They are not in any particular order of importance and you don't need any certificates or diplomas to fulfil these roles, just common sense and a stout pair of boots. Nor do you need to put in an 8-hour day, as the minimum time commitment is only 1 1/2 to 2 hours once a week.

Leading of Ponies & Horses

Providing you are fairly fit (meaning you can walk briskly without collapsing in a gasping heap), can hold onto a lead rein without dropping it and are not afraid of the eating-end of a pony, then this is a relatively easy job. Obviously previous experience with horses is an advantage but raw beginners soon get the hang of it - especially once they have been trodden on and nibbled a couple of times.

Side-helpers

Primarily the same requirements as above except that your job is to stop whoever is on the horse from falling off. You work in pairs, one each side of the horse. This assistance ranges from supporting the very disabled (who may be undergoing a course of hippotherapy and  have to lie flat on the back of the pony), or offering a supporting hand to a person with balance problems, or just being ready to stabilise the more able if over confidence causes them to slip.

Tacking and un-tacking the ponies

Prior to riders arriving and after they have departed, the ponies have to be  groomed, tacked-up or untacked, rugged-up and turned out into the paddocks. All of this takes time, especially if it is a group lesson. If you can already carry out these tasks, or if you are prepared to learn, then  please get in touch.

Anyone wishing to help please contact Jane Barker