How to become a horse riding instructor
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- specialist courses run by professional bodies
College
You could take a course at college that will give you some of the skills and knowledge to get into this role.
Relevant courses include:
- Level 2 Certificate in Horse Care
- Level 3 Diploma in Equine Management
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
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Apprenticeship
You may be able to start through an intermediate equine groom or senior equine groom advanced apprenticeship.
Once you complete your apprenticeship, you could apply for jobs as a riding instructor's assistant and take further coaching qualifications on the job.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
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Volunteering
Volunteering and seasonal work at a local stables or riding centre can be a good way to get started.
Other Routes
You can complete training and pass exams with the British Horse Society (BHS) or Association of British Riding Schools (ABRS).
You'll need to be a member of the BHS to follow their Coaching Pathway. You can train for the Stage 3 Coach award to qualify as a riding instructor.
The ABRS training route and practical exams include:
- an Initial Teaching Test
- a UK Coaching Certificate
You do not need to be a member of the ABRS to take their exams.
You can also complete other specialist instructor awards through organisations like the Pony Club.
You can work with people with disabilities by following the Riding for the Disabled Association's Coaching Pathway.
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Further information
You'll find more advice about becoming a riding instructor from the: