Riding school instructor

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

A riding school instructor is responsible for leading and planning riding lessons for students at various levels, from beginners to more experienced riders. Tasks include teaching riding, conveying knowledge about horse care, safety, and horse handling, as well as developing students' skills and confidence in the saddle. The instructor also handles administrative tasks, course planning, and sometimes managing horses and stable chores. The work environment is varied and can involve indoor riding arenas and outdoor riding areas, often under changing weather conditions and with irregular hours, including evenings and weekends.

Salary development over time

The salary of riding school instructors has shown a steady and slightly increasing trend over recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,300 SEK per month, which increased to 34 100 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary further increased to 34 900 SEK. This represents a total increase of approximately 4.8% over three years. The salary growth reflects increased demand for qualified instructors, as well as a general salary increase within the sports and leisure sector. Gender pay gaps remain, with women earning about 96% of men's average salary. Regional differences may occur depending on the geographic location and size of the workplace, but overall, the salary trend is positive and indicates a stable job market for the profession.

Riding school instructor salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 34 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,300 SEK/month (male), 28,000 SEK/month (female)
• Highest salary: 39,000 SEK/month (male), 36,600 SEK/month (female)
• Hourly wage (average): 210 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 96% of what men do (men: 35 700 SEK, women: 34 200 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and employer

Education and qualifications

To work as a riding school instructor, a combination of formal education and practical experience in the horse industry is usually required. Many instructors have completed high school with a focus on horses or further training through the Swedish Equestrian Federation. Certifications and advanced courses are often meritorious and sometimes a requirement from employers. Internships at riding schools are common as part of the educational pathway.

• Formal education: High school with a horse focus, 3 years
• Certifications: Swedish Riding Instructor I, II, or III through the Swedish Equestrian Federation
• Internship: Work-based learning at riding schools
• Courses: Further training in riding pedagogy and safety
• Pre-requisites: Good riding skills and experience in horse handling

Common benefits and compensations

Riding school instructors are often offered benefits such as work clothing, wellness allowances, and sometimes the opportunity for personal riding or further education within the profession. Many employment contracts include insurance, occupational pension, and favorable conditions for participating in training or courses that enhance the instructor's skills.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a riding school instructor can be relatively high, especially in urban areas where many seek the profession. Challenges include physically demanding tasks and irregular working hours, which can affect work environment and work-life balance. The profession also requires a high level of responsibility for safety for both students and horses, as well as the ability to handle diverse student groups and tailor instruction accordingly. Despite increasing demand for qualified instructors, continuous professional development is essential to meet new requirements within equestrian sports and pedagogy.

Tips for those aspiring to become a riding school instructor

To succeed as a riding school instructor, it is good to combine strong pedagogical skills with a genuine interest in horses and riding. Patience and attentiveness help when teaching students at different levels, while good communication skills facilitate creating trust and motivation. Engagement in club activities and a willingness to continually develop knowledge in horse handling increase employment opportunities. Being flexible and capable of handling unforeseen situations is also important, as the work can be demanding and varied. Finally, actively seeking internships and networking within the equestrian community can help build experience and contacts.

Key facts about riding school instructors

• Education level: High school with a horse focus, supplemented with certification
• Work environment: Varied, often both indoors and outdoors, sometimes with irregular hours
• Common employment type: Permanent or hourly employment at riding schools/associations
• Demand: 434 available jobs within the field according to current data
• Special skills: Riding pedagogy, safety work, and horse handling

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, many riding school instructors have the opportunity to advance to responsible roles such as head instructor, training manager, or stable manager. Some choose to further their education to level II or III riding instructor, which can open doors to more specialized tasks or work at larger facilities. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, demand for riding school instructors remains stable, with good employment prospects for those combining experience with further education. Digitalization and increased focus on safety and pedagogy may further increase the demand for additional competencies. Regionally, job availability may vary, but overall, the job market is viewed as positive for the coming years.

Frequently asked questions about riding school instructors

• What does a riding school instructor earn?
  - The average salary is 34 900 SEK per month, with variations between 27,300 SEK and 39,000 SEK depending on experience and region.
• What education is required to become a riding school instructor?
  - Usually, high school with a focus on horses and certification as a riding instructor through the Swedish Equestrian Federation.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 96% of what men do in the profession.
• What is the job market like for riding school instructors?
  - Demand is stable with over 400 available jobs in the field currently.
• What personal qualities are important for the profession?
  - Pedagogical skills, patience, good communication, and a strong engagement with horses are central.
• What are the job responsibilities of a riding school instructor?
  - Leading riding lessons, teaching horse care and safety, as well as planning and managing courses.
• Are there opportunities for further education?
  - Yes, several advanced courses and higher certifications are offered within equestrian sports.