A Trek Assistant will assist the Trek Leader in organising and running horse and pony riding activities, particularly treks and hacks across open countryside.
They may work with organised groups, individuals or small family units. Visitors can be first-time riders, novices or experienced riders.
A Trek Assistant may be employed at a riding or trekking centre.
Working Conditions
Working hours tend to be long and can include evening and weekend work, especially during holidays. Many Trek Assistants work part-time or seasonally.
Most of the work takes place outdoors in all weather conditions.
With the right qualifications there may be opportunities to work abroad.
Salary
Some employers provide accommodation, food, free stabling for their employees’ horses and riding instruction, so individual salaries may vary.
£12,000
£18,000
Getting started
Relevant qualifications
Trek Assistants work throughout the UK, although most will be situated in scenic or remote locations.
No academic qualifications are needed to become a Trek Assistant but a real interest and enthusiasm for working with horses is very important. To get started it is often useful to have done volunteering or temporary work.
What experienced workers can do
- Maintain the health and well being of equines
- Maintain tack
- Restrain a horse when necessary
- Groom and clean a horse
- Recognise signs of equine illness
- Communicate with others
- Assisting the trek leader driving a trek
- Assisting with mounting and dismounting
- Map reading skills and familiarity with the local countryside.
Personal qualities you should have
- Have good riding skills
- Have good customer service skills
- Have good communication skills
- Be able to meet the physical demands of the job
- Have a genuine interest in horses and their welfare
- Flexible about working hours and location
- Self-motivated
- Willing to undertake routine, practical tasks.
Next steps
Trek Assistants can progress to the role of Trek Leader with further experience and training.
Trek Assistants could find work overseas, as the qualifications are recognised internationally.
Useful links
Association of British Riding Schools