GROOMS JOBS BOARD

Riding for the Disabled (Woodbridge and District Group) are looking for an experienced riding coach to organise and deliver therapeutic horse riding activities for our disabled participants. The role is based at The Bays, our centre in Clopton near Woodbridge, Suffolk.

Ideally, we are looking for a commitment of five days (35 hours) a week (Tuesday to Saturday), but as experience and aptitude are essential, we would consider part-time/job share for the right person/people. Our riding and stable management sessions take place during school terms and other than in exceptional circumstances annual leave is to be taken outside of term-time.

The successful candidate(s) must be able to take charge of organising daily riding sessions for our participants and be confident to make decisions and deal with any issues that arise. You will work alongside our volunteers, so the ability to work effectively within a team is essential.

Key Responsibilities:

• Liaising with the Centre Manager to agree appropriate equines and volunteers for riding sessions, ensuring the safety of participants, volunteers and equines.
• Developing lesson plans and coaching riding sessions
• Reporting any issues with horses to the Centre Manager as soon as possible.
• Evaluating the safety and suitability of tack and equipment prior to each session.
• Co-ordinating / providing after-session horse and tack care.
• Instructing participants on horse care and stable management. Giving practical demonstrations as required.
• Assessment of new horses and riders.
• Management of volunteers supporting riding sessions
• Maintaining appropriate records
• Undertaking training as identified and relevant to the role.
• Regular afternoon stable/yard work and ad-hoc cover for other equine staff e.g., during holidays or sick leave.

Essential Requirements:

• An industry recognised (i.e., 1st4Sport, ABRS, BHS, EQL/ UKCC) Equestrian Coaching qualification, an Equestrian Sports Coaching Degree or City and Guilds / EQL Level 3 Horse Care Certificate plus evidence of equestrian coaching experience.
• Proven horsemanship skills and riding abilities.
• A creative coach with the ability to teach high-quality, progressive, and safe therapeutic riding lessons to children and adults.
• Able to give and receive constructive feedback. Demonstrating the ability to reflect in order to improve and progress, in terms of their own growth and that of the Group.
• The ability to evaluate the ability of students and understand their disabilities.
• The ability to communicate and interact effectively with participants, parents or caregivers and volunteers.
• The ability to work independently with initiative, i.e., able to multi-task, prioritise, and organise effectively.
• A strong team player able to work effectively with other staff members and volunteers.
• Good time management and the ability to work calmly under pressure.

Unless already completed and currently valid, the successful candidate will be required to complete the RDA Coach Certificate and a Work Place First Aid certificate within the probationary period for the role. BHS, Pony Club, EQL/UKCC and City and Guilds qualifications may allow exemption from specific modules of the RDA Coach Certificate.

Further details, including a full job description can be found on our website: www.rdawoodbridge.org.uk/about-us/vacancies

Please note: No accommodation is available on-site. Applicants must have their own transport due to the rural location of our centre. We cannot offer stabling/livery for non-RDA horses.

RDA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to a DBS check and must be able to provide personal and professional references.

To apply please send your C.V. and covering letter to Kelvin Silburn at secretary@rdawoodbridge.org.uk