Experience with Horses

**Most recently Groom/Rider as part of an Equine Yard Placement from Moulton college Northampton 2023 – 2025**

Growing up around horses from a young age has given me a deep-rooted understanding of equine behaviour, care, and responsibility. My early exposure to horses has shaped my passion for the industry and laid a strong foundation for my formal education and professional development.

 

Early Involvement

• Raised in an equestrian environment, I began helping with horses from a young age, assisting with daily tasks such as feeding, mucking out, grooming, and general stable duties
• Gained hands-on experience with a variety of horses including ponies, veterans, and young horses
• Grew up riding regularly, developing confidence in the saddle and learning to adapt to different horse types and temperaments
• Learned the importance of consistency, patience, and observation when working with horses of all ages

 

Horse Care and Handling

• Confident and competent in all aspects of daily horse care, including feeding routines, checking for injuries or illness, applying basic first aid, and maintaining high standards of yard hygiene
• Experienced in handling a range of horses including youngsters, sharp horses, and horses on restricted exercise
• Familiar with grooming for everyday care as well as show preparation, including plaiting and trimming

 

Riding Experience

• From a young age, I have ridden a variety of horses and ponies for schooling, hacking, and general exercise
• Confident riding in walk, trot, and canter both in the arena and out hacking; experience riding on the flat and over poles/jumps
• Comfortable working with green horses and understanding how to ride sympathetically, calmly, and effectively

 

Health & Welfare

• Developed an instinctive understanding of horse behaviour and early signs of discomfort or illness through years of hands-on experience
• Confident assisting with veterinary visits, farrier appointments, and day-to-day care routines including wound care, feeding adjustments, and rehab support
• Understand the importance of routine, consistency, and good yard management to maintain horse welfare

 

Work Ethic and Practical Knowledge

• Growing up on a yard instilled a strong work ethic, resilience, and the ability to work hard in all weather conditions
• Comfortable working independently as well as taking instruction from senior staff
• Passionate about continuing to learn and improve both my riding and practical horse care skills in a professional setting

 

 

 

Key Skills

• Confident rider in walk, trot, canter, and jumping
• Skilled in day-to-day horse care: mucking out, grooming, feeding, rugging, and turning out
•  Experience with a variety of horses including fit competition horses, youngsters, and ponies
•  Knowledge of equine anatomy, nutrition, and common illnesses/injuries
• Tack cleaning, fitting, and basic maintenance
• Lunging and groundwork experience
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong time management and attention to detail
• Good communication skills with clients, staff, and supervisors

 

 

Strengths and Weaknesses

• What do you most enjoy about working with horses?

What I enjoy most about working with horses is the bond and trust that develops through consistent care, patience, and time. Horses are incredibly intelligent and sensitive animals, and being able to understand their behaviour, respond to their needs, and build a relationship with each one is deeply rewarding.

I love the structure and variety of working on a yard—no two days are ever exactly the same. Whether it’s early mornings feeding and mucking out, grooming for a show, or exercising a horse in the arena or out hacking, I find real satisfaction in working hard and seeing the positive results in the horses’ wellbeing and performance.

Riding is also a huge passion of mine—I enjoy the challenge of improving both my own skills and helping bring out the best in each horse I ride. I find it incredibly rewarding to work with different types of horses, especially the ones that require a bit more patience or confidence.

Above all, I enjoy being part of a professional team that puts horse welfare first, where I can keep learning, developing, and contributing to the care and progress of the horses.

 

• Is there anything you’d like to improve?

While I’ve built a strong foundation in horse care and riding through both formal training and hands-on experience, I’m always looking to improve and develop further. One area I’d like to continue working on is my riding technique, particularly in jumping and schooling more advanced horses. I’m confident with flatwork and basic jumping, but I’d love more opportunities to ride a wider range of horses and gain experience in more technical work, such as gridwork, lateral movements, or competition prep.

I’d also like to grow my knowledge in areas like horse rehabilitation, injury prevention, and fitness programs, so I can contribute even more to the overall wellbeing and performance of the horses I work with.

Finally, I’m always keen to improve my confidence in leadership and instruction, whether that’s supporting less experienced team members or communicating effectively with clients.

I believe that working on a professional yard with experienced staff will give me the chance to keep learning and refining these areas.

 

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

Employers should consider me because I bring a unique mix of hands-on experience, formal qualifications, and genuine passion for horse care and riding. Having grown up around horses and recently completed a Level 3 Diploma in Equine Management (Equitation) with Merit-Merit-Distinction, I’ve developed a strong understanding of both the practical and theoretical sides of the job. I’m also a BHS Stage 2 qualified, which shows my commitment to professional standards.

What sets me apart is my work ethic and reliability—I’m not afraid of early starts, hard work, or getting stuck in whatever the weather. I take pride in doing the job properly, whether that’s mucking out, grooming to a high standard, or riding thoughtfully. I care deeply about the horses I work with, and I’m always looking to improve my skills to better support their welfare and performance.

I’m also a team player who listens, learns quickly, and takes responsibility. I don’t cut corners, I ask questions when needed, and I stay calm and focused under pressure. I believe my positive attitude, willingness to learn, and solid foundation make me a valuable addition to any professional yard.

 

Requirements

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

In my next job, I’d like to continue developing both my riding and horse care skills in a professional environment where high standards are expected. I’m particularly keen to gain more experience riding a variety of horses, including fit or competition horses, to build my confidence and improve my technique — especially in jumping, flatwork schooling, and possibly preparing horses for shows or events.

I’d also like to learn more about yard management and horse rehabilitation, including how to support horses coming back from injury or being brought into work. Being around experienced professionals would give me the chance to pick up valuable knowledge and refine my approach to horse care and decision-making.

Ultimately, I’m looking for a role where I can be part of a hardworking, supportive team, contribute positively to the yard, and continue progressing towards further BHS qualifications or career goals like working on a competition yard, becoming a head groom, or even instructing in the future.

 

• Do you need accommodation?

I’m open to accommodation if it’s available, especially if the yard is in a rural or hard-to-reach location. However, I’m also happy to commute if it’s within a reasonable distance.

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

No

 

• Do you have any ongoing commitments?

No, I don’t have any ongoing commitments at the moment. I’m fully available to take on a new position and can be flexible with working hours, including weekends and holiday cover if needed.

 

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

Yes, I have a holiday booked from [13th November – 24th November ], which was arranged in advance. I’m happy to work around this and give plenty of notice to ensure cover if needed. Aside from that, I’m fully available.