Deputy Head Greenkeeper or Groundsman

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Gardener working with plants

A Deputy Head Groundsman or Deputy Head Greenkeeper will report directly to the Head Greenkeeper or Head Groundsman and will be responsible for ensuring the team of ground staff carry out the maintenance, care and presentation of the sports area. 

They will be responsible for ensuring the maintenance of a range of surfaces for sports including: football, cricket, rugby, tennis, bowling, horseracing, golf and athletics.

Employers can range from the public sector, to private clubs, to contractors.

They work with the Head Groundsman or Head Greenkeeper to ensure the playing surface is maintained in a good and safe condition. It may be made of natural turf, synthetic turf or a combination of both.

Deputy Head Greenkeepers tour the course at the start of the day to prepare it for play. This can require very early starts to ensure the best playing surfaces are available. Greenkeepers also need to be constantly aware of golfers on the course, making sure their work does not interfere with play, and must keep health and safety at the forefront of all their activities.

Sometimes Deputy Head Groundsmen may be involved in the construction of a new surface, which can involve reading drawings, preparing the land and making sure there is sufficient water and good standard of drainage to the surface.

They must also ensure that all equipment is checked and correctly set before use. This may include cleaning the equipment and safely storing it after use. Groundspersons will be trained in basic mechanical maintenance to undertake these tasks.

Deputy Head Groundsman or Deputy Head Greenkeeper may also need to answer queries from members of the public and deal with outside contractors. Their duties may require them to place orders and take responsibility for deliveries of products such as top dressings and fertiliser.

Some ground staff work as self-employed contractors and some specialise in particular areas of the work, such as football ground maintenance.

Working Conditions 

Ground staff usually work 37 to 40 hours a week. However, actual working hours depend on the time of year, where they work and any special events taking place on the sports pitch or court.

The hours can be unsociable and involve evenings and weekends, especially when working for professional sports clubs, which may play matches under floodlights.

Ground staff spend much of their time working outside and will be walking, lifting and bending. In some cases, a Deputy Head Groundsman or Deputy Head Greenkeeper may need to travel around a large site, or to divide their time between several locations. A driving licence is usually required for this role.

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Salary

Salaries vary with experience, qualifications and between companies, but here's a guide to what you can expect. There may be extra payments for overtime and working unsociable hours, and accommodation is sometimes provided.

Starting salary:

£15,000

Ending Salary:

£30,000

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Getting started

You should have an interest in sports turf, working outdoors and practical hands on work such as gardening or general horticultural work. Greenkeepers should be interested in golf and the challenges that players expect from a course.

Including volunteers, the Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG) has estimated that there are more than 100,000 ground staff in the UK.

Grounds staff are mainly employed by organisations that manage playing fields and other leisure facilities. These include local authorities, which maintain over 50% of all sports surfaces in the UK, sports clubs, landscape contractors, schools and colleges, and golf clubs.

There are around 15,000 Greenkeepers working in the UK. Employers include:

  • Private golf clubs
  • Local authority leisure departments that operate public golf courses
  • Hotels with golf facilities
  • Ground maintenance contractors.

In recent years the promotion of the link between playing sport and good health has meant more leisure facilities and more opportunities for ground staff, particularly those with the right qualifications or aptitude to working in the industry.

Jobs are available throughout the country, with the most opportunities in more heavily populated areas.

Summer jobs and work experience are useful as they show an understanding of the techniques and the equipment needed to do the job. Seasonal jobs may also be available for unskilled trainees.

It is useful for ground staff working in a particular sport to have a good knowledge of that particular game.  

Although ground staff do not need formal qualifications, it can be helpful to have some experience in gardening or horticulture. With this type of experience there may be opportunities to begin work as an unskilled groundsman. It may also be possible to enter this career through an appropriate Apprenticeship scheme

What experienced workers can do

  • Plant and soil science
  • Use of all relevant machinery
  • Good knowledge of irrigation and drainage methods and equipment
  • Knowledge of the relevant sports regulations
  • Communication skills.

Personal qualities you should have

  • Flexible
  • Enjoys working out doors
  • Good communication skills
  • Can work well as a team or on own.
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Next steps

Promotion often depends on the size of the business and can also depend on the achievement of higher-level qualifications.

The IOG offers a range of courses for people who want to continue their professional development or specialise in particular areas of the work.

Some ground staff move into leisure management or estate management. Others set up their own grounds maintenance companies or work for, or as consultants. Those with the right academic qualifications may have the opportunity to carry out research work.

Deputy Head Greenkeeper with suitable qualifications and experience can move into supervisory positions and then become Course Managers. Some may progress to manage several courses by becoming Estate Managers.

An understanding of the techniques and science of different playing surfaces can lead to employment opportunities in other sports. It may also be possible to move into agronomy or golf course design.

There may also be opportunities to become self-employed and to work overseas.

Useful links

British Association of Landscape Industries

British International Golf Greenkeepers Association

Greenkeepers Training Committee

Horticulture Jobs

Horticultural Trades Association

Institute of Groundsmanship

Institute of Horticulture

My world of work

Royal Horticultural Society

Botanist

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Gardener working with plants

Botanists (sometimes known as plant biologists) study all forms of plant life. They have many different job roles as their work can be used in many areas of plant science. If you are fascinated by plants and you are keen on working in science, this could be an ideal job choice for you.

To do this job you will need to have accuracy, attention to detail and strong communication skills.

Botanists may work in:

  • Field research, conducting scientific surveys of natural habitats, identifying, recording and monitoring plant species and searching for new species
  • Conservation, protecting, managing and enhancing plant life
  • Laboratory research on a range of projects, such as discovering how plants convert simple chemical compounds into more complex chemicals or studying how genetic information (DNA) controls plant development
  • Lecturing in a university or college
  • Managing plant collections, for example as a curator of a botanic garden or keeper of a herbarium.

As a botanist, you could specialise in:

  • The study of specific plant groups
  • Plant anatomy and physiology
  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular biology
  • Genetics
  • Ecology
  • Marine botany
  • Paleobotany (study of fossilised plant remains)
  • Taxonomy (the identification and classification of plants).

Botanists may work with other scientists and technicians, employees and volunteers from conservation organisations and representatives from local and national government and industry.

Working Conditions 

Your working hours will vary according to the exact nature of the job.

Botanists working in research and higher education usually work a standard full-time week, Monday to Friday. Additional hours may be required at busy times. Those working in conservation may be required to host open days for the public or work with volunteers at weekends and bank holidays. They may also have to go to evening meetings.

Experimental botanists spend most of their time in laboratories conducting research, while environmental botanists often spend a lot of time in the field making and recording observations. Those working in higher education divide their time between lecture theatres, classrooms, laboratories and offices. Conservation botanists work in offices and laboratories, as well as  in the field. Field researchers can spend most of their time outdoors, although this may vary depending on the time of year.

Botanists can work all over the world and may have to cope with difficult climates. Fieldwork can be physically demanding.

A driving licence is often needed for travelling between different places of work.

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Salary

Salaries vary with experience, qualifications and between companies, but here's a guide to what you can expect.

Starting salary:

£22,000

Ending Salary:

£30,000

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Getting started

There are around 5,000 botanists in the UK and competition for jobs, especially in conservation and fieldwork can be intense.

Many jobs are offered on short-term contracts. Employers include:

  • Universities
  • Private research organisations and institutes
  • Conservation organisations
  • Local authorities
  • Government agencies
  • Nature reserves and country parks
  • Botanical gardens and museums
  • Food and pharmaceutical companies.

For most botanist jobs you will need a degree in a relevant subject.

Competition for jobs can be strong, especially in fieldwork and conservation, so it helps to have volunteering experience with relevant organisations before applying for your first job. As a volunteer, you may be trained in areas such as conservation techniques and plant identification.

What experienced workers can do

  • Be able to keep accurate records of research
  • Good communication skills to convey technical information to people with little or no scientific knowledge
  • Leadership skills
  • Research skills - the ability to analyse, interpret and report on data
  • A thorough knowledge of science, particularly biology and chemistry
  • Problem-solving ability.

Personal qualities you should have

  • Have an interest in science and plants
  • Have an interest in a particular sector where botany is important, such as conservation, teaching, research, food or pharmaceuticals
  • Accuracy and attention to detail
  • Methodical approach
  • Patience, perseverance and good concentration
  • Enjoy working in a team and on his or her own initiative.
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Next steps

Career progression for conservation and field research workers usually involves taking on more responsibility for projects and advising or managing others.

In universities, botanists may be promoted from researcher to lecturer, then to higher grades, such as senior lecturer, principal lecturer, reader, professor or head of department.

There may be an established career structure in industries, with experienced botanists being promoted to more senior positions.

Some botanists become self-employed and work as freelance consultants.

Botanists working in conservation, fieldwork or for multinational companies may have the opportunity to work overseas.

Useful links

British Association of Landscape Industries

British International Golf Greenkeepers Association

Greenkeepers Training Committee

Horticulture Jobs

Horticultural Trades Association

Institute of Groundsmanship

Institute of Horticulture

My world of work

Royal Horticultural Society

Yard Manager

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Horse riding in school with instructor

Yard Managers are employed by equestrian business owners to make sure the yard runs efficiently. They are responsible for the daily running of the yard, including managing staff, care of the horses, all aspects of health and safety and dealing with clients and owners.  This role is mostly office based.

As a Yard Manager, you may work on various types of yards, such as competition, breeding, training, riding schools, racing and trekking. Your work would depend partly on the type and size of the yard.  

On smaller equestrian establishments, you may have sole charge of a yard and do more practical work, such as looking after the horses, riding horses and yard maintenance. 

In competition, hunting or racing yards, Yard Managers may also prepare horses for events and accompany them.

In stud and breeding yards, duties may also include: 

  • Working with stallions, mares and foals
  • Assisting with foaling and handling youngstock 
  • Handling of mares and stallions during breeding, training of youngsters
  • Running competitions
  • Instructing
  • Transporting horses’
  • Promoting and marketing the establishment
  • Liaising with owners/clients
  • Driving HGV and non-HGV vehicles such as horseboxes, tractors and trailers.

Working Conditions 

Yard Managers work around 40 hours a week but may work longer on occasions. Early mornings, late nights and weekend working is a common practice for Yard Managers. 

Most of the work is outdoors, in all weather conditions and can involve lifting, carrying, bending, climbing and standing for long periods.

Equestrian businesses are often a long way from town, so a driving licence may be useful. 

Due to location and the nature of the job role, some Yard Manager positions are ‘live-in’ and most involve travelling and staying away from home e.g. during competitions. If you hold a ‘live-in position you will have the overall responsibility of the yard and therefore may be called upon to respond to any emergencies or issues at any time day or night.

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Salary

Some employers provide accommodation, food, free stabling for their employees’ horses and riding instruction, so individual salaries may vary.

Starting salary:

£16,000

Ending Salary:

£24,000

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Getting started

Yard Managers need plenty of practical experience with excellent organisational and communication skills and the ability to run a business.  They will work throughout the UK and abroad. 

You could this industry as an Assistant Yard Manager then progress with experience to become a Yard Manager.

Potential employers include riding schools, private stables, competition yards, college equine units, polo yards, livery stables, producers, stud yards, hunting yards, trekking centres, horse rehabilitation centres and the armed forces.

To improve employment opportunities you should gain experience working on a yard as a Groom or Yard Assistant for a number of years whilst specialising in a specific area such as breeding.

What experienced workers can do

  • Maintain the health and well-being of equines
  • Plan the running of the equestrian yard
  • Recognise signs of equine illnesses
  • Maintain records
  • Manage budgets
  • Communicate with others effectively
  • Selecting, purchasing and selling of horses
  • Recruit, train and supervise staff.

Personal qualities you should have

  • Good communication skills
  • Genuine interest in horses and their welfare
  • Flexible about working hours and location
  • Self-motivated
  • Willing to undertake routine and practical tasks.
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Next steps

With experience and relevant qualifications you may be able to develop your skills in a number of directions.  This could provide you with more responsibilities with an existing employer depending on the size of the organisation, but you may have to move to another business.

Experienced Yard Managers may also become:

  • Instructor/Coach
  • Event Co-ordinator
  • Trainer (Racing)
  • Owner of a yard.

There may also be opportunities to work and train abroad. 

Useful links

Association of British Riding Schools

British Grooms Association

British Horse Society in Scotland

British Horseracing Authority

My world of work

The British Racing School

The National Stud

Trek Leader Centre Operator

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Horse riding in school with instructor

Jobs vary depending on the employer but the main tasks are usually:

  • Assess riders' ability and confidence and choose horses or ponies to suit them
  • Explain safety procedures and riding techniques, such as mounting, dismounting and halting
  • Make sure that all riders wear appropriate clothing and follow safety procedures.

Trek Leader Centre Operators may also be responsible for:

  • The care of horses or ponies
  • Planning routes
  • Making sure that tack is kept clean and in good order
  • Checking the standard of grooming and the general care of horses and ponies.

Trek Leaders may have to organise yard staff and train Assistant Ride Leaders. They must also be able to take temporary charge of the centre when the owner or manager is away.

Working Conditions 

Working hours tend to be long and can include evening and weekend work, especially during the main holiday period. Many Trek Leaders work part-time or seasonally. Most of the work takes place outdoors in all weather conditions.

Trek Leaders organise and run horse and pony riding activities, particularly treks and hacks across open countryside. They may work with groups or individuals and visitors can be first-time riders, through to experienced riders.

With the right qualifications there may be opportunities to work abroad. 

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Salary

Some employers provide accommodation, food, free stabling for their employees’ horses and riding instruction, so individual salaries may vary.

Starting salary:

£12,000

Ending Salary:

£18,000

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Getting started

Trek Leaders need good riding skills and experience of horse care and management. Some Trek Leaders have first worked as Assistant Trek Leaders escorting up to six riders on short rides, treks or hacks, and helping Trek Leaders on rides or treks which are longer or have more riders.

Volunteering and seasonal work can be a good way to get started.

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
  • Maintain records
  • Map reading skills and familiarity with the local countryside
  • Communicate with others. 

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
  • Flexible about working hours and location
  • Self-motivated.
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Next steps

Trek Leaders may progress into specific jobs such as in an equine tourism centre. They may also have the opportunity to progress to Yard Manager or Riding Centre Manager but this will depend on the opportunities available and may mean moving to another establishment.

Useful links

Association of British Riding Schools

British Grooms Association

British Horse Society in Scotland

British Horseracing Authority

My world of work

The British Racing School

The National Stud

Trek Assistant

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Horse riding in school with instructor

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.

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Salary

Some employers provide accommodation, food, free stabling for their employees’ horses and riding instruction, so individual salaries may vary.

Starting salary:

£12,000

Ending Salary:

£18,000

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Getting started

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.
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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

British Grooms Association

British Horse Society in Scotland

British Horseracing Authority

My world of work

The British Racing School

The National Stud

Stud Manager

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Horse riding in school with instructor

Stud Managers are employed by equestrian business owners to make sure the yard runs efficiently. They are responsible for the daily running of the yard, including managing staff, care of the horses, health and safety and dealing with clients.

As a Stud Manager, you could work on various types of yards, such as competition, breeding, training, riding schools, racing and trekking. Your work would depend partly on the type and size of the yard but you may be required to:

  • Plan the running of the equestrian yard
  • Plan the horses’ exercise routine
  • Plan horses’ routine care and keep appropriate records for vaccinations, farrier, teeth and worming
  • Purchase and maintenance of feed and equipment
  • Keep appropriate records such as financial, insurance, accident reporting
  • Conduct risk assessments
  • Maintenance of grassland
  • Select, purchase and sell horses
  • Recruit, train and supervise staff.

On smaller equestrian establishments, you may have sole charge of a yard and do more practical work, such as looking after the horses, riding horses and yard maintenance.

In competition, hunting or racing yards, Yard Managers may also prepare horses for events and may accompany them. In smaller studs and breeding yards, duties may also include working with stallions, mares and foals, assisting with foaling and handling young stock.

Depending on your skills and qualifications, you may also have responsibility for other activities, for example running competitions, instructing, transporting horses, promoting and marketing the establishment and liaising with owners and clients.

Working Conditions 

Stud Managers work around 40 hours a week but this may be longer on occasions. Early mornings, late nights and weekend working is common practice for Stud Managers. Work can involve lifting, carrying, bending, climbing and standing for long periods, and is mainly outdoors, in all weather conditions.

Equestrian businesses are often a long way from towns, so a driving licence may be useful.

Due to location and the nature of the job role, some positions are live-in, so managers may be on call to respond to any emergencies or issues on the yard.

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Salary

Some employers provide accommodation, food, free stabling for their employees’ horses and riding instruction, so individual salaries may vary.

Starting salary:

£14,000

Ending Salary:

£20,000

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Getting started

You should have a genuine interest, knowledge and experience of working with horses and their welfare, enjoy working outdoors and have good organisational and leadership skills.

Stud Managers work throughout the UK and abroad. Employers include riding schools, private stables, competition yards, college equine units, polo yards, livery stables, producers, stud yards, hunting yards, trekking centres, horse rehabilitation centres and the Armed Forces.

What experienced workers can do

  • Care for visitors
  • Ensure a healthy and safe workplace
  • Inspect horses for specific requirements
  • Establish basic training
  • Control and organise the breeding of horses
  • Control and organise the rearing of young stock
  • Control and organise foaling and care of the foal
  • Oversee the sales preparation procedures.

Personal qualities you should have

  • Have a genuine interest in horses and their welfare
  • Good communications skills
  • Good organisation skills
  • Flexible and adaptable
  • Self-motivated
  • Have the ability to work alone and also as part of a team.
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Next steps

With experience and relevant qualifications you could develop your skills in a number of directions. You may then get more responsibility with an existing employer, depending on the size of the organisation, but may need to find work elsewhere to progress.

Experienced Stud Managers may also become:

  • Instructor/Coach
  • HGV Driver
  • Rider
  • Event Co-ordinator
  • Trainer (Racing)
  • Stud Manager
  • Business Manager.

Stud Managers wanting to also become riding instructors can take BHS or ABRS teaching qualifications.

There are opportunities to work and train abroad.

Useful links

Association of British Riding Schools

British Grooms Association

British Horse Society in Scotland

British Horseracing Authority

My world of work

The British Racing School

The National Stud

Stud Hand

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Horse riding in school with instructor

A Stud Hand will be responsible for the care of several mares and foals. Handling duties involves turning them out, fetching them in, holding them for teasing, covering, veterinary inspection, farriery and showing them to owners and clients. Stud staff may be required to work at the bloodstock sales after the breeding season. 

Working Conditions

Stud hands will normally work around 40 hours a week, but longer on occasions. They may also be expected to cover early mornings, late nights and weekends. Part-time, seasonal and casual work is often available. Most work is outdoors, in all weather conditions, and can involve lifting, carrying, bending, climbing and standing for long periods. Stables can be a long way from towns, so a driving licence may be useful.  Some jobs involve travelling and staying away from home.

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Salary

Some employers provide accommodation, food, free stabling for their employees’ horses and riding instruction, so individual salaries may vary.

Starting salary:

£12,000

Ending Salary:

£18,000

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Getting started

With experience and relevant qualifications you could progress to management or more senior positions. The career structure will vary depending on the size of the organisation, but you may have to move elsewhere to find another job.

Experienced Stud Hands may become Stud Managers. There are also opportunities to work and train abroad.

To become a Stud Hand you should:

  • Have a genuine interest in horses and their welfare
  • Enjoy working outdoors
  • Like working with people.

Volunteering or taking temporary work should improve your chances of getting into the equine industry.

What experienced workers can do

  • Maintain the health and well-being of equines
  • Maintain harness and saddles
  • Groom and clean a horse
  • Maintain health and safety and appropriate personal protective equipment
  • Be responsible under animal health and welfare and health and safety legislation
  • Preparing horses for shows, racing or transport
  • Maintain records
  • Able to recognise signs of equine illnesses.

Personal qualities you should have

  • Have a genuine interest in horses and their welfare 
  • Good communication skills
  • Good organisation skills
  • Flexible and adaptable
  • Self-motivated
  • Have the ability to work alone and also as part of a team.
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Next steps

With experience and relevant qualifications you could progress to management or more senior positions. The career structure will vary depending on the size of the organisation, but you may have to move elsewhere to find another job.

Experienced Stud Hands may become Stud Managers. There are also opportunities to work and train abroad.

Useful links

Association of British Riding Schools

British Grooms Association

British Horse Society in Scotland

British Horseracing Authority

My world of work

The British Racing School

The National Stud

Riding Instructor Coach

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Horse riding in school with instructor

Riding Instructors and Coaches work with riders of all ages, levels of ability and experience ranging from complete beginners to more experienced competitors, depending on your own abilities. 

They will plan, deliver and review safe and competent lessons working with different levels of students as follows:

  • Trainee Instructor/Level 1 Coach will support senior qualified coaches and instructors to teach students
  • Assistant Instructor/Level 2 Coach will run coaching sessions for riders from beginners to Novice level, lunging of horse and rider to show improvement, and jumping to Stage 2 Level.
  • Intermediate Instructor/level 3 Coach should be able to show genuine improvement of horse and rider, demonstrate sound practical business knowledge and be conversant with running a commercial yard.
  • Instructor/Level 4 Coach is qualified to teach riders up to Advanced Medium Dressage, Intermediate Horse Trials and Foxhunter level show jumping.

Planning, conducting and reviewing coaching sessions is common at all levels of coaching.  The different levels of Instructor/Coach will be trained to coach in their specialist area and will prepare, deliver and review sessions in activities such as Dressage, Showjumping, Eventing, Horseball, Reining, Endurance, Driving, Riding for the Disabled, Vaulting, Polo cross and Western.

The role varies at different levels. 

Trainee Instructor/Level 1 Coach

  • Assist other instructors/coaches with lessons
  • Check the correct tack is being used
  • Assist riders where necessary
  • Lead novice riders. 

Assistant Instructor/Level 2 Coach

  • Work with individuals or groups who want to ride for leisure, prepare for competitions or achieve equestrian qualifications
  • Provide practical demonstrations to support others
  • Teach classroom theory sessions to support others.

Intermediate Instructor/Level 3 Coach

  • Work with individuals or groups who want to ride for leisure, prepare for competitions or achieve equestrian qualifications
  • Provide practical demonstrations to support others
  • Teach classroom theory sessions to support others
  • Attend events and be a role model at county/regional level
  • Prepare, deliver and evaluating annual programmes for rider development
  • Supervise others, such as Trainee Instructors/Level 1 Coach and Assistant Instructors/Level 2 Coach
  • Train horses, riding and schooling them from the ground. 

Instructor/Level 4 Coach

  • Manage and assess staff/trainees
  • Show that you are competent and confident in all aspects of horse care and management
  • Undertake practical handling skills
  • Offer sound theoretical knowledge to other coaches/instructors
  • Manage the business aspects of an equestrian establishment
  • Train a variety of horses using sound training principles both on the flat and over fences
  • Work with horses on the ground
  • Actively compete horses in affiliated competitions. 

Working Conditions

An Instructor/Coach will have vast knowledge and skills of handling and riding horses.  They will also have lots of experience in different aspects of equine theory and management.  The hours of work may vary but usually will include evenings and weekends. The work can also be seasonal depending on location.

A driving licence is often useful.  Due to location some instructors work away from home or live in at the riding school.

The work can take place outside on grass, all weather arenas or in indoor arenas. 

 

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Salary

Some employers provide accommodation, food, free stabling for their employees’ horses and riding instruction, so individual salaries may vary.

Starting salary:

£12,000

Ending Salary:

£30,000

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Getting started

Although there are different ways to enter the industry you could begin as a groom within a stable and progress to Instructor after gaining experience and qualifications. 

There are opportunities to gain employment as a trainee instructor/Level 1 Coach, Assistant Instructor/Level 2 Coach or apprentice within a range or riding establishments. 

These could be members of Association of British Riding Schools (ABRS). The British Horse Society (BHS) riding schools have to be registered with the local authority but do not have to be members of any organisation. Riding schools can range in size from those with only one instructor to those employing a dozen or more.

Other routes to becoming an Instructor include; college, through competing in a specific discipline such as show jumping or dressage and training with the affiliate body.

What experienced workers can do

  • Carry out stable yard duties
  • Complete any administration required at your level of competence
  • Establish and maintain good customer service and working relationships with others
  • Monitor personal skills for instructing/coaching practice
  • Ensure that all coaching is carried out safely, fairly and in a suitable environment
  • Provide classroom and stable management lectures
  • Advise on safe and appropriate clothing and conduct
  • Prepare and deliver theory and practical lessons for individuals or groups at different levels of your own competence
  • Assess riders at your own level of competence
  • Give practical demonstrations to others.

Personal qualities you should have

  • Have a real desire to help people improve
  • Have a genuine interest in horses and their welfare
  • Good communication skills
  • Able to work in a team.
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Next steps

A fully qualified Instructor/Coach could progress to become a Senior Instructor/Coach at a riding school, work freelance or elsewhere within their chosen discipline. There may also be opportunities to work abroad.

Useful links

Association of British Riding Schools

British Grooms Association

British Horse Society in Scotland

British Horseracing Authority

My world of work

The British Racing School

The National Stud

Riding Centre Manager

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Horse riding in school with instructor

Riding Centre Managers oversee the running of horse riding centres which offer riding and trekking activities and holidays.  Some managers also own the venues too.

They are responsible for the organisation, operation and marketing of the centre, and for supervising the care of the horses. The job varies depending on the employer but main tasks include:

  • Balance the organisation of the riding centre and welfare and care of the animals with marketing and operation
  • Liaise with local tour operators to enhance business opportunities
  • Ordering of all supplies including horse food, supplements etc.
  • Ensuring that the business meets health and safety requirements
  • Planning and organising all business aspects of the centre, including marketing, administration and finances
  • Overseeing the management of the horses and ensuring the treks are suitably planned
  • Arranging daily routines for horse care and stable management
  • Handling queries, problems and complaints
  • Recruiting and managing staff, organising work rotas and arranging training.

Working Conditions

Riding Centre Managers usually work long hours, including evenings and weekends. Actual hours vary with the type and size of the centre. They will spend some time working indoors in an office but also work outdoors in all weather conditions.

Trekking centres are situated throughout the UK but are more common in rural parts of the country and in coastal areas.

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Salary

Some employers provide accommodation, food, free stabling for their employees’ horses and riding instruction, so individual salaries may vary.

Starting salary:

£16,000

Ending Salary:

£20,000

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Getting started

People usually start in related jobs, such as an Assistant Ride Leader, Trainee Instructor, Level 1 Coach or Groom, and work their way up to a management role.

Qualifications are often required, as well as a real interest and enthusiasm for working with horses. 

If you are working in the equestrian tourism industry, you can complete equestrian tourism qualifications. These are especially suitable if you take out treks, trail rides or hacks for more experienced riders. 

What experienced workers can do

  • Leadership and decision making
  • A good riding ability
  • Thorough knowledge and understanding of stable management
  • Customer-care
  • Business administration and management skills and or qualifications
  • Sound knowledge of horse breeds which are suitable for recreational riding
  • Maintain appropriate Personal Protective Equipment
  • Work to relevant animal health and welfare legislations and codes of practice
  • Knowledge, experience and training in equestrian work.
  • Maintenance of grasslands for equines
  • Map reading skills for planning and taking rides.

Personal qualities you should have

  • Good communication skills
  • Genuine interest in horses and their welfare
  • Flexible about working hours and location
  • Self-motivated
  • Willing to undertake routine and practical tasks.
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Next steps

Riding Centre Managers may also have the opportunity to expand their skills and qualifications.  This would depend on the size and type of equestrian establishment they work in.

Other roles could include:

  • Equine Tourism Examiner
  • Instructor or Coach
  • Yard Manager
  • Horse Transporter
  • Business Yard Manager. 

Useful links

Association of British Riding Schools

British Grooms Association

British Horse Society in Scotland

British Horseracing Authority

My world of work

The British Racing School

The National Stud

Registered Farrier

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Horse riding in school with instructor

Farriers work closely with horse owners and vets to prepare horses’ feet and fit shoes. They need practical skills to shoe both normal and defective feet and make shoes suitable for all types of work and working conditions. This involves:  
•    Checking the horse's leg, foot and hoof
•    Discussing and agreeing the horse’s shoeing requirements with the owner
•    Cutting away excess hoof growth and make sure the horse is balanced correctly
•    Choosing the most appropriate shoe for the horse relating to its size, foot condition, activity, work and working conditions
•    Fitting the shoe and complete any finishing off work
•    Adjusting the shape of the shoe if necessary using the relevant tools.

Horseshoes are made either by hand or machine and can be fitted hot or cold. Their shape can be adjusted by the Farrier, using a hammer and anvil. Farriers sometimes have to discuss foot treatments with owners and vets and devise corrective measures to compensate for any faulty limb actions.

There are around 2,500 registered Farriers in the UK. Most are self-employed, working for a variety of clients and there is an ongoing demand for their skills. Clients include farmers, racehorse owners, private horse owners, the owners and managers of riding schools and stables, animal attractions and the military police. There may also be the opportunity to train as a Farrier within the Army through the Army's own specific training route.

Qualified Farriers are registered with the Farriers Registration Council (FRC) which can provide a list of all registered Farriers. As most are self-employed, some time is spent organising appointments with customers and finding new customers when necessary as well as ordering stocks and tools used for the job and carrying out general book-keeping and administrative work.

Working Conditions

Farriery is a skilled profession and Registered Farriers are capable of shoeing all types of equine feet and making shoes to suit all types of work and working conditions. The majority of Farriers are self-employed so business skills and customer care are important. Farriery is a regulated profession by law.
 
Working hours vary from week to week, depending on the needs of their customers. They do most of their work during daylight hours, but may also provide emergency cover which can be at any time of the day or night.
 
They travel between different customers, visiting farms, riding stables, and livery yards, to carry out their work. A driving licence is necessary as is a vehicle suitable for carrying around a mobile workshop of stock and tools.

Farriery is hard, physical work. It involves bending, lifting and walking, and sometimes working outdoors in all weather conditions.

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Salary

Farriers usually charge an hourly rate or negotiate a fee for a whole appointment.

Starting salary:

£16,000

Ending Salary:

£35,000

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Getting started

You should have a genuine interest in horses, their care, behaviour and welfare, and enjoy working for different types of customers in a variety of different locations.

To become a Registered Farrier you must complete an Advanced Apprenticeship with an FRC Approved Training Farrier (ATF). You need to find an Approved Training Farrier (ATF) who will employ you for the apprenticeship. Work experience or voluntary work at riding schools, stables or on a farm, is valuable, as is horse ownership and riding skills.

What experienced workers can do

  • Market your services and find new customers
  • Manage a small business
  • Maintain and operate mobile gas and coke fired forges
  • Make shoemaking tools
  • Handle and control equines
  • Assess the overall condition and footcare requirements of the equine
  • Determine the footcare and shoeing plan for equines
  • Remove horseshoes and assess wear
  • Trim and dress hooves
  • Make and fit horseshoes
  • Attach horseshoes and finish the shoeing process.

Personal qualities you should have

  • Good communication skills
  • Able to use initiative
  • Able to prioritise work
  • Able to be flexible and adaptable.
  • Self-motivated
  • Be able to work alone or as part of a team.
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Next steps

The success of self-employed Farriers depends on them getting enough customers for full-time work. It is also important to build a reputation based on customer satisfaction and recommendation to other horse owners.

Permanent employment may be available in larger riding schools, stables, and horse breeders. There may be promotion opportunities to senior Farrier or to a management position. Overseas work may sometimes be available, especially within the horse breeding and racing field.

One option for career progression is to become an Approved Training Farrier (ATF) and be able to employ and train apprentice Farriers.

To become an ATF you will need to have been qualified for a minimum of 2 years and undertake the ATF course.

Useful links

The British Farriers & Blacksmiths Association  

The Farriers Registration Council

My world of work

Worshipful Company of Farriers

 

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