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The difference between employed, self-employed and freelance grooms

The difference between employed, self-employed and freelance grooms

The legal requirements which underpin being self-employed vs employed are vast but not as complicated as you might originally have thought. Here at The Grooms List by Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd, we don’t pretend to be legal, tax or HR experts on the nuances that surround this subject, but we know people who are and we rely on their expert guidance.

We proudly support Grooms who are looking for full-time employment, those self-employed/freelancing and looking to add clients to their portfolio, or indeed just starting out on either road and wondering how best to proceed. We really can and regularly do help and have many success stories that attest to that. We wouldn’t direct anyone to go one way or another specifically as it is a very personal to each individual.

 

‘On the payroll’ vs self-employed/freelance

In a recent survey by the office of national statistics, it was estimated that nearly 5 million people in the UK are self-employed. Escaping the 8-5 routines of traditional employment and taking control of your own working life, on the face of it, would seem to offer greater freedom to ‘follow your passion’. Cue the many cheesy YouTube videos starting with a sob story and ending in the bright young (always very attractive) usually American, youth living the jet set lifestyle off selling the dream to others. Anyway, I digress, in the horse world, we live by a different set of rules to most. No two days are ever the same with horses and our full-time roles can be somewhat random in terms of set hours, with horses anything can and generally does happen!

In this article, we attempt to take an objective look at the pros and cons of both employed and self-employed/freelance. We don’t look to appoint a “winner”, just to put forward the case for both sides to give you some things to consider for the future.

 

Should grooms be employed or freelance?What does being ‘on the payroll’ actually mean?

If you are ‘on the payroll’ you are employed and listed with HMRC as a member of staff for that company/employer, and you are protected by employment laws. The employer is required to pay tax and National Insurance contributions on your behalf and then, of course, there is the issue of the workplace pension etc. Deductions/contributions etc will be taken from your gross salary before you receive it and shown on your payslip (you do get a payslip right?). As an employee of that business you will have signed a contract that amongst other things states your agreed wage, working hours, holiday entitlement, work expectations and code of conduct (you do have a contract/letter of agreements right?).

 

The pros of being employed and ‘on the payroll’.

  • Paid holiday
  • Paid sick leave
  • Paid maternity leave
  • Reliability of income
  • A salary package that includes reduced or even includes accommodation with some/all bills paid
  • Often cheap or free livery for your horse and possibly lessons
  • Perks of the job. Full-time staff members who aren’t paid an hourly wage are usually more likely to be taken to competitions, training, hunting, on fun rides etc
  • Equipment for the job and sometimes work clothes are provided by the employer.
  • Same people, same horses, same sights, similar routine, every day.
  • You are protected by employment laws.

 

The cons of being employed and ‘on the payroll’.

  • Less freedom over your working hours, days off and sometimes when holidays can be taken.
  • There is sometimes an expectation you will work overtime and are on call 24/7 especially when you live on site
  • Wage increases are often modest and not always “a given”.
  • Same people, same horses, same sights, similar routine, every day.

 

 

What is the difference between ‘self-employed’ and ‘freelance’?

First of all, in the eyes of the HMRC,  ‘self-employed’ and ‘freelance’ are actually the same thing. If you believe you are currently self-employed/freelance there is some legislation which will help you decide if you genuinely are self-employed or actually employed/’on the payroll’ which is worth looking at https://www.gov.uk/employment-status/selfemployed-contractor. In short, your employment status is linked directly to the employee’s tax status – either the employer pays an individual’s National Insurance and Income Tax or the employee does. The confusion tends to come when NEITHER pays it.

Legally, a groom who has registered as self-employed is free to hire themselves out on a freelance basis, hence the term ‘Freelance Groom/Rider’, and rather than have “employers” they have “customers” or “clients”. There is a range of options for self-employment – you can choose to split your time between several retained part-time positions, or you can work on a more ad hoc basis between many yards, offering flexi-hours or taking on a string of temporary contracts – therefore you would be classed as working Freelance.

You can be self-employed and work for just one person, but there is a list of criteria you need to comply with to ensure this is legal and you don’t land in hot water. Please follow the various pages linked here for guidance!

 

The pros of being self-employed/freelance

  • Freedom and flexibility to organise your working hours around other life commitments e.g. – partners, children, hobbies, studying, holidays, competing your own horse etc.
  • Freelance grooms can usually secure a higher hourly wage but HMRC deductions need to be factored into this for actual take-home pay calculations.
  • You are paid by the hour so any overtime is easily identified and therefore chargeable.
  • When calculating your tax liability, it is possible to claim back any work clothes, and some car expenses as part of your ‘business costs’.
  • Variety in your work yard to yard and sometimes even discipline (different disciplines come into/out of season).

 

The cons of being self-employed/freelance

  • The responsibility for marketing yourself well, securing regular work and proving yourself worth the price tag you set lands solely with you. Employers can be much fickler with freelancers so you have to be good to get the work.
  • It is necessary to budget yourself smartly as a freelancer, allowing for quiet periods and loss of earnings if you are off sick for any time, injured or planning to take holiday.
  • Due to the fact you are paid hourly, speed is of course expected. Often it may seem that employers work to a different clock to you and the list of expectations can be high and this can result in conflict which, fair or unfair, can result in less than ideal references which can affect your business prospects
  • Unless you are self-disciplined, admin and record keeping can be a bind and will add the hours you actually work and you won’t get paid for doing this in working time!
  • The improved work/life balance you chose self-employment so you could enjoy can, in reality, be hard to achieve. Extra admin/paperwork and saying ‘No’ to work with no certainty they will ask again when you are quieter can be a constant worry.
  • Inconsistencies in income.
  • Your working arrangement is an agreement between you and your “client” and you do not benefit from the protection an employed receives through employment laws, meaning that disputes are a “civil matter”. In the event of a dispute, you will need to hire a solicitor to take legal action against your “client” rather than take your employer to a tribunal under employment laws.

 

Should grooms be employed or freelance?There can, at times, be some confusion over which of these employment status applies to you. Remember, to count as self-employed you need to have choice over when and where you work and should be paid an hourly wage according to an invoice that you present to the employer weekly or monthly.

It is possible to be both self-employed and on the payroll if you have a part-time contracted regular position with a yard and they have enlisted you to their payroll. This would require them to pay your income tax and NI contributions for the hours you work for them. You would be free to take on freelance work elsewhere for the rest of your time provided you are registered as self-employed and you file your self-assessment tax return accordingly for those extra hours.

 

Some ESSENTIALS for the self-employed/Freelancer

  1. Do not try to dodge the tax man. As soon as you decide the freelance life is for you get an accountant and take their advice very seriously, which may include heading on over to the HMRC website to follow this simple process to register as self-employed.
  2. Be meticulous with keeping records! These should be organised, thorough records of all work done, purchases and expenses e.g. cash taken, invoices, mileage, receipts (inc fuel) and bank statements etc.
  3. Don’t miss tax deadlines! The tax year runs from April 6th to April 5th each year. Paper self-assessments are due the following 31st October, and online submissions are due the 31st January. HMRC have now brought out a series of helpful videos to explain the whole process.

 

In Summary

In deciding what is right for you, it is always important to take into account where you would like to see your career going long term and then look back at the building blocks, which are the jobs/experiences/skills you need to get you there. Are they best served within a structured team focussing on one discipline, or sole charge on a family type yard or by freelancing moving from one yard/discipline/job function to another? Before making any rash decisions be honest with yourself, do your market research and ensure if you go the self-employed route that you can generate the kind of wage you might need whilst dealing properly with the financial/administrative responsibilities that go with that.

Ultimately, whether to go self-employed or on the payroll is a very personal choice. It doesn’t always just come down to what is the best decision financially. Similarly, if you go the employed route, will you really get what you want from remaining with one yard/employer or are you restricting yourself and your career?

If you are unsure about what’s right for you, do give Caroline Carter a call today 07747 686118 for some FREE, NO OBLIGATION and knowledgeable advice from someone who knows the industry inside out; she will happily help you to review your options impartially, or help you to give your freelance business a boost in your preferred location. Alternatively, if you aren’t already, register yourself and your business on the website www.thegroomslist.co.uk. The Grooms List includes job vacancies for employed and self-employed grooms with lots of happy stories from both sides.

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Both employers and jobseekers alike, if you would like free, friendly, no obligation recruitment advice from Caroline please do get in touch!

The content provided in this article is for informational purposes only. It is the responsibility of the individual to ensure that the information they are working to is correct and appropriate for their specific circumstances.

© Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd and The Grooms List, 2024. Unauthorised use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd and www.thegroomslist.co.uk with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

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Top Jobs!

*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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