Staff shortages threaten future of children’s riding lessons

A crisis in the equestrian workforce is taking many riding schools to the brink of collapse 

Parents of children wanting to learn to ride are finding it increasingly difficult to book lessons as demand outstrips availability, with staff shortages the main reason behind the riding school crisis.

The British Horse Society (BHS) has revealed that 75% of riding centres are struggling to hire the staff they need to run at full capacity. With a lack of qualified coaches and long waiting lists of youngsters wanting to learn, riding schools are at breaking point and this is having an impact on participation in equestrian activities.

The Prince’s Trust, aimed at supporting those wanting to gain essential skills for work or to start a business, has reported that more than two thirds of 18–24-year-olds have changed their career expectations, with the cost of living being one of their biggest concerns. Unfortunately, this will lead to fewer people choosing a career with horses, thereby causing even more riding schools to close due to staff shortages.

So far, the BHS has seen a loss of 1.5 million opportunities that allow children to benefit from the strong companionship and emotional support that every horse provides.

James Hick, chief executive at the BHS, said: “Demand to attend a riding school and connect with horses has never been stronger, with most centres reporting a waiting list of 50 clients or more. But, without the qualified coaches and yard staff needed to run these centres, this demand is just not going to be fulfilled.”

To help support and protect the future equestrian workforce and combat the staff crisis, the BHS has developed a Career Transition Fund to provide financial support to students training for their equine qualifications.

To read the full story or find out more about the Career Transition Fund, visit bhs.org.uk/KeepBritainRiding