“I want to work with horses”

One thing I’ve discovered from coaching is that coaching is only a small part of the job. Other aspects seem to include counsellor, confidante, chief cheerleader and occasional butt-kicker.

In recent weeks, with teens choosing their GCSE options and making post-16 decisions (A-levels, vocational qualifications, apprenticeships), conversations have taken a different turn, and I have found myself with the additional role of career advisor.

Inevitably, in the setting of the yard, the teens in question are frequently saying “I want to work with horses” but when asked what specifically they’d like to do, they seem a bit baffled and unable to answer. It is certainly true that the equestrian industry has exploded over recent years, with roles that are commonplace now that I don’t think even existed in my youth. If they did, they certainly hadn’t reached the wilds of East Anglia at that time.

With the huge variety of options, I thought I’d compile some of the jobs I can think of as a starting point. Here goes!

I’m sure there are even more that I haven’t thought of, and that’s before we get into the more traditional office-based jobs for equestrian-focused companies such as equipment, clothing, feed and other supplies. Dare I mention the words “Le Mieux” at this point…? These companies generally all require staff in roles encompassing Finance, Sales, Marketing, HR, Operations, Product management, IT, Facilities, Health & Safety, and more.

There are some roles which will be physically more demanding than others, as well as a wide range of potential earning opportunities, but it’s fair to say that there is something for everyone, whether they naturally lean towards academic approaches or hands-on experiences, want to have a regular desk-based role, or would thrive on the variety of seeing different people and places every day.

As for the future of equestrianism with the penetrating gaze of the general public and the much-discussed social licence to operate, my personal view is that the ever-increasing focus on equine welfare is already driving new scientific research. This is driving broader discussion which leads to progress in all aspects of equestrianism, founded on evidence-based insights, techniques and approaches. This can only be for the good of the horse, so if we, as equestrians, lean in to the conversation, participate, and stay up to date, we can help to ensure that the future of the horse world, and all the opportunities it brings, are bright for generations to come.

So, if your young person thinks they want to do something with horses, but they don’t know exactly what, encourage them to do their research and explore the many options available to them. They could even start their qualifications while still at school with organisations such as The British Horse Society and The Pony Club, or look into suitable volunteering or work experience opportunities to help give them valuable insights.

Hopefully this is a helpful starting point, but add any questions or thoughts in the comments below. Including any jobs that I’ve missed off the list!