Volunteer Opportunity: Experienced Rider for RDA Horse Training

We’re looking for confident riders who can help us exercise and train our ponies ready for life-changing RDA work!

Location: Gaddesden Place Riding for the Disabled Centre
Briden’s Camp, Hemel Hempstead, Herts, HP2 6EX

Role: Experienced Rider for RDA Horse Training Volunteer

About Us: At Gaddesden Place Riding for the Disabled Centre, we are dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities through the joy and therapeutic benefits of horse riding. We are looking for skilled and passionate riders to help us train and school our horses, ensuring they are ready to provide the best possible experience for our riders.

Role Description: Are you an confident rider with a knack for training horses? Join our team and play a crucial role in preparing our ponies for their important work with our riders. This is a unique opportunity to use your skills to make a significant impact on both our horses and the individuals we serve.

Responsibilities:

  • Work closely with our team to school and train our horses and ensure they are well-behaved, responsive, and ready for therapeutic riding sessions
  • Hack out with our horses to build their confidence and fitness in different environments, including:
    • Working at walk, trot and canter
    • Practising basic lateral work
    • Possibly jumping small logs
    • Building confidence on roads with traffic and machinery
  • Support us to develop and implement training plans tailored to each horse’s needs
  • Ensure the physical and mental wellbeing of our horses through consistent and compassionate handling
  • Assist with general yard duties and horse care as needed

Requirements:

  • Proven experience in riding and training horses – BHS Level 1 or 2 competency in schooling is ideal
  • A deep understanding of horse behaviour and training techniques
  • Patience, consistency, and a gentle approach to horse training
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Commitment to regular volunteering hours

Benefits:

  • Utilise and enhance your riding and training skills
  • Be part of a dedicated and supportive team
  • Make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities
  • Enjoy the rewarding experience of seeing your training efforts benefit our participants
  • Opportunities for further training and development

How to Apply: If you are an experienced rider ready to take on this rewarding challenge, please fill in our volunteer interest form, and a member of the team will be in touch!

Visit our website www.gaddesdenplacerda.org.uk to find out more about what we do, and if you have specific questions you can contact us at volunteering@gaddesdenplacerda.org.uk.

Join us and be part of something truly special, we can’t wait to welcome you to our team!