Riding Instructor

Provides individual therapeutic goals & objectives for students through planning and organizing activities and motivating students to fully participate at his/her optimal level while they are horseback riding. 

• Demonstrates knowledge of a variety of individual and group barn activities and the ability to lead these activities according to student’s functional levels while they are horseback riding as directed by the Therapeutic Equestrian Facility Supervisor.
• Knowledge of the basic principles and techniques of therapeutic equine recreation.
• Knowledge of the types and uses of materials & equipment used in equine activities
• Knowledge of safety practices and procedures followed in general equine activities
• Demonstrates knowledge and skills regarding age specific physiological changes, developmental needs, adapted equipment and wheelchair safety.
• Demonstrates knowledge of principles of growth and development over the life span and interprets the appropriate information needed to identify each student’s requirements related to age specific needs.
• Demonstrates knowledge of motivational and reinforcement techniques in the area of horseback riding.
• Opening, closing & severe weather procedures ofTherapeuticEquestrianCenter.
• Assists in the educational and social development of students under the direction and guidance of the Therapeutic Equestrian Facility Supervisor.
• Confers with the Therapeutic Equestrian Facility Supervisor. on a regular basis for the purpose of assisting in evaluating students’ progress towards riding objectives
• Follows the guidelines established for the care and maintenance of the horses, thereby providing an optimal environment for their participation in riding sessions.
• Assists the barn staff in addressing students needs for the purpose of allowing students to understand cultural issues and life skills needed to successfully integrate into the program environment
• Encourages staff & volunteers in assisting the students independence in all phases of his/her program
• Instructs staff & volunteers in a variety of activities of individual and group settings (e.g. barn activities, social skills, daily living skills, etc.) for the purpose of reinforcing instructional objectives and individual educational program goals and ensuring students success in the program
• Monitors volunteers and students during assigned periods within the barn environments (e.g. barn activity areas, indoor, rest rooms, hallways, special events, transportation and other area parking lots, etc.) for the purpose of providing a safe and positive learning environment
• Supports students with emotional or behavior concerns and assist them in developing appropriate social skills

• Massachusetts Riding Instructors License.
• Working towards a PATH Riding Instructors License.
• Experience working in an equine setting in a recognized public or private agency
• Working in an equine setting with 5+ year’s experience.
• Experience with children and young adults with physically disabilities
• Knowledge of the special needs of students who have behavioral, learning, or physical disabilities