Equine Yard Assistant & Rider

Reference:
JUL

Expiry date: 22:59, Wed, 12th Aug 2026

Location:

Worplesdon

Benefits:
Competitive holiday, excellent pension, fantastic onsite facilities

As an Equine Yard Assistant & Rider, you will play a vital part in the daily care and wellbeing of our horses, while also making a direct impact on the student learning experience. This is a student-facing role, meaning you’ll not only care for the horses, including assisting with exercise routines for a range of college horses, supporting the delivery of commercial courses and activities, but also support and guide our learners on the yard.

• Day to day care of the horses, ensuring adherence to our high welfare standards
• Assisting with exercise routines for a variety of college horses
• Supporting the delivery of commercial courses and equine activities
• Supervising and working alongside students and visitors to create a safe, supportive, and positive environment

This is a permanent, part-time role working 22.2 hours per week (0.60 FTE) based at our Merrist Wood College.

We are seeking a dedicated and skilled equine professional who thrives in a team and enjoys supporting the development of others. To succeed in this role, you will need to bring both technical expertise and the ability to work confidently with students in a practical, hands-on environment.

• Previous experience working on a professional equine yard or within an equine business
• A relevant professional or vocational qualification at Level 3 or above
• Experience riding a variety of horses
• BHS Stage 2 in Care, Riding, and Lunge - or the motivation to work towards it

We’re looking for someone proactive, adaptable, and committed to both their own development and the growth of our students.

Activate Learning is a pioneering education group with a global reach, committed to transforming lives through our approach to learning.

We see our employees as individuals, empowering them to make the right choices for their ambitions and careers. We value our people as vital to our continued success and aspire to a diverse, open and inclusive environment that provides the motivation for everyone to pursue their career goals and flourish.

When you work for Activate Learning, you’re working for an organisation that provides you with the advantages of a large employer, a trusted partner in your career development, and a transformational way of working whilst also investing in building a community environment for everyone.

Together, we will bring out the best version of yourself.

• Monthly Staff Appreciation Awards
  :
  Celebrating staff for their dedication and accomplishments aligned to our award-winning Learning Philosophy.
• Wellbeing & Resources Groups
  :
  Comprehensive range of resources, guides and tools to support staff wellbeing.
• Company benefits
  :
  Including free eye tests and will writing, plus access to a Health Cash Plan covering optical, dental, health screening, and therapy treatments for you and your dependents.
• Learning and Development
  : continuous opportunities for professional growth and skill enhancement through our in-house L&D team.
• Teaching Support
  :
  Tailored induction and development programs for teaching staff.
• Pension Schemes
  :
  Teacher and Local Government pension schemes for Activate Learning staff.
• Generous Annual Leave
  :
  Up to 6 weeks paid leave.
• Competitive salaries
  :
  Annual incremental progression and a twelve point pay scale for teachers.
• On-Site Facilities
  :
  Free parking at all campuses, refectories, hair and beauty salons & gym access.

Activate Learning is committed to safeguarding and expect all our staff to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be required to undergo a DBS check at the appropriate level.

Applications are encouraged from all candidates who meet or exceed minimum criteria, regardless of age, disability, gender, orientation, race, religion, or ethnicity.

Activate Learning are committed to employing people with disabilities and will ensure our recruitment process is inclusive and accessible.

If you require any reasonable adjustments either at application or interview stage, please contact the talent team directly.

Note:

Some positions may require a legally mandated health surveillance check for exposure to hazardous conditions.