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So, you want to become a professional rider?

So, you want to become a professional rider?

by Becky Parker

Become a Professional Rider - successTo become a professional rider, charging around Badminton, sailing over the impossibly high Puissance wall at Olympia or dancing majestically across the Dressage arena in ‘s-Hertogenbosch is the sole dream of any pony mad child. I don’t think I will be alone in fondly remembering riding my imaginary horse around a course of sticks on upturned buckets in the garden, commentating on my own prowess as a child. It is a grand, lofty ambition that, while by no means impossible, alas will in all reality remain a just a dream for most of us. Luckily, there are more ways to be a full time paid ‘Rider’ than just 4* success.

Behind the scenes of almost every top horse, there is a string of people that helped to get there. The home groom/rider who keeps the horses ticking over when the rider is off at International Events, the young horse producer (independently, at home or at a stud), and not forgetting the ever dynamic dealing yard rider. For every top-level rider, there are so many more riders chipping away at the lower levels, often satisfied at that! They might never get that lucky break with a top horse but will still get enormous job satisfaction and make a respectable living running their own yards as competition riders. This is still ‘Living the Dream’ in many instances.

Become a Professional Rider - living the dream

Achievable though these positions may be, an easy path it is not. To gain even the bottom tier of the ‘professional rider’ ladder requires no small amount of hard work, sacrifice, determination, a degree of luck and well yes, bluntly… talent! It is SUCH a competitive marketplace and requires a big leap of faith for any owner/employer to entrust their prized animals into your care as a relatively unknown person. Whether it is to start them out on their ridden path or to fulfil the superstar career they believe their horses are capable of, most owners will have invested financially and/or emotionally in these horses. In order to stand out from the crowd and gain that opportunity to prove yourself, you need to be able to WOW the people that count. For most, your career will at least begin under an employer who deals with the owners and it is them you initially need to win round. Here are the top 5 things we find employers are looking for in a professional rider.

 

5 Traits a Professional Rider must have

 

Become a Professional Rider - experience

1. Experience

IF you are applying for a competition rider role you will need to have a competition record in this discipline and current affiliation to the relevant society. Any professional rider will need to have several years’ experience riding a variety of breeds/ages/sex. Being able to jump your one horse you have produced over 4 years round a 1.3m course is one thing,  but you will soon find getting on a fresh, hot-headed warm blood and jumping around even just a 1.0m course when it’s only the 2nd time you’ve sat on him (if you’re lucky,) is a whole other ball game! In some cases, such as if you are applying to be a rider for an Arabian stud for example, experience of that specific breed and it’s all its quirks would be necessary.

 

2. Professionalism

As a professional rider, you will have a great responsibility to show a mature, respectable and professional persona when out and about. The way you dress, communicate with showground staff and your grooms, the way you ride and treat your horses will all reflect, either good or bad, on the yard you represent so be mindful, you are always in the public eye. You will frequently need to liaise with owners, either for yourself or on behalf of an employer, so giving a good impression is vital. If you are able to turn on a degree of charm, this will always help!

 

3. Bravery

When you are starting out you will sometimes find yourself as either the sole rider or the junior rider. In either position you will almost certainly be the “dummy jockey”, as some refer to – the one lumbered with the ‘quirky’ rides. Needless to say, unless it is literally doing back-flips, saying ‘No’ to riding this horse can negatively impact the view your employers may have of you. As a rider, you are expected to be brave. If you genuinely are the competent, experienced rider you have sold yourself as you should have the ability and knowledge to deal in the right way and safely with said horse and the belief in yourself to do so. Be brutally honest with yourself about the context of your riding experience and ability. A rider needs to be truly confident in their ability and themselves not just talk the talk like they are!

Disclaimer – While this point about being brave enough to do your job stands, there does come a point when bravery crosses over into foolishness. If you truly believe you would be putting yourself in danger by getting on talk to your employer to see if a reasonable solution can be found to make the horse more manageable. Honesty is always the best policy, whatever your reason. 

4. Good health and fitness

Riding all day every day (quite probably between yard chores too!) is an extremely physically demanding job. Before even applying for any such job, ensure your health in terms of recurring injuries, ongoing conditions, back problems are all dealt with. You will also need to ensure you are physically fit for the job. It’s no good blowing everyone away with your enthusiasm on day one if you’re are crawling up the yard by lunchtime on day 3!

Equally, when you are in situ, though you are likely to stay fit for the job through doing the job, in order to perform your best be aware of any weaknesses you have such as straightness, tight hips or a feeble left arm/leg and put in place measures such as stretching/yoga/pilates/strength training if you want to stay on top of your game. Don’t give anyone reason to doubt your ability and toughness when it’s something you can be pro-active about.

As a continuation of Point 3 – As a professional rider, your risk of injury is increased and if the worst should happen you really will be unable to work. Even if you are employed full time on the books, I would strongly recommend taking out your own health insurance policy.

 

5. Proof

Being the one that’ll “get on anything” at your local livery yard rarely equates to the knowledge, ability and experience required of a professional rider. Videos are an integral part of any rider’s Jobseekers Profile and CV. You need to prove you can do what you say! Preferably not just on one horse and the better variety of age and type of horses you can show evidence of yourself schooling/jumping the better.

Become a Professional Rider - a proven track record

Think of what the job will require you to do and ‘show’ instead of ‘tell’ potential employers why you are the best person for the job. It goes without saying that you should be wearing professional attire in said videos e.g. hat and gloves at the minimum – jeans and wellies are a big NO NO! References from instructors and clients whose horses you have produced/schooled/competed are also a really strong plus. Maximise any contacts you have that may have backed you in the past through giving you rides, lessons or sponsorship.

 

The professional riders most likely to succeed are those who approach this plainly difficult career path with the right attitude. There is such a world of difference between being the brave kid who gets on all the naughty ponies and producing young sports horses in a world-famous yard such as several of our employers, home and abroad.

Approaching your ambitions with a realistic idea of your own ability and your eyes wide open to the challenges you are likely to face will go a long way towards getting that first foot in the door and impressing future employers. Here are a few of the not so glamorous points the young aspiring rider should bear in mind…

 

6 Real-life professional rider realities to come to terms with

 

Become a Professional Rider - you haven't escaped yard duties yet!

1. You haven’t escaped yard work yet!

I hate to break it to you, but the chances are high that you will still have to – shock horror – shovel poo! You’re HIGHLY unlikely to simply walk into a job solely as a rider, at ANY point in your equestrian career. We all know more than one very successful professional rider who still spends an hour or two in the morning on the end of a pitchfork. Think of it as a good upper body work out to warm up, or a right of passage if that appeals more!

 

 

2. You will have to ride breakers and yaks

Or a more sympathetic phrasing could be producing youngsters and re-schooling problem horses. Whether setting up on your own or as a 2nd rider, to begin with, you will start out with the dribs and drabs no one else wants. Jobs on breaking yards are also typically more easy to come by as it takes a certain kind, or brave and determined individual to stick at it. That said few jobs will teach you more, and quicker than working at a breaking and schooling yard! When poor riding has consequences you soon learn to iron out those issues quick-sharp. This is the No 1 way to learn to sit up and put your heels down.

 

3. Learn that money isn’t everything

While wages in the horse world are slowly improving (and The Grooms List by Caroline Carter Recruitment are all over that), when you first start out riding as part of your job it, will more than likely be in a Junior or Apprentice position where training and/or course fees will be factored in to what you have left to live on. If you are serious about making this work it can be a sacrifice worth making. A good start in this career particularly if it’s with a well-known name/stud can pay dividends in the long run. We have several articles that can help you with this –

Here is an article that will help you to ensure you are receiving a legal wage – The National Minimum wage and National Living Wage

Here is an article that will help you to ensure you end up with a deal both you and your employer are happy with for the long term How to negotiate a Salary in the Equine Industry

 

4. There will be pressure on you to perform

Every professional yard has a purpose. When it all comes down to it you as the rider will be the one held most to account for achieving that purpose. Whether that be to win classes, sell horses, produce mannerly safe youngsters, fix a horse’s behavioural issues or simply to spot when and where once has gone wrong – physically or mentally. As a competition ride, in particular, you face extra pressure frequently being required to remember numerous courses and/or tests in a day for your multiple rides and perform at YOUR best in each. If or when it goes wrong answers will be demanded and not all bosses are as understanding as others of human error! (or even able to recognise horses aren’t all robotic angels!)

 

5. Take on board constructive criticism

There is no greater tool in a riders work kit than a strong desire to always keep learning. Never think you know it all. Respect your employer’s opinion and likely far greater experience than your own. Develop a strong relationship with your employer AND your trainer, show keen, ask questions and take it on the chin when you have messed up, and learn from it.

Become a Professional Rider - take criticism and instruction

A good employer might have the odd hissy fit but they do (when they have calmed down) understand no one is perfect. Suck it up and move on to the next horse with a fresh start and a clean slate. Always remember that no two horses are the same and some you will find easier and/or more enjoyable than others, but your job is to get a good tune from all of them. Ask for help and know you will likely learn more from the harder ones you struggle with, so embrace that challenge with a positive attitude. As any rider worth their salt knows, horses will always be your greatest tutors.

 

6. Don’t expect loyalty

It happens to every professional rider and not just once, over and over again – even the biggest names have had their fair share of it! Just as you see the dizzy heights of your career within gasping distance – POOF! All gone in a puff of smoke as you watch another rider take the horse you’ve produced thus far into the arena. This is EXTREMELY common, and can be for a variety of reasons, many of them often fair enough:

  • you have produced the horse to a monetary value that entices the owner to sell your mount
  • another rider whom the owner believes is “a safer bet” than you to train/compete at a higher level
  • even that the owner decides the horse is trained well enough that they want to compete their horse themselves

Whilst riding may have started out as a hobby, you are in a professional industry now and, as with most industries, it can be cut-throat. You just have to shrug it off and look to your next project, as devastating as it may be to miss out, again and again… and again… And no matter how attached you get to the horses that you work with. There are some well documented heartbreaking stories, but this is the real world and, like it or not, £££ plays a real part in decisions that are made on a very regular basis.

 

How to become a professional rider

There are only a few options open to the aspiring rider. The first, of course, is to simply get a “lucky break” (The Grooms List by Caroline Carter Recruitment have several jobs that fit that criteria most of the time!) through family backing, sponsorship or word of mouth. If that opportunity is given to you – good on you, grab it with both hands and we wish you all the best of luck – The Grooms List by Caroline Carter Recruitment can even make it happen for you! For everybody else the options are….

  • Become a Professional Rider - take criticism and instructionApprenticeship roles will provide formal structured training, a set wage, hours and days off. We explain more about the options available in our Apprentice Zone.
  • The BHS Pathway now offers a Riding only option from Stage 3 onwards which would give you Industry recognised proof of your level as a rider. Here is a useful article with further info on BHS Qualifications
  • Junior/2nd Rider/Home Rider there can be multiple names for this type of role but here you will work under a main rider usually with their direction helping to exercise all the horses, covering when they are away competing and perhaps competing some of the younger or lower level horses. This is a great way to gain practical experience in a bigger well-recognised yard.
  • Scholarships/Equine Academies – Hartpury College and University Centre offer the opportunity for a limited number of students every year to join the elite equine team where they can continue to study in an equine or non-equine sphere whilst also receiving riding, nutritional and strength training for them and their own horse.
  • Competing your own horse. Most Riders will have gained their initial competitive experience on their own or a loaned horse as it can be very difficult to get the ride on others without it. The higher level you can reach the better!

 

Our aim here at The Grooms List by Caroline Carter Recruitment, contrary to how it may seem at points in this article, is NOT to put you off following your dreams and ambitions. If becoming a professional rider is all you have ever wanted, all you can ever envisage yourself doing and you truly believe you have the talent, the confidence and the determination to make it work then we wholeheartedly encourage and support you to chase and fulfil that dream with everything you have. Our aim is simply to ensure you are heading down that road with your eyes wide open, realistic expectations and armed to the teeth with all the knowledge to give it your very best shot.

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Top Jobs!

*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 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 Full Time Groom required to look after a happy family yard near Newmarket, doing a bit of everything! We are training up for easy to get to goals and shows; working hunter; local Shows, and Pony Club activities. We mostly hack out and school, and in the Summer there is Beach Riding, Woodland Riding, The applicant MUST be a confident rider, enthusiastic and reliable. Duties and responsibilities: We are looking for an experienced Head Groom capable of managing 16.2 hunters to a high standard together with managing family horses and ponies. All duties of a professional groom in sole charge will be expected, including, but not limited to: • Building up and maintaining fitness levels • Supervising a fearless 11 year old • 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 & Trailer licence • Supervision of part time / temporary groom(s) Core working hours will be between 0800 and 1700, however the hours will vary according to the needs of the Estate and the requirements of the role with the need to start earlier and finish later when necessary. You will generally be required to be available between Monday to Sunday. Where possible you will be entitled to two days off in a seven day period at reasonable times to be agreed with the Estate. You may have to work such additional hours as are necessary for the proper performance of your duties which will include weekends and bank holidays for which you will receive time off in lieu as agreed with the Estate. This is a lovely opportunity for the right applicant to work for a friendly and relaxed family on a yard set in stunning parkland.  
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 RIDING VACANCY AVAILABLE ! Due to the increasing number of young stock we have coming through, we are now recruiting for another rider to join the team and work alongside myself, Hannah Morrow & Catherine Robinson. This is a fantastic opportunity for a keen young rider to come and base themselves at Aston-le-Walls and learn from an established and successful event team. The chosen applicant will have the option of bringing their own horse, benefiting from world class facilities and plenty of training. Alongside all the day to day yard work, the job involves helping with the riding of both the young event horses and the commercial horses for sale with the potential to compete, dependent on experience. We are looking for : – Someone ambitious and hard working with an established eventing record, preferably up to Intermediate / 3* level & experience producing young horses. – Someone with a passion for eventing and an understanding of the correct groundwork alongside having natural feel. – An empathetic rider with solid foundations on the flat and a soft approach to a fence.
Job Description We are a private livery yard consisting of 36 acres, featuring 15 stables, 25x60m manège, lunge pen, and cross-country practice course. The yard has easy access to the East Anglian Farm Rides off-road hacks on over 55 farms in Essex. The yard requires a new head groom that is willing to live onsite. The person will be responsible for the day to day needs of the horses in livery and maintaining the cleanliness and organization of the yard, stables and equipment. The suitable applicant must be at BHS level 3 (or have other equivalent training/experience), work meticulously, expeditiously and to a high standard, is comfortable working independently as well as providing supervision to junior grooms if needed, and be capable of monitoring the health and behaviour of the horses, recognizing any changes that need reporting to the horse owner. The position does not require riding but there is the possibility of occasional ridden work. Similarly, grooming, clipping and performance of other tasks may be possible. Salary: £25-30’000 per year, to be discussed Hours: 40 hours a week, Monday – Friday. Possibility to offer services to the liveries at weekends for supplementary income. Start Date April/May 2024 Minimum Requirements BHS level 3 or equivalent/equivalent experience, bandaging, first aid, lunging, mane trim/pull and clipping advantageous. Comfortable working alone and also able to provide support to less experienced grooms.   Accommodation details 1 bedroom apartment (unfurnished) available at £450 a month (price includes electricity, water) on a separate tenancy agreement   Benefits Possibility to bring own horse  
Job Description home/ show groom, opportunity to do shows UK and internationally if they would like to Minimum Requirements must have knowledge with horses and be confident with young horses   Accommodation details shared accommodation,  private ensuit bedroom and bathroom in the accommodation building there is a newly fitted out kitchen, games room, gym, laundry room garden area with bbq and seating   Benefits great team already there opportunity for international shows lovely accommodation well looked after and respected with in the team  
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 A fun and friendly yard with high professional standards, now expanding and in need of an Assistant Manager. Looking for a full time person to join the team at an eventing focused yard on a beautiful private estate near Charlbury, Oxfordshire. Largely in support of a lovely young Event Rider aiming for Europeans later this year and hoping to complete her first 4*. Looking for someone with the ability to oversee staff and the running of the yard in the Yard Managers absence, whilst also happy to muck in as part of the team. A HGV licence is essential for getting out and about, travelling to training and competitions. Confidence handling and riding big fit competition horses is key, with the successful candidate undertaking hacking, fast work and schooling if capable. There is always something new and different happening on the estate to provide an ever changing and exciting environment.   Very competitive package for the right person including own accommodation, 5 day week and salary ranging from £27-30k dependent on experience.   Minimum Requirements HGV licence – travel to training and competitions Ability to manage staff and the running of the yard in the Yard Managers absence Eventing/competition experience Confidence handling big fit competition horses This is a riding role – hacking, fastwork, lunging, potentially schooling Sense of humour!   Accommodation details Lovely own Cotswold cottage provided, with council tax and water also covered. Partners welcome, dog a possibility.   Benefits Accommodation Salary dependent on experience – £27k-£30k  
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
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.  
*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 and prorate. depending on experience plus beautiful Cotswold stone cottage accommodation (without charges). *Fab CV opportunity *Single accommodation *World-class establishment *Well behaved dog considered Groom with some performance horse experience is required to work on a TEMPORARY basis whilst we find a permanent member of staff for an established and highly motivated team who work 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. Please call Caroline & Team on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com
*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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