An equine specialist is an expert in horse care, health, and management. This career involves working with horses in a variety of settings such as stables, riding schools, veterinary practices, and equestrian sports venues. Equine specialists may focus on areas such as nutrition, rehabilitation, exercise, breeding, or health and welfare. Daily tasks often include feeding, grooming, monitoring health, assisting with medical treatments, and sometimes training horses. To become an equine specialist, you usually need relevant qualifications in animal care or equine studies, and hands-on experience is highly valued. This is a physically demanding role that requires a genuine passion for working with animals and a good understanding of equine behaviour and needs.
Equine specialists in the UK typically earn between £18,000 and £35,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications.
There are around 200,000 people employed in the wider equine industry across the UK, with specialist roles available in veterinary practices, stables, and equestrian centres.
The UK equine industry is estimated to contribute over £4.7 billion to the economy annually.
Assists vets in caring for horses, helping with medical procedures, routine care, and monitoring equine health.
Focuses on the physical rehabilitation of horses, using exercises and therapies to improve mobility and aid recovery from injury.
Advises horse owners and trainers on the best diets and feeding plans to keep horses healthy and performing well.
Take relevant GCSEs or equivalent qualifications, such as Biology and Animal Care, to build a strong understanding of animal science.
Good grades in science subjects, especially Biology, will help you understand the basics of animal welfare and physiology. Some schools offer animal care or land-based studies as part of their curriculum, which can provide practical experience. It is also helpful to get involved with any local pony clubs or equestrian events to gain hands-on exposure.
Volunteer or work part-time at riding stables, equestrian centres, or animal shelters to gain hands-on experience with horses.
Experience handling and caring for horses is essential in this field. Many stables and equestrian centres offer volunteering opportunities for young people. Tasks may include feeding, grooming, mucking out stables, and assisting with horse exercise. This experience will help you decide which area of equine work interests you most.
Decide whether you want to specialise in therapy, behaviour, training, or equine healthcare, as each path requires different skills and qualifications.
For example, if you want to work in equine therapy or behaviour, you might pursue courses in animal behaviour or psychology. If you are interested in healthcare, consider veterinary nursing or equine science. Research accredited courses and speak to professionals in your chosen area for guidance.
Study for further qualifications such as a Level 3 Diploma in Horse Management, Equine Science degree, or specific certifications in equine therapy or behaviour.
Colleges and universities across the UK offer a range of equine-related courses. BHS (British Horse Society) qualifications, City & Guilds, or LANTRA awards are well recognised in the industry. For some specialisms, a university degree may be needed, while others value practical diplomas or apprenticeships.
Apply for roles in equine therapy, training, behaviour, or healthcare, or consider starting your own equine services business.
Job opportunities can be found at equestrian centres, riding schools, therapy practices, veterinary clinics, or private stables. You might also offer freelance services, such as equine massage, rehabilitation, or behavioural consultations. Continuing professional development and networking within the equine industry can help you progress.
Attend workshops, courses, and conferences to stay updated and enhance your skills.
The equine industry values ongoing learning. Organisations like the British Horse Society, Society of Master Saddlers, or Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Animal Therapy offer short courses and CPD opportunities. Keeping up with the latest research and best practice will help you provide the best care for horses and progress in your career.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Equine Specialist. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
An Equine Specialist typically has in-depth knowledge of horse behaviour, training, and care, which aligns closely with the skills required to train racehorses. Both roles involve applying specialised expertise to optimise horse performance and well-being, making them the most comparable among the provided options.
You can get into this job through:
You can work towards this role by doing a senior equine groom advanced apprenticeship.
This will usually take at least 18 months to complete.
There are no set entry requirements but it may help you to get in if you have:
You could work at a racing stables as a groom, a rider or instructor. You would then move on to become an assistant trainer before applying for the full trainer's licence.
As an assistant trainer, you could do a 3-day course at The British Racing School or National Horseracing College, which includes:
If you have a lot of experience in a stables, you could complete the Level 3 Diploma in Work Based Racehorse Care and the trainer's pre-licence preparation course.
You could then apply for a trainer's licence from the British Horseracing Authority.
You can find out more about about working in horse racing from careersinracing.
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