Therapeutic Riding Coach

Role: Equine-Assisted Activities/Therapeutic Riding Instructor

Location: Grace Park road, Drumcondra, Dublin 9

Hours: 39 per week (roster based: Tuesday-Saturday /flexible time: weekend work will be required /no overtime, or late nights)

Contract Type: Permanent

Job Description:
As an Equine-Assisted Activities/Therapeutic Riding Instructor, you will be responsible for planning, running, and evaluating therapeutic sessions involving horses. You will deliver your own therapeutic sessions to a variety of clients Additionally, you will train and care for the horses involved in the therapy program, ensuring they are well-prepared for their role in the sessions. This is a physical and highly rewarding position, requiring dedication, enthusiasm, and a strong commitment to helping others. Full training in delivering Therapeutic Riding, working with people with disabilities and the HorseBoy Method will be provided.

Here maybe we should add something about the new development at the unit and how the service will expand over the next while

Key Responsibilities:

• Run Equine Assisted Activity Sessions: Lead individual and group sessions, adapting approaches based on client needs and goals.
• Session Planning & Evaluation: Develop and plan therapeutic activities in collaboration with other team members. Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of sessions, adjusting as needed to maximize client benefit.
• Horse Training & Care: Ensure that all therapy horses are appropriately trained, well-cared for, and safe to work with clients. This will involve lunging, in-hand work for which all training will be given.
• Team Collaboration: Work as part of a small team in Equine and part of the larger organizational structure.
• Record Keeping: Maintain accurate and up-to-date client records, session notes, and evaluations as required.

Key Requirements:

• Qualifications Coaching qualification either HSI or BHS
• Physical Fitness: Ability to work at a physical job and working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Enthusiastic & Compassionate: A genuine passion for working with people and horses, with a positive and supportive attitude.
• Team Player: Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively within a team environment.
• Adaptability: Ability to tailor therapy sessions to meet individual client needs and adjust to varying challenges.

Working pupil

Job Description:
As a Working Pupil at the ChildVision Equine Unit, you will support our Equine-Assisted Activities programs and gain invaluable experience in the field of therapeutic riding. This is an exciting opportunity to develop your skills while working with horses and assisting children and adults with additional needs. You will receive training from experienced professionals, with the chance to progress in your career in Equine-Assisted Activities and therapeutic riding through being supported to take BHS/HIS exams, therapeutic riding coaching training and Horseboy method training if desired.

Key Responsibilities:

• Horse Handling & Care: Assist with the daily care and management of the horses, including feeding, grooming, mucking out, and ensuring their well-being. Including take sole responsibility of the horses at weekend duties when clients are not around.
• Supporting Sessions: Help lead and assist in Equine-Assisted Activities sessions, supporting the instructor and the participants.
• Equine-Assisted Activities: Work directly with clients (children and adults) in various therapeutic riding activities, providing support and ensuring safety throughout the session.
• Learning & Development: Participate in ongoing training and development in Equine-Assisted Activities and therapeutic riding techniques.
• Team Collaboration: Work alongside a dedicated team of professionals to ensure the smooth operation of the Equine Unit.

Key Requirements:

• Basic Horse Knowledge: A good basic knowledge of horses and handling, including riding skills.
• Qualifications: BHS Stage 1 or equivalent qualification.
• Desire to Work with People: A genuine interest in working with children and adults with additional needs, demonstrating patience and empathy.
• Physical Fitness: The ability to engage in physical tasks related to horse care, assisting in sessions, and working outdoors.
• Team Player: Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively within a team.
• Enthusiasm & Willingness to Learn: A passion for equine-assisted activities and a strong desire to develop your career in this area.

What We Offer:

• An opportunity to develop BHS exam qualifications
• A permanent, full-time position with the opportunity to develop your skills and career in Equine-Assisted Activities and therapeutic riding from experienced coaches and the opportunity to achieve relevant qualifications in this area.
• Hands-on experience working with a range of horses and clients with additional needs.
• Opportunity for career progression in the field of therapeutic riding and equine-assisted activities.

Other Requirements:

Full Clean Driving License

Terms & Conditions:

Reports to:

Equine Manager

Probation:

A probationary period of 6 months applies.

Annual leave:

Annual leave entitlement is 30 days (pro rata), plus 2 privilege days

Pension Scheme:

ChildVision operates a contributory pension scheme, which all employees may join.

Garda Clearance/ Police Clearance:

These will be required for all prospective employees who will undertake relevant work or activities relating to children or vulnerable persons. This will include any state outside of Ireland where the candidate has resided for a period of 6 months or more.

Pay:

Salary Scale Range € 32,124 - € 47,750 (based on experience)