At a Glance
- Tasks: Care for rescued horses and ponies, ensuring their wellbeing and rehabilitation.
- Company: Join The Mare and Foal Sanctuary, the largest equine charity in the South West.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension, health programme, and on-site parking.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team dedicated to equine care and rehabilitation.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of horses while working outdoors.
- Qualifications: Experience with horses, basic IT skills, and a passion for animal welfare.
The predicted salary is between 24831 - 24831 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity has arisen to join our friendly team at The Mare and Foal Sanctuary as a Horse Care Team Member supporting the daily care, welfare, rehabilitation and training of rescued horses and ponies.
We have a fantastic new job opportunity for a Horse Care Team Member to join a dedicated sanctuary care team supporting rescued horses and ponies through rehabilitation and recovery. As a Horse Care Team Member you will work closely with experienced equine professionals to deliver the highest standards of horse care, welfare monitoring and daily yard duties within a physically active outdoor role. This position offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute directly to equine welfare, supporting training plans, maintaining accurate records and ensuring a safe, supportive environment for animals in care.
DUTIES
- Daily Horse Care: Providing high standards of care for horses and ponies, including feeding, grooming and general wellbeing
- Stable and Yard Management: Completing routine stable duties and maintaining grassland and yard areas
- Health Monitoring: Observing and reporting changes in horse health and behaviour
- Exercise Support: Assisting with safe exercise and rehabilitation activities
- Training Assistance: Supporting tailored training and rehabilitation plans
- Record Keeping: Updating horse records accurately using in-house IT systems
- Team Collaboration: Working closely with colleagues to ensure consistent care standards
- Health And Safety: Following all safety procedures when working with animals and equipment
CANDIDATE REQUIREMENTS
ESSENTIAL
- Previous experience in caring for horses or ponies
- Ability to carry out standard yard duties including grooming, feeding and stable management
- Confidence working outdoors in all weather conditions
- Basic IT skills for record keeping and system updates
- A genuine passion for equine welfare and high standards of care
- Ability to work as part of a professional, supportive team
- Full UK driving licence
DESIRABLE
- Knowledge of equine behaviour and training
- Experience supporting rehabilitation or welfare programmes
ABOUT US
The Mare and Foal Sanctuary is the largest equine charity in the South West peninsula, dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming of horses and ponies in need. Based in Devon, the Sanctuary operates across four specialist sites, including a veterinary and welfare assessment centre. Alongside frontline equine care, the organisation delivers educational programmes for horse owners and works with a multidisciplinary equine assisted learning team. Compassion, professionalism and animal welfare sit at the heart of everything the Sanctuary does.
BENEFITS
- Company pension
- Cycle to work scheme
- Health and wellbeing programme
- On-site parking
- Sick pay
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to a DBS check.
HOW TO APPLY: To be considered for this job vacancy, please submit your CV to our Recruitment Team who will review your details.
Horse Care Team Member employer: The Mare and Foal Sanctuary
The Mare and Foal Sanctuary is an exceptional employer, offering a fulfilling opportunity for those passionate about equine welfare in the beautiful setting of Holsworthy, Devon. With a strong commitment to employee growth, a supportive work culture, and benefits such as a company pension and health programmes, team members can thrive while making a meaningful impact on the lives of rescued horses and ponies. Join us in a role where compassion and professionalism are at the forefront of our mission.
Contact Details:
The Mare and Foal Sanctuary Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Horse Care Team Member
✨Connect with Local Farmers and Co-ops
Don't underestimate the power of local connections in agriculture. Get involved in local farmers' markets or agricultural co-ops. These are great places to meet potential employers and get the inside scoop on job openings before they're even advertised.
✨Get Involved in Agricultural Events
Keep an eye out for agricultural fairs, conferences, and workshops in your area. These events are golden opportunities to network with industry professionals and showcase your passion. You might even stumble across job boards or companies actively looking to hire!
✨Volunteer for Relevant Experience
Consider volunteering with organisations focused on agriculture, sustainability, or community gardening. This not only boosts your CV but also expands your network. You never know who might be watching your hard work and dedication!
✨Keep an Eye on Job Listings at Industry-Specific Websites
Be sure to check out agriculture-focused job boards and websites regularly. Companies like The Mare and Foal Sanctuary often post opportunities on their own sites before anywhere else, so don’t miss out! Apply directly through us to increase your chances!
We think you need these skills to ace Horse Care Team Member
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
Certifications Matter:In agriculture, relevant certifications can really give your application a boost. If you have any qualifications related to agricultural practices, pest management, or environmental regulations, make sure to mention them! They're great indicators of your commitment and expertise in the field.
Tailor Your CV to the Agriculture Sector:Your CV should reflect your passion for agriculture. Structure it to emphasise your field experience and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Don't forget to highlight your soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which are essential in this sector.
Passion is Key in Your Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time position, we want to feel your enthusiasm for agriculture in your cover letter. Share why you're drawn to this industry and mention any long-term goals you have that align with what The Mare and Foal Sanctuary does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Mare and Foal Sanctuary
✨Get Familiar with Agricultural Technologies
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest agricultural technologies and tools that are commonly used in the field. Whether it’s precision farming tools or crop management software, being able to discuss these effectively during your interview with The Mare and Foal Sanctuary will show that you're technically savvy and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Since agriculture is a hands-on industry, be prepared to share any practical experiences you've had. This could be through internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects. Discussing specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them can really impress the interviewers, especially in a full-time role at The Mare and Foal Sanctuary.
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a hot topic in agriculture right now, so it's important to understand current practices and regulations in the industry. Familiarise yourself with concepts like crop rotation, organic farming, and environmental impact. Having informed opinions on these topics can set you apart from other candidates during your interview.
✨Practice Common Industry Scenarios
Expect to tackle a few scenario-based questions that mimic real-life challenges in agriculture. For instance, you might be asked how you would handle a pest infestation or manage resources during a drought. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and showcase your problem-solving skills during the interview with The Mare and Foal Sanctuary.