Equine Groom Apprentice - Riding School

Barkway Equestrian Centre is an established equestrian yard based near Royston, Hertfordshire, providing a hands-on environment for individuals looking to develop their skills and experience in the equine industry.

What you'll do

Daily jobs will include;

• Mucking out/keeping yard area tidy
• Feeding/filling hay nets and water buckets
• Turning in and out
• Picking out feet/rugging up
• Grooming/tacking up
• Tack cleaning
• Bathing/show prep
• Lunging/long reining
• Holding for farrier/vet/dentist
• Riding for the right candidate

Experience with horses is essential.

Training

• You will be working towards the Level 2 Equine apprenticeship qualification, and all training will be provided on-site during your paid working hours
• Your day-to-day mentoring will be with your employer, and a combination of online and in person monthly sessions will be held with your Haddon Training Trainer Coach

After the apprenticeship

• For the right candidate there will be the opportunity to work towards your BHS exams, competing, teaching etc. It depends on what you are interested in moving on to!
• There is also the possibility of progressing on to the Level 3 Senior Equine Groom apprenticeship

Skills

• Communication skills
• Attention to detail
• Organisation skills
• Customer care skills
• Problem solving skills
• Team working
• Non judgemental
• Patience
• Physical fitness
• Passion for Horses
• Work Independently

Qualifications

• Desired: GCSE, English (grade 4 and Above)
• Desired: GCSE, Maths (grade 4 and Above)

Things to consider

• No accommodation is provided

About the employer

Barkway Equestrian Centre offers a friendly, varied environment working with horses and ponies, with facilities including stabling, an arena, paddocks and associated yard facilities. It also provides opportunities for riding and pony experiences.

Apprenticeship details

• Course: Equine groom (level 2), Agriculture, environmental and animal care
• Apprenticeship level: Intermediate (level 2)
• Training provider: HADDON TRAINING LIMITED
• Expected duration: 1 Year 3 Months
• Hours: 16 hours a week. Working week: Monday to Wednesday, with flexibility required for weekend work.

8am until 3pm with 30 minutes lunch break.

More hours might be available.

• Start date: 26 October 2026
• Positions available: 1
• Wage: £6,656 a year