Keep Warm Working With Horses In Winter

Keep Warm Working with Horses in Winter

by Becky Parker

It’s not easy to keep warm working with horses; there is definitely an art to not getting frozen toes, chilblains and a weather-beaten face by age 30 when you work in the equine industry. Fellow blogger Kelly Wallace Horne has already discussed a basic guide to rugging horses, but what about ourselves? Wrapping up properly and staying dry (ish) can make the difference between a truly miserable winter and a busy one enjoying crisp winter mornings and long days out galloping around the countryside following the hunt. The trick lies in not just one method but successfully taking care of all the details. Let’s apply the same level of thorough, exemplary care we give to the horses, to ourselves. Certainly many a good groom’s downfall but hey, we can make sure you at least know what you should be doing!

Rugging Yourself Up

Layers

Many thin layers are most effective in keeping you cosy by trapping pockets of warm air between the fabric. They are also easier to slip on and off when going in and out of the sheltered barn or schooling horses. It is important to try not to allow yourself to overheat and sweat as you will quickly become cold in damp clothes once you stop.

Merino wool, synthetic or bamboo base layers are widely considered the best in all outdoor sports. While they are undeniably pricier than cotton clothing they are proven to be much better at retaining heat and wicking moisture away from the body. Cotton absorbs moisture and takes a long time to dry, therefore it is not an ideal layer worn next to the skin.

For some reason, while we are quick to shove extra layers on the torso and cover our hands and feet, we often neglect the legs. Thermal insulated leggings, Long Johns and/or full-length chaps can be a lifesaver if you suffer from chill blains, which are most commonly found on the thighs. When out hacking a long, knee-length waterproof coat can help keep the legs dry. My personal favourite is to get under the horse’s exercise rug with them, that way you benefit from their body heat too!

Mountain Warehouse currently have a great sale on Merino Baselayers.

Gloves

Which brand and thickness of glove you go for is down to personal preference. A popular method is to keep a thicker hard wearing pair for all yard work and a separate thin glove for riding. It goes without saying that in an outdoor job where there will be regular contact with water buckets, drinkers and sweaty horses having both pairs waterproof is a necessity. For those who really suffer in the cold, you can buy silk or merino liners for extra toasty hands. Sealskinz gloves are particularly good on the waterproof front, whilst Ariat is probably the most popular brand of riding glove.

Footwear

According to outdoor survival experts, the best way of keeping feet warm is to wear a thin silk or polypropylene layer followed by a tightly woven thicker wool sock. Neoprene lined wellies are without doubt much warmer than their cheaper, purely rubber counterparts. However, if you are unlucky enough to own a pair of these leaky failures I can recommend the ‘foot in a plastic bag’ technique as a temporary fix. The true difficulty lies in keeping warm toes whilst out riding. Buying boots that allow a little extra room to wiggle the toes maintaining circulation will help with this. I recently saw a great hack on a popular cycling website suggesting wearing one thin layer of good quality socks then wrapping your foot in aluminium foil before putting your shoe/boot on. They likened this to the ‘Jacket potato’ effect. Whilst I can’t claim to have tested this method it sounds worth a try to me.

When we put this question to our Facebook community Bev Frampton reminded us that Sealskinz also make ‘miracle’ socks that keep your toes dry and toasty. Here is a link to their whole range of equestrian products. Philippa Delahaye recommended wearing a thin pair of tights over the top of your socks while Ashton LeClair suggested using heated socks.

Headwear

The age-old belief that a person loses up to 70% of their body heat through the head has now been scientifically proven wrong. That said, this doesn’t mean a cosy beanie can’t do wonders for your comfort levels on a chilly day. I personally hate removing my hat after riding and not immediately replacing it with a woolly one! As another option Headbands are a great way of keeping warm ears but still allowing some heat to escape. I am a huge lover of snoods rather than scarves. I find them to be much more practical as they are neater, less bulky and great for pulling right up to your eyes on a truly vile day out hacking. They also easily double up as a hat, headband or sweatband for your wrist. Buff has a wide range of good quality snoods with some great colour and pattern options. Most popular with the racing crowd for bracing early mornings whizzing up the gallops are fleece lined ear muffs that attach to your riding helmet securely without affecting the fit.

Keeping Yourself Fed and Watered

During cold weather, the body has to work much harder to maintain a comfortable core temperature. Shivering is proven to double and sometimes even triple the metabolic output. A body that is given an insufficient calorie intake for the work will function less efficiently. The immune system will be weakened and we will struggle with a lack of energy feeling sluggish, moving slower and not keeping ourselves warm through movement.

It is a little-known fact that we also need to drink more in cold weather. Breathing in cold air causes water loss through the need to warm and humidify the air as it comes in, which is then immediately lost as we breathe out. The wearing of such bulky clothing also ends up causing us to sweat when working hard if we don’t manage our temperature properly.

There is little evidence to prove that drinking hot drinks actually warms you up physically. The fact we feel a benefit has been put down to the placebo effect – I am drinking something warm, therefore I am warmer. Nonetheless, if you find it helps, it’s still worth doing.

Tricks and Tips

A few extra bonus tips……

Chemical hand and foot warmers are a great buy for shoving down wellies and gloves on really chilly days. They may only work for a short amount of time but they help get you out the door until your warmed up from working.
Pre-warming clothes on a radiator in the morning while you eat breakfast makes for a small little win before you get started. Also remember to put damp hats, gloves and outer layers over a radiator while you stop for lunch to get the chill out of them.
Damp and cold weather is murder for chapped hands. This is an extra important time of year to remember to moisturise regularly. Hard hands may be a necessity but cracked hands are a step too far!
Similarly, dry and chapped lips from the freezing wind is another perk of the job. I can highly recommend Carmex as a particularly good lip balm. After the initial sting it almost feels like its warming your lips!

At the risk of sounding too ‘preachy’ your own health really should be of paramount importance. It might feel like you’re being a better worker battling on when you’re freezing, just finishing this one last thing but it’s not ‘being tough’ it’s being silly. If you’re cold, stop and grab an extra layer, if you’re soaked after a soggy ride or bathing a horse, go get changed. Invest in good waterproofs and decent hole free footwear, prioritise your health and if you really can’t afford it speak to your boss about it, maybe they can help. A sick and miserable groom is no good to anybody, not the horses, not their fellow workers, not the boss. So, take care of yourself and there is plenty about winter that can be enjoyed. We choose to work outdoors because we see that, get wise, wrap up and you will find yourself able to enjoy the beauty of outdoors all the more.

Life as an Equine Groom Tack and Equipment

Top Jobs!

JL103889 We are growing! Join us in a Home Groom Position | Olympic Eventing Yard | Based in Leicestershire

Hoy Enterprises Ltd

Live in Live out Leicestershire, UK

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

JL133763 Tyne & Wear, Houghton le Spring – Lead Coach for our BHS CLTH Programme, LIVE OUT

Penshaw Equestrian Centre Ltd

Live out Durham, UK

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.

JL133925 Cheshire – Live in Stud Groom required for friendly, professional family run Stud (Pre-Training, Racing flat & NH.)

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live in Cheshire, UK

*£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

JL133904 Oxfordshire – Full Time Home Grooming Position, Dressage

Obstgarten Horses

Live in Live out Oxfordshire, UK

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)

JL132522 Berkshire – Head Groom/working couple for Dressage Livery Yard

Fairoak Grange EC

Live in Berkshire, UK

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.

JL133823 Surrey, Cranleigh – Full Time Groom/Rider (optional), LIVE OUT

Cranleigh School

Live out Surrey, UK

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.

JL133682 Hampshire – Equine Technician required, part time or full time

Sparsholt College Hampshire

Live in Hampshire, UK

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.

JL133669 Somerset, Street – Live Out Equestrian Coach (Maternity Cover)

Millfield School

Live out Somerset, 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**

JL131522 Cambridgeshire/Hertfordshire borders – Show Groom Position at a private Show Jumping Yard

New Blue Stables

Live in Cambridgeshire, UK

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.

JL132800 Essex – Competition/Show Groom Opportunity- Show Jumping.

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live in Live out Essex, UK

*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

JL129460 Peebleshire, West Linton – Live Out Groom/Rider (optional) on private yard

TOWNFOOT

Live out Lanarkshire

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.

JL108547 Hampshire – Full Time Live-in Head Groom/Rider (optional) for family-run Livery Yard

Headley Stud

Live in Hampshire, UK

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

JL79595 West Wales – Groom/Rider vacancy at Competition Stud

Bryngwyn Stud Farm – Penuwch West Wales

Live in Live out Wales, UK

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.

JL132625 Wales, Powys – Yard Work/ Gardening/ Maintenance Person required

Family hunting yard Shropshire/Powys border

Live in Wales, UK

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

JL117562 Switzerland – Experienced Home and Show Groom

Optimum Horses

Live in Switzerland

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

JL132565 Wiltshire – Yard Manager/Head Groom/Rider (optional)- International Dressage Yard

Lewis Carrier Dressage

Live in Live out Wiltshire, UK

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.

JL132529 Surrey – Groom/Rider (Seasonal)

UK Mission Enterprise LTD

Live in Live out Surrey, UK

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

JL132531 Surrey – Groom/Rider (Permanent)

UK Mission Enterprise LTD

Live in Live out Surrey, UK

JL132482 Northamptonshire, Bozeat – Live Out Experienced Yard Manager Required

MA Equestrian Riding School & Livery Yard

Live out Northamptonshire, UK

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

JL102498 Surrey, nr Chertsey – Live in/ live out Grooms required for VIP private estate

UK Mission Enterprise LTD

Live in Live out Surrey, UK

Job Description Daily stable duties – grooming, feeding and handling to a high standard of turnout Lead horses to their stables, and to the field, must be confident in dealing with fit excitable horses Check horses for common injuries, ailments and infections Mucking out to ensure the stables are clean and maintained Daily exercising of the horses Confident handling of stallions on the yard as well as riding Assisting the children with riding activities Minimum Requirements BHS Level 1 Accommodation details Live in accommodation available or live out