Achieving success on horseback – training in the equestrian industry

This updating is a reaction to new knowledge relating to the upkeep, care and training of horses, whereas the new specialisms also reflect developments which have altered the requirements for skilled workers within the equine management sector – such as the increased interest in special forms of riding. The new training regualtions enter into force on August 1, 2010.

During the first two years of training, all trainees begin by learning how to keep and feed horses properly and by studying equine healthcare and basic horse training. The specific contents relating to the respective specialism are subsequently delivered during the third year of training. The training occupation also covers business procedures and the general business administration environment.

Whereas classical riding training and the special forms of riding focus mainly on horse and rider, the specialism of horse racing places the emphasis on training the animals and preparing for races. The specialism of horse husbandry and service centres on customer advisory services and on the customer oriented operation of riding facilities. As well as reproduction and the breeding process itself, the specialism of horse breeding also encompasses showing horses at breeding shows and on examinations. Places of employment for equine managers include riding schools, riding associations, horse racing stables, horse stabling facilities and stud farms.

879 young people – 158 men and 721 women – concluded a training contract in 2009. These contracts were agreed under the terms of the old training regulations for the occupation which had been drawn up 35 years previously. This put the training occupation of equine manager in 99th place on the "ranking list" of all training qualifications in Germany.