Reins & Roots Equine Learning Practitioner
The Orchard Equine & Land Based College is looking for a suitably qualified and experienced equine professional to join our team and support the delivery of Reins & Roots, our bespoke equine-based personal development and learning programme.
Reins & Roots is much more than horse-care activities. It uses meaningful learning alongside horses to help young people develop confidence, communication, emotional regulation, resilience, independence, responsibility, life skills, employability skills and preparation for adulthood.
Working alongside our existing equine and education team, you will support young people through structured equine-based learning, using your knowledge and experience to maintain excellent standards of horse care and safety while helping learners develop wider skills for life.
The role will include:
- Supporting the delivery of structured Reins & Roots sessions
- Supporting learners with practical horse care, handling, welfare and stable management
- Helping learners develop confidence, communication, independence and responsibility
- Embedding life skills, employability and preparation for adulthood within practical learning
- Supporting learners to develop teamwork, problem-solving and positive workplace behaviours
- Building positive, consistent and professional relationships with young people
- Observing, recording and evidencing learner progress
- Following individual learner plans, risk assessments, safeguarding procedures and The Orchard’s trauma-informed approach
- Working collaboratively with the wider Orchard team
Applicants must hold a relevant recognised equine qualification and have substantial hands-on experience working with and handling horses. You must be confident and competent around horses with a sound knowledge of equine care, welfare, stable management and safe working practices.
We do not specifically require BHS qualifications. Relevant recognised equine qualifications from appropriate awarding organisations or education providers will be considered alongside practical experience.
Experience supporting young people with SEND and/or SEMH, particularly within alternative provision, would be desirable, as would an understanding of trauma-informed practice. However, we recognise that the right person may not have experience in every area, and training and ongoing support will be provided.
We are looking for someone who is calm, patient, reliable and encouraging, with the ability to recognise that practical equine experiences can provide opportunities for much wider personal development and learning.
Reins & Roots is a bespoke programme developed by The Orchard. The successful applicant will be required to sign a confidentiality and non-disclosure agreement (NDA) relating to programme materials and intellectual property.
The Orchard is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Appointment will be subject to our safer recruitment procedures, including appropriate DBS and pre-employment checks, satisfactory references and verification of the successful applicant’s right to work in the UK.
Pay: From £13.50 per hour
Expected hours: 21.0 per week
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
