Future Requirements

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

I would like to gain hands-on experience working with horses in a professional yard environment. Having ridden since I was 8, I’m keen to develop my practical skills further, including horse care, stable management, and riding a variety of horses. I’m also looking to build my confidence, work ethic, and understanding of the day-to-day running of a yard, as I am very interested in developing my equine skills.

• Do you need accommodation?

Yes, I would require accommodation for the duration of the role. I am happy to be flexible and respectful of any arrangements provided.

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

No, I do not have any animals that I would need to bring with me.

• Do you have any ongoing commitments?

No, I do not have any ongoing commitments that would interfere with my availability. I am fully committed to the role and understand the importance of reliability, especially when working with animals.

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

No, I do not currently have any holidays booked and I am fully available for the duration of my gap year (September 2026 – June 2027)

Experience with Horses

Outline your experience with horses here/the scope of your freelance services. If you’re looking for a non-equine or non- yard-based job please use this space to describe your experience skills/abilities and adapt the questions to suit your line of work.

I have been riding horses since the age of 8 and have developed a strong foundation in riding, including taking part in showjumping competitions. This has helped me build confidence, balance, and control, as well as an understanding of working with horses in more pressured environments.

Through my riding experience, I am confident with handling, grooming, and tacking up horses, and I am comfortable around a variety of temperaments. I have a good understanding of horse behaviour and the importance of patience, consistency, and clear communication.

While I have had less experience with full yard duties such as mucking out, I am very willing to learn and take on all aspects of yard work. I am hardworking, practical, and understand that maintaining a clean and organised yard is essential for horse welfare.

I am particularly keen to expand my skills by gaining hands-on experience in a professional yard environment, working with a range of horses and developing both my riding and stable management abilities.

I would describe myself as reliable, enthusiastic, and genuinely passionate about horses, and I am committed to learning quickly and contributing positively to the team.

 

Key Skills

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

I am particularly strong at working both independently and as part of a team. I am reliable and able to take initiative when working alone, while also communicating well and contributing positively in a team environment.

Through my riding and showjumping experience, I have developed good balance, control, and confidence when riding, as well as the ability to stay calm under pressure. I am confident handling and tacking up horses, and I have a good understanding of horse behaviour and how to work safely around them.

I take pride in being organised and attentive to detail, which I apply when preparing horses and equipment. I am also physically fit, hardworking, and willing to take on all tasks required on a yard.

In addition, I am a quick learner and very open to developing new skills such as plaiting, clipping, and full yard duties. I am committed to improving and making myself as useful as possible in a working yard environment.

 

Strengths and Weaknesses

• What do you most enjoy about working with horses?

What I enjoy most about working with horses is building a relationship with them and seeing progress over time. I find it really rewarding gaining a horse’s trust and improving together through riding. I also enjoy the variety that comes with working with horses, as every day is different and each horse has its own personality. Being around horses is something I’ve always been passionate about, and I find the work both motivating and fulfilling.

• Is there anything you’d like to improve?

I would like to improve both my riding and my experience with full yard duties. While I have a strong riding background, including showjumping, I am keen to continue developing my riding further by working with a variety of horses and learning from more experienced riders.

At the same time, I would like to become more confident and experienced in all aspects of yard work, such as mucking out and the day-to-day running of a professional yard. I am very willing to learn, take on feedback, and work hard to become a more well-rounded and capable member of the team.

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

Employers should consider me because I bring a strong combination of experience, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn. Having ridden since a young age and competed in showjumping, I am confident and capable around horses, particularly when riding. At the same time, I am hardworking, reliable, and not afraid of physical work or early mornings. I am eager to develop my skills further and would be fully committed to the role, making me a positive and dedicated addition to any yard.