PA depending on experience and qualifications.*5 day week *Horse welcomed *Discretionary, generous end of year bonus *Overtime available *Very interesting role We have placed several staff with these employers over the years and most are still in situ with the feedback in all respects extremely positive. ‘Lovely family, a great place to work, nice people, more than fair remuneration Exciting Role on a small yard of 10 rare breed/schoolmaster horses for a really lovely private HNW family. The family reside in the UK seasonally and now needs an accomplished, calm, confident, self-starter with a passion for high standards of horse care and VIP client interactions to join the team. The daily role is inclusive of completing all yard jobs to a high standard, and exercising the horses both under saddle and in the carriage (opportunity to learn to carriage drive if not currently in your skillset). The horses need to be kept in a manner that keeps the horses suitably trained for their intended purpose and with a high level of turnout and yard. In the season the role is similar to a competition groom role, exciting and dynamic with different requests to fulfil on the main premises inclusive of pony riding, carriage driving, trekking, photoshoots, events and more! The ideal candidate would possess their HGV licence, but at minimum, the candidate will need to be confident driving a 3.5t and towing with a manual car and trailer with a willingness to obtain a HGV with the employer’s sponsorship longer-term. The candidate will need to be flexible regarding hours during the “season” the family are in residence as some events run into the evenings, this time is well remunerated and those that go above and beyond to make the residency period run smoothly are well rewarded with a very generous discretionary bonus at the end of the season. Daily working location is based in Hook, Hampshire, main estate based near Windsor, during the “season” you will be required to work from either/both locations. Could be live-in or live-out position but a relocation package is offered whereby the employer provides allowance for accommodation for 4 months, (giving time to look for own accommodation in the area). Amazing private facilities with space for 20 horses but family have <10 : International sized arena, own gallops and show jumps. Great hacking. Call Caroline and The Grooms List team on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruiment.com
*5 day week * IRO £25K pa +/- plus accommodation neg. 🙂 This vacancy has arisen due to internal promotion. We have placed staff in these roles previously and the feedback is always excellent 🙂 This lovely employer is a semi-professional carriage driver and he and his wife have a strong equestrian background. Good horsemanship skills on the ground with yard & horse management skills being a priority for the role . Candidates should possess all the usual skills, including the ability to turn a horse out Riding optional – the horses are ridden by their owners (hacked and schooled to a good level under saddle). An interest in carriage driving experience is helpful but not essential and there is an opportunity to learn to drive if you might be interested.  Outings to competitions are shared between the yard manager and this position. You would mostly be travelling to outings in the UK. There are 7 horses which are Dutch harness horses 16HH-16.2HH (2x mares and 5 geldings), these are typically WB Dutch dressage type horses. The employer is constantly back and forth to the yard/abroad where he runs a thriving business but is looking to be permanently based in the UK permanently in 5/6 years’ time. Integrity, self-reliance initiative and self-starters are a must for this role. Small family estate. Indoor and outdoor ménages, good hacking. Great facilities -walker/washdown etc. No room for a horse but lots of good yards close by. Please call Caroline & the Team on 0203 006 5730 or email caroline@carolinecarterrecruitment.com
Job Description English family relocating from Scotland are looking for a live-in groom to start June 2024. This is a full-time position with the requirement to work ad hoc Saturdays or Sundays as needed. The applicant will be in sole-charge of two perfectly behaved cobs and three (pretty perfectly) behaved shetland ponies. The family are currently looking to acquire three further horses / ponies to add to their team. The private estate is a working farm with excellent equine facilities. There is an outdoor arena with show jumps, miles of off-road hacking and plans for an extensive cross country course. This is a very happy and family focussed home, with young children, dogs and other livestock. HGV 7.5 ton license preferable, but for the right candidate the family would sponsor the required training and qualifications. CVs and references will be required. Minimum Requirements All yard duties must be performed to a high standard. Applicant must be a sensitive and confident rider and happy to work through any schooling or behavioural issues. Due to the size of the horses, the family require a lightweight groom, ideally one who is able to exercise and school small stocky ponies. Candidate must be energetic, a team player, with good social skills and the ability to work harmoniously alongside other staff. The family are also looking for a positive, happy groom who would also really enjoy riding with (and teaching where needed) the younger members of the family. A DBS certificate will be required. Accommodation details Idyllic one-bedroom flat adjoined to the main house, overlooking the farm and parkland. This flat is in excellent condition and there is a strong expectation that this standard of accommodation will be maintained by the successful applicant. – Council tax paid for – Water and heating paid for (T&Cs apply) – All other utilities to be covered by the applicant Benefits For the right candidate, this position offers: – The opportunity to bring with them their own horse – The opportunity to bring with them a maximum of two well behaved small pets (indoor cats only) – The opportunity to use the family horse box for personal use (when not in use by the family) Pension as standard  
We are now looking for an experienced competent rider to join our team. 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. 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. We need a competent rider to join the team. Most importantly to work with our 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 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. Accommodation details – Live in is available for one and own horse considered.  
*Salary of £22,360 -£25K pa neg. depending on experience plus beautiful Cotswold stone cottage accommodation (without charges). *Fab career/CV opportunity *Single accommodation *World-class establishment *Well behaved dog considered Groom with some performance horse experience required to work within an established and highly motivated team to a very high standard in an international dressage yard. Competent Grooms from any discipline considered. You must be a team player and as this is a non-riding position (some hacking, maybe,  if you are a particularly balanced and capable rider). It would suit someone who enjoys the Dressage environment and who wants to work with the best team of people & horses in the best of facilities at home. This is a great training ground for those established in their career or ambitious individuals wanting to build a career towards yard management and /or competition grooming in the future. Please call Caroline & Team on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com
​*Stunning Cotswold location *IRO £400-£450 +accomm and no bills *5 day week * dog considered* Our client events her horses at all levels (BE90 – 4*)and has some fabulous advanced horses as well as some “up and coming” youngsters. This role is suitable for an experienced Groom who enjoys the competitive environment but is also happy when mostly home grooming. Relevant experience ideal including yard/stable/performance horse management. Youngstock experience a bonus as a few young horses brought in from time to time to bring on. Must be able to turn out to a good basic level. Must be passionate about horses and their care. … Please call Caroline & the Team  on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com  
CONFIDENTIALITY ASSURED *Salary IRO £40k totally negotiable depending on experience plus accommodation *Sponsorship available to suitably qualified non UK citizens *Partner, own horse and pets welcomed (but this is a role with lots of travelling home and internationally) Show Jumping Competition Groom required for a vacancy with a very ambitious and competitive family. Must be an experienced Show Groom in the UK and Internationally with an established referenceable record. Rider is a bonus but certainly not essential. Experienced driving  26t+ lorries and ideally articulated is key. 18 quality jumping horses and homebred/other young stock destined for a career in SJ/jumping all kept in top accommodation to the highest standards. Nice, flexible  accommodation Great team environment with a young, energetic, motivated and progressive team. Top-class facilities Fairly flexible on the number of days worked, can work around anything between 5 and 6 but obviously will be straight through when away at shows You will be well looked after and treated as the professional you have worked hard to become in this very inclusive environment. Must have experience with handling stallions. Please call Caroline & the Team on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com  
If you have an EU or German passport or the necessary immigration status plus an adventurous spirit and would like to turbocharge your CV – we would like you to get in touch soonest *Salary £2047.71 per month/£24,572.52 pa annum/£472.54 pw (Euros equivalent) *Food/accommodation and utilities small charge *Must have an EU or German passport *Dog considered *Short-term contract positions (6-9 months available), as well as long-term jobs, are available *This employer is happy to consider junior and senior, experienced or less experienced This is a unique opportunity to work in a world-class performance horse yard/ auction site/ sales/youngstock /sales and competition yards and on the same employer’s Stud & AI laboratory (during the Stud season) . The Stud role during the season has 2 key elements:  to look after broodmares and their foals. You would also be involved in vet checks and insemination, youngstock handling, stable management, feeding, health care, farrier, etc Grooms/Stud staff interested in working in their world-leading AI laboratory This position requires someone super meticulous and organised to fill and pack the orders for mares to be put in foal to their world-class stallions via AI  you don´t need any horse or lab experience at all. Enthusiasm and dedication to work alongside the best horses, riders, and horse people. This opportunity would be GREAT FUN and a second-to-none experience which would enhance your career anywhere you choose at home and abroad. Outside of the season you may well work with young horses/competition horses/auction bound horses etc etc whatever you r preference vs the yards requirements at the time. All up for discussion. This really does offer a rare insight into world-class horses, world-class facilities, and a truly remarkable experience for any Groom or Stud Person seriously interested in getting to the top of their game. There are also considerable opportunities for advancement and promotion possibilities if you wish to remain in Germany. Please note: Medical aid – by law both employer and employee have to pay 50% Statutory sick pay – the employer pays for the first 6 weeks of medical insurance,  after the 6 weeks they pay around 60-70% 3 meals per day will be provided when working on site, (one of which is a warm cooked meal), and the employee pays 163€ per month contribution All employment/immigration /legal administration – The employer will assist with this but there will be a joint responsibility between the employee and Employer. The agency, Caroline carter Recruitment Ltd. in its capacity as an introductory and not an employment agency,  does not get involved with this apart from in terms of communication between employee and employer if requested in writing/email by the employee or employer Covid-19  – The employee must have had the 1st and 2nd doses but it is not mandatory to have had the booster.  This will be at the employee’s discretion but the employer retains the right to restrict duties without it.   Please call Caroline & the Team on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com
Add considerable experience to your CV – why not consider as a short-term contract position (6-9 months available) as well as long-term jobs. If you have an EU or German passport, an adventurous spirit and would like to show what you are capable of or add to your CV, then this could be for you! *Salary £2047.71 per month/£24,572.52 pa annum/£472.54 pw (Euros equivalent) *Food/accommodation and utilities small charge * Must have an EU or German passport *Dog considered. One of the most professional performance horse yards in the world is looking to add to its team with two key Stud Roles to look after broodmares and their foals. You would also be involved in vet checks and inseminations, youngstock handling, stable management, feeding, health care, farrier, etc Grooms/Stud staff interested in working in their world-leading AI laboratory This position requires someone super meticulous and organised to fill and pack the orders for mares to be put in foal to their world-class stallions via AI  you don´t need any horse or lab experience at all. This employer is happy to consider junior and senior, experienced or less experienced. Enthusiasm and dedication to work alongside the best horses, riders, and horsepeople. This opportunity would be GREAT FUN and a second-to-none experience which would enhance your career anywhere you chose in the future both at home and abroad. A rare insight into world-class horses, world-class facilities, and a truly remarkable experience for any Groom or Stud Person seriously interested in getting to the top of their game. There are also considerable opportunities for advancement and promotion possibilities if you wish to remain in Germany. Please note: Medical aid – by law both employer and employee have to pay 50% Statutory sick pay – the employer pays for the first 6 weeks of medical insurance,  after the 6 weeks they pay around 60-70% 3 meals per day will be provided when working on site, (one of which is a warm cooked meal), the employee pays 163€ per month contribution All employment/immigration /legal administration – The employer will assist with this but there will be a joint responsibility between the employee and Employer. The agency, Caroline carter Recruitment Ltd. in its capacity as an introductory and not an employment agency,  does not get involved with this apart from in terms of communication between employee and employer if requested in writing/email by the employee or employer Covid-19  – The employee must have had the 1st and 2nd doses but it is not mandatory to have had the booster.  This will be at the employee’s discretion but the employer retains the right to restrict duties without it.   Please call Caroline on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com

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Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd
The Stables
Fildyke Road
Meppershall
Bedfordshire
SG17 5LU

info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com
0203 006 5730 / 07747 686 118

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