Riding Session Volunteer
Suitable for -
Opportunity Description
Our belief that ‘Horses make a difference’ underpins all that we do.
It is a testament to the entire Cavalier Centre community of volunteers, staff, trustees, participants and supporters that the Centre continues to grow and develop, despite a few difficult years.
Our ambition is to improve even more lives through activities based around our incredible team of horses and ponies, increase our work with volunteers, partners and supporters to benefit the community and become a centre of excellence for wellbeing and equestrianism to be enjoyed by all.
Riding Session Volunteer
Responsibilities
The role of a Riding Session Volunteer is to assist the Coach in the running of the session. A typical volunteering session may include some or all of the below tasks:
Bringing horses to and from the field
Grooming horses
Tacking up
Preparing the arena for the session with equipment
Assisting in the mounting and dismounting of riders
Leading horses during the riding session
Side walking by a rider
Helping riders enter and exit the arena
Collecting poo from the arena
Preparing horses to be turned out
Mucking out stables after use
Times Needed
Various
It may be possible to volunteer for part of these sessions if the full-time commitment cannot be made.
Benefits to the Volunteer
There are numerous benefits to volunteering. Here are just a few:
Make a difference to the lives of others
Learn new skills
Enjoy working with horses and being in the countryside
Develop teamwork and problem-solving skills
Enhance your CV
Make new friends
Support & Training
All volunteers undergo a basic training programme when they start their role with the aim of completing their Basic Training Green Card. Ongoing training opportunities are provided both through the Centre and through external providers.
Requirements
Volunteers do not need to have any prior experience of working with horses or people with disabilities or additional needs. Most important is the desire to help others and learn.
Key attributes
An enthusiastic ‘can-do’ attitude
Be able to work as part of a team with people of different ages and abilities
Be able to follow the instructions of the Coach and/or Yard Staff
Work safely following guidance given
A willingness to learn and to work under The Cavalier Centre’s practice
Be friendly towards other volunteers, riders and their carers
Be flexible about your role
