Equestrian Centre Instructor (non-ridden activities) in Warwick

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.

The RDA Instructor (Non-Ridden Activities) is responsible for the planning, coordination, and delivery of engaging and inclusive equine-facilitated learning (EFL) and non‑ridden sessions at Lowlands Equestrian Centre. The role focuses on supporting individuals with disabilities through meaningful equine-based activities, ensuring a safe, structured, and person-centred approach.

Key Responsibilities

• Session Delivery: Plan and deliver all Equine Facilitated Learning (EFL) and non‑ridden activities, ensuring sessions are safe, inclusive, and purposeful. Lead sessions that promote confidence, communication, independence, and wellbeing. Ensure all activities are aligned with RDA values and best practice.
• Session Planning: Design and implement structured session plans tailored to the needs, abilities, and goals of each participant. Adapt activities to suit a wide range of physical, cognitive, and emotional needs.
• Individualised Support: Structure non‑ridden sessions to meet individual needs, ensuring each participant is appropriately supported and challenged. Monitor progress and adjust activities to support development and engagement.
• Horse Allocation: Allocate suitable horses for non‑ridden activities based on participant needs and abilities, and horse temperament and suitability. Ensure horses are used appropriately and their welfare is maintained.
• Record Keeping: Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date session records, including attendance, participant progress and observations, and any incidents or concerns.
• Volunteer Training & Support: Identify, train, and support volunteers involved in non‑ridden sessions. Provide clear guidance and instruction to ensure safe and effective session delivery. Promote best practice and consistency in volunteer support.
• Health, Safety & Welfare: Ensure all sessions are delivered in line with health and safety policies and RDA guidelines. Monitor the welfare of both participants and horses, taking appropriate action when required. Complete and adhere to relevant risk assessments.

Person Specification

Essential Criteria:

• Experience of delivering activities in a disability or therapeutic setting.
• Strong understanding of inclusive practice and supporting individuals with additional needs.
• Ability to plan and deliver structured, person‑centred sessions.
• Experience of working with and training volunteers.
• Good organisational and record‑keeping skills.
• Awareness of health and safety and safeguarding requirements.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Desirable Criteria:

• Relevant qualification in Equine Facilitated Learning, RDA coaching, education, or therapy.
• Experience of working within an RDA‑approved centre.
• First Aid and safeguarding training.
• Background in education, care, or therapy.
• Knowledge of equine behaviour and welfare, particularly in non‑ridden contexts.

Personal Attributes:

• Patient, empathetic, and inclusive approach.
• Creative and adaptable in session delivery.
• Confident and supportive leader.
• Calm and observant, with strong attention to individual needs.
• Reliable and well‑organised.
• Committed to promoting wellbeing, inclusion, and high welfare standards.