Riding Instructor

Also known as:

Horse Riding Instructor

Introduction

Riding instructors teach people of all ages to ride. Other duties include exercising and training horses and ponies and dealing with supplies, accounts and reports.

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Work Activities

Riding instructors teach children and adults, both on an individual basis and in class groups. Teaching may include jumping techniques and hack rides, as well as flat riding; this depends on the place of employment. For each lesson the instructor devises and follows a lesson plan in order to keep track of what has been learned and practised.

Most instructors have other duties in addition to teaching. These include exercising horses and ponies (in all weather) and training the young animals. Some time is spent in caring for the horses and ponies and in cleaning stables and tack. Paperwork for ordering supplies, handling accounts, and writing progress reports on clients may also be required.

Some instructors work with people who have disabilities or learning support needs.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

Patience, a sympathetic manner and a liking for both people and horses are important. You will need good communication skills to help you encourage riders effectively.

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Pay and Opportunities

Pay rates for riding instructors vary widely with employer, location and type of activity.

The pay rates given below are approximate.

They earn in the range of £12,000 - £14,000 a year, rising to around £18,500 - £21,000 a year. Some employers provide instructors with meals and accommodation.

In the education and training sector those who work as lecturers or assessors, can make around £23,000 - £33,000 a year.

Riding instructors usually work a basic 40-hour week. However, long hours, including early starts, late finishes and work on weekends and public holidays, may be required. Some posts are seasonal.

Employers throughout the UK include riding schools, equestrian centres, polo yards, livery yards (which look after horses on behalf of owners), stud and breeding yards, private competition yards, and holiday trekking and riding centres.

There are also opportunities for qualified instructors to work in overseas countries.

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Adult Opportunities

Age limits apply to this occupation. There are minimum age limits for the examinations of the British Horse Society (BHS) and Association of British Riding Schools (ABRS).

Modern Apprenticeships may be available in some areas.

• 51% of people in occupations such as riding instructor work part-time.
• 7% have flexible hours.
• 10% of employees work on a temporary basis.

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