Riding instructor

What does a riding instructor do? – Tasks and work environment

A riding instructor is responsible for educating and guiding riders at various levels, from beginners to more advanced students. Tasks include planning and conducting riding lessons, adapting teaching to individual needs, and ensuring the well-being and safety of the horses during lessons. Riding instructors often work both indoors in riding halls and outdoors on riding arenas, with a work environment characterized by physical activity, changing weather, and close contact with both people and animals. The profession also involves administrative tasks, such as scheduling and communication with students and parents.

Salary development over time

The salary of a riding instructor has shown steady positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,300 SEK per month, increasing to 34 100 SEK in 2023 and further to 34 900 SEK in 2024. This represents an increase of approximately 4.8% over the period. The driving factors behind the salary development include increased demand for qualified instructors, especially within the growing youth activities in equestrian sports, and an overall improved salary policy within the sports sector. Despite the increase, salary levels remain comparable to other instructor professions, but the slow yet steady rise indicates that the profession’s importance and skill requirements are gaining greater recognition in the job market.

Riding instructor salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 34 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,300 SEK/month (male, private sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 39,000 SEK/month (male, private sector, secondary education)
• Highest salary for women: 36,600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary for women: 28,000 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 210 SEK
• Women earn: 34 200 SEK/month (96% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 35 700 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a riding instructor, a combination of practical experience in equestrian sports and formal education is usually required. Many choose to undertake instructor training through the Swedish Equestrian Federation or folk high schools specializing in horses and riding. The training covers pedagogy, horse knowledge, and safety, with practical experience at riding schools often included as an essential part. Qualifications can also be strengthened through further education and various certifications within equestrian sports.

• Formal qualifications: Riding instructor training via folk high school or the Swedish Equestrian Federation (1–2 years)
• Certifications: Swedish Equestrian Federation's instructor and trainer licenses
• Practical experience: Mandatory internship at a riding school or club
• Prerequisites: Documented riding experience and basic horse knowledge
• Tips for choosing: Combine formal education with voluntary engagement for broader experience

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to base salary, riding instructors often receive benefits such as subsidized stable space for their own horse, wellness allowances, and opportunities for further training in equestrian sports and pedagogy. Some employers also offer flexible working hours, work clothing, and insurance covering accidents and injuries related to work.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a riding instructor varies depending on region and season, but overall demand remains stable due to the strong interest in equestrian sports in Sweden. Challenges in the profession include irregular working hours, physical strain, and responsibility for the safety of both students and horses. The work can also be mentally demanding, requiring high pedagogical skills and conflict management. To stand out in the job market, broad competence, experience, and sometimes specialization in disciplines such as jumping or dressage are often necessary.

Tips for those wanting to become a riding instructor

To succeed as a riding instructor, it is beneficial to combine a genuine interest in horses with pedagogical skills and patience. Good communication and clarity aid lesson planning and giving instructions to riders at different levels. Flexibility and stress resistance are important qualities, especially since the work often involves late evenings and weekend shifts. Engagement in youth activities within equestrian sports provides valuable experience and networks. Continuously furthering education, such as through courses or clinics, enhances both competence and employability. Good judgment and a sense of responsibility are crucial for creating a safe environment for both students and horses. Finally, teamwork skills facilitate collaboration at riding schools and clubs.

Key facts about Riding Instructor

• Average salary: 34 900 SEK/month
• Education pathway: Riding instructor training 1–2 years, practical experience required
• Work environment: Physically active, outdoors and indoors, close to animals
• Demand: 434 available jobs within the profession
• Gender salary gap: Women earn 96% of men's salaries

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a riding instructor, career development can lead to more specialized roles, such as riding teacher at a higher level, trainer in specific disciplines like jumping or dressage, or as a operations manager at a riding school. Some choose to further their education to become a hippologist, horse caretaker with specialized skills, or start their own business in the equestrian industry. The Swedish Employment Service’s forecasts indicate continued strong demand for riding instructors, especially as riding schools expand and the need for qualified leaders increases. The number of available positions within the profession is 434, suggesting good employment opportunities.

Frequently asked questions about Riding Instructor

• What is the average salary of a riding instructor?
  - The average salary for a riding instructor is 34 900 SEK per month.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a riding instructor?
  - The highest salary is 39,000 SEK per month, and the lowest is 27,300 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 34 200 SEK and men 35 700 SEK, which means women earn 96% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a riding instructor?
  - Usually, riding instructor training via a folk high school or the Swedish Equestrian Federation, along with practical experience.
• What is the job market like for riding instructors?
  - Demand is stable with 434 available jobs within the profession.
• What is the hourly wage for a riding instructor?
  - The average hourly wage is 210 SEK.
• What benefits are common in the profession?
  - Benefits include wellness allowances, subsidized stable space, and work clothing.