At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead engaging riding sessions and ensure safety for all participants.
- Company: Join the Riding for the Disabled Association, a pioneer in equine therapy.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, competitive salary, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive community making a lasting impact.
- Why this job: Empower disabled individuals through the therapeutic bond with horses.
- Qualifications: Experience in coaching or working with diverse groups is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 40582 - 49600 £ per year.
At Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA), we enrich lives through the unique bond between people and horses.
Each year, we support over 39,000 disabled children and adults through activities including riding, carriage driving, and equine assisted programmes such as Quiet Corners and Tea with a Pony.
We are pioneers in the therapeutic use of horses, leaders in disability sport, and the only major UK charity focused specifically on the health and wellbeing benefits of bringing people and horses together.
We welcome people of all ages and abilities, including those with physical and learning disabilities, sensory impairments, long-term health conditions, and neurodiversity.
With 24% of the UK population classified as disabled, we make a lasting impact through the therapeutic power of horses.
JOB DESCRIPTION Job
Title: RDA Coach Reports to : Centre Manager Based at: Lowlands Equestrian Centre, Warwickshire
Hours: Flexible working available: This role is advertised as 30 hours per week, Tuesday to Saturday , but we're happy to consider flexible working patterns.
The role can be shared between two or more people, so we'd encourage you to apply even if you can't work all the hours advertised.
Contract
Type: Permanent Salary : £24,947 Role Purpose The RDA Coach is responsible for the planning, coordination, and delivery of safe, effective, and engaging sessions at Lowlands Equestrian Centre.
The Coach role ensures that all sessions meet the needs of disabled riders while maintaining high standards of equine welfare, volunteer support, and compliance with RDA guidelines.
Key Responsibilities Session Delivery
- Lead and deliver all ridden sessions, ensuring they are safe, inclusive, and tailored to individual rider needs.
- Lead other activities at the centre when needed.
- Complete session risk assessments and retain responsibility for maintaining safety throughout.
- Take overall responsibility for the effective running of sessions, including setup, delivery, and close-down.
- Ensure all sessions align with RDA standards and best practice.
- Coordination of volunteers to ensure adequate support for participants.
- Session Planning
- Plan structured and progressive ridden sessions to support rider development and enjoyment.
- Adapt session plans to meet the varying abilities and goals of riders.
- Contribute to the overall activity plan, identifying ways to increase efficiency, session quality and volume.
- Assessment
RDA Coach employer: Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA)
At Riding for the Disabled Association, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to enriching lives through the unique bond between people and horses. Our supportive work culture fosters collaboration and innovation, offering employees opportunities for personal and professional growth while making a meaningful impact in the community. Located in the picturesque Warwickshire at the Lowlands Equestrian Centre, we provide a hybrid working option, ensuring a healthy work-life balance as you contribute to our mission of enhancing the wellbeing of disabled individuals through equine activities.
Contact Details:
Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land RDA Coach
✨Connect Through Professional Networks
Join associations related to therapy and counselling, like the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). They often have job boards, events, and forums where you can meet potential employers and like-minded professionals. Being active in these spaces can give you a significant edge.
✨Show Up at Local Mental Health Events
Look for workshops, seminars, and conferences focused on mental health in your area. Not only can you learn valuable insights, but you can also network with professionals who might be aware of full-time opportunities, like the ones at Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA). Plus, showing your passion for the field in person can leave a lasting impression.
✨Utilise Online Platforms Tailored to Counselling
Websites like TherapyJobs or Indeed specifically cater to therapy professionals. Make sure to check these regularly for new listings, and consider setting up alerts to stay ahead of the game. Plus, applying directly through these platforms can sometimes give you better visibility.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you’re recently graduated or still in school, don't forget to tap into your university's career resources. They often have exclusive listings for full-time positions and can help you refine your interview skills. Plus, they might connect you with alumni who’re already working at places like Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA).
We think you need these skills to ace RDA Coach
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Qualifications:Make sure to showcase any relevant qualifications you've completed, such as a degree in psychology or counselling certifications. This is super important in the therapy and counselling field, so don’t skip over these details in your CV.
Showcase Your Empathy Skills:In your cover letter, it's essential to demonstrate your empathy and communication skills, which are key in therapy. Share specific examples from your previous experiences where you've effectively helped someone through a tough time—this will make your application stand out.
Demonstrate Your Continued Learning:We love seeing candidates who are committed to ongoing professional development. Mention any workshops, seminars, or additional training you’ve attended recently. This not only boosts your CV but shows your passion for the field.
Personalise Your Application for Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA):Take some time to research Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) and reflect this understanding in your application. Explain why you’re interested in working with them specifically and how your values align with their approach—this personal touch can make all the difference!
How to prepare for a job interview at Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA)
✨Show Your Empathy and Communication Skills
In therapy and counselling, it's all about how well you connect with others. Be ready to share examples of how you've demonstrated empathy, active listening, and non-verbal communication in past experiences. Your ability to create rapport with clients is key, so let that shine through!
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face some scenario-based questions that assess your practical skills in dealing with clients. Think of various client situations or challenges you've encountered or could encounter. Practice how you would respond, ensuring you highlight your problem-solving abilities and therapeutic techniques.
✨Highlight Your Continuing Education
Being in a full-time role in therapy means you need to stay updated with the latest techniques and theories. Mention any professional development courses you've taken recently, or plans you have for ongoing education. This shows that you’re committed to growth in your field and eager to help your clients with the best approaches.
✨Finesse Your Personal Statement
In therapy, your personal statement is a chance to showcase who you are beyond your qualifications. Tailor it to not just highlight your credentials but also your passion for helping others. Share personal stories or insights that led you to this profession, reinforcing why you'd be a great fit for Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA)'s values and approach.