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Supported Helper Programme (SHP) Facilitator 

Supported Helper Programme (SHP) Facilitator 

Programme Background:

As part of its commitment to social inclusion for people with disabilities, Festina Lente Equestrian Learning Centre offers a variety of equine-based programmes. One such initiative is the Supported Helpers Programme—a unique opportunity designed for children, teenagers, and adults to engage with and learn about horses in a way that aligns with their individual interests, strengths, and abilities. This programme fosters confidence, connection, and personal growth in an inclusive and supportive environment.

Position Title: Supported Helper Programme (SHP) Facilitator

Position Description: To support young people and adults with an intellectual and/or physical disability to acquire the necessary skills, knowledge and understanding necessary to help in an equestrian environment with an aim to build confidence, self – esteem, independence and teamwork.

Department Name: Equestrian Learning Centre

Reporting to: Head of Equine Assisted Services

Based at: Festina Lente Equestrian Learning Centre. The primary base for the position will be in our HQ at Old Connaught Avenue, Bray, Co Wicklow (relocating to Kilpedder, Co. Wicklow in 2 to 4 years).

Contract Type: Full-time Permanent, 39hr week (Monday to Friday)

Position Goals: As part of the programme faculty, individualised facilitation of the programme modules in support of student learners, in a number of areas of equine care and stable care.

Key Duties and Responsibilities
The Supported Helper Programme (SHP) Facilitator is responsible for the effective facilitation of the programme including

Supported Helpers Programme Facilitation

To support each young person and adult in maximising their personal independence and social and emotional competencies during their time in the Supported Helpers Programme,
To act as an advocate for each Supported Helpers in the programme.
 

 

Communication

To liaise with the Equestrian Facilitated Education Programme (EFEP) and other Supported Helper Programme Facilitators in relation to the preparation of activities,
To liaise with supported helper’s family members/guardians and/or support persons as appropriate,
To liaise with the Equestrian Learning Centre team to ensure the welfare and wellbeing of the horses.
Programme Projects

Assisting with the equine programme management team as they contribute to the overall strategic planning of Festina Lente Equestrian Learning Centre.
Programme Administration

To maintain and update supported helper records for learners in line with Festina Lentes Quality Assurance systems,
To liaise with the Programme Coordinator in the monitoring and assurance of programme quality.
Training and Development

Attending all designated equine, facilitation skills and disability awareness workshops in support of skills development,
Identify and address learning needs required in this role to further enhance programme facilitation within Festina Lente for supported helpers.
Active participation in team and staff meetings.
Health & Safety

Observe, report and take appropriate action on any matter which may be detrimental to student learners’ safety and wellbeing,
Complete incident reporting and near miss events,
Complete and review risk assessments, including the development of a positive risk management plan for student learners,
Adhere to all internal policies and procedures and to all relevant Health & Safety legislation.
 

 

Knowledge, skills and abilities
-Proven experience in programme facilitation, with particular focus on young adult learner engagement with additional needs and positive behaviour solutions in a learning environment,

-Proven ability to mentor and empower student learners with additional needs,

-Strong interpersonal and communication skills both individually and across a team setting,

-Ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse groups,

-Commitment to fostering a culture of social inclusion,

-Enjoys the outdoor environment and be physically able and fit for the strenuous nature of the post.

Education and experience

-A third level qualification in social care is desirable.

-Proven experience of working in the area of disability, mental health, youth work or another related field,

-Equestrian experience (min): proven experience of working with horses in a teaching environment in terms of horse behaviour,

Full and clean Irish driving licence.

Language: Fluent English

Work Authorisation: Ireland, required

Benefits of Employment:

Compensation: The salary will be commensurate with experience.

Benefits Include:

22 days’ annual leave
Access to a Personal Retirement Savings Account (PRSA) scheme
Access to professional training and continuous development programmes.
Access to Educational Support
Bike to work scheme
On-site parking
Closing date: 11th Jul 2025

Email CV plus cover letter to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. : +353879633348

https://www.festinalente.ie

Equal Opportunities Statement: Festina Lente is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, particularly those from diverse and underrepresented communities.

FESTINA LENTE CHILD PROTECTION POLICY / GARDA VETTING / MANDATORY DECLARATION Garda Vetting for all employees and volunteers is compulsory and those candidates invited for interview will be asked to complete a Garda Vetting form for submission at that time. The successful candidate will be provided with a copy of the Festina Lente Child Protection Policy and will be required to sign their acceptance of the contents of this document. A Mandatory Declaration Form must be signed in advance of commencement of employment.

 

Equestrian Training Programme (ETP) Additional Needs Facilitator 

Equestrian Training Programme (ETP) Additional Needs Facilitator 

Programme Background:

In partnership with KWETB, the Equestrian Training Programme is 2-year full time vocational training programme which enables the learner to develop the knowledge, skills and competence in a broad range of equine skills which will enable the student to work in a variety of equine sectors. Successful graduates will be awarded a QQI level 4 Major Award in Horsemanship.

We are seeking to recruit a suitably qualified person to support a young adult who learns best in low stimulation environments. You will be working with a highly intelligent and insightful individual who experiences the world with heightened sensory awareness, is deeply perceptive and thrives when their environment is calm, predictable and attuned to their sensory preferences. This role is ideal for someone who truly values neurodiversity and truly appreciates and understands that sensory sensitivity is merely a different way of processing the world around them.

Position Title: Equestrian Training Programme (ETP) Additional Needs Facilitator

Position Description: To facilitate the Equestrian Training Programme, ensuring the ongoing success and expansion of the programme in conjunction with the ELC department within Festina Lente.

Department Name: Equestrian Learning Centre

Reporting to: Equestrian Training Programme (ETP) Co-ordinator

Based at: Festina Lente Equestrian Learning Centre. The primary base for the position will be in our HQ at Old Connaught Avenue, Bray, Co Wicklow (relocating to Kilpedder, Co. Wicklow in 2 to 4 years).

Contract Type: Full-time Permanent, 39hr week (Monday to Friday)

Position Goals: As part of the programme faculty, individualised facilitation of the programme modules in support of student learners with additional and complex learning needs, safeguarding their participation and ultimate achievement of their QQ1 Level 4 Major Award in Horsemanship.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Equestrian Training Programme Facilitation

To deliver the Equestrian Training Programme on an individualised basis tailored to the learning needs and styles of student learners with additional and complex learning needs, including all yard-based activities, QQI modules and other activities as set out in the programme timetable, in conjunction with the Equestrian Training Programme Coordinator,
Developing, planning, implementing and reviewing individualised therapeutic interventions in the areas of social communication, sensory integration, emotional regulation, anxiety management, in support of the learning environment for students with additional and complex learning needs,
Together with the other members of the ETP facilitation team, co-deliver QQI training modules at level 4 on the National Framework of Qualifications, in conjunction with SOLAS and in accordance with the QQI validated programme descriptor,
To contribute towards the annual evaluation of the delivery of the training programme with respect to tailoring the learning experience to student learners with additional and complex learning needs.
Student and Stakeholder Engagement

To ensure student learners who join the programme with additional and complex learning needs have an opportunity to engage in fair and consistent assessment for the purpose of achieving the named QQI awards,
To provide a high standard of individualised support and intervention. This may include liaison with external services including advocating on behalf of students and their family where appropriate.
To collaborate with students with additional and complex needs, documenting all engagement, intervention, support plans, progress notes, reports referrals to agreed professional standards and communicate verbally and /or in writing the support/recommendations/intervention programmes to the team in line with agreed policies and procedures.
To liaise with the ETP Coordinator regarding the timing of transitions between the different modules of the programme from individualised delivery, progressing to classroom participation as appropriate.
Together with the wider student cohort, facilitate the additional support needed to enable student learners additional and complex learning needs to engage in monthly educational community-based activities and to ensure the health and safety of student learners during these off-site events in conjunction with the ELC,
To support student learners with additional and complex learning needs with career development and facilitate work enrichment placements for students,
To act as a mentor and advocate for student learners additional and complex learning needs involved in the programme to support them to achieve individual goals in collaboration with the ELC team,
To facilitate and evaluate person centred planning, in the form of individualised training plans and progress reports,
To liaise with student learner’s family members/guardians and/or support persons as appropriate,
Programme Administration

To maintain and update training and assessment records for learners in line with the QQI accredited Quality Assurance Programme and the SOLAS Training Standards System,
To liaise with Equestrian Training Programme Coordinator in the monitoring and assurance of programme quality to apply consistently the quality assurance procedures set out by the SOLAS Training Standards System and as agreed with QQI.
Education and Training

Identify and address learning needs required in this role to further enhance programme facilitation within Festina Lente for student learners with additional and complex learning needs,
Participate in committees as directed by the Equestrian Training Programme Coordinator.
Health & Safety

Observe, report and take appropriate action on any matter which may be detrimental to student learners’ safety and wellbeing,
Complete incident reporting and near miss events,
Complete and review risk assessments, including the development of a positive risk management plan for student learners,
Adhere to all internal policies and procedures and to all relevant Health & Safety legislation.
Knowledge, skills and abilities
-Proven experience in programme facilitation, with particular focus on young adult learner engagement with additional and complex learning needs and positive behaviour solutions in a learning environment,

-A thorough AND progressive understanding of Non-Intellectual Disability (ID) Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) including Asperger’s Syndrome and High Functioning Autism with respect to supporting social interactions, communication styles, the presence of repetitive or restricted behaviours/interests.

-Proven ability to mentor and empower student learners with additional and complex needs, promoting positive engagement and person-centred decision-making,

-Proven experience in facilitating person centred planning and behaviour support for individuals with additional and complex learning needs,

-Exceptional organisational skills with attention to detail for record management and programme evaluation,

-Strong interpersonal and communication skills both individually and across a team setting,

-Ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse groups,

-Commitment to fostering a culture of social inclusion,

-Enjoys the outdoor environment and be physically able and fit for the strenuous nature of the post.

Education and experience

-An appropriate third level qualification in a related field e.g. Social Care/Health Care/Youth Work/Psychology,

-Proven experience of working in the area of disability, mental health, youth work or another related field,

-Equestrian experience (min): proven experience of working with horses in a coaching/teaching environment in terms of horse behaviour,

-Equestrian experience (desired): a relevant equestrian BHSAI qualification and proven equestrian coaching experience,

-Full and clean Irish driving licence.

Language: Fluent English

Work Authorisation: Ireland, required

Benefits of Employment:

Compensation: The salary will be commensurate with experience.

Benefits Include:

22 days’ annual leave
Access to a Personal Retirement Savings Account (PRSA) scheme
Access to professional training and continuous development programmes.
Access to Educational Support
Bike to work scheme
On-site parking
Closing date: 11th Jul 2025

Email CV plus cover letter to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. : +353879633348

https://www.festinalente.ie

Equal Opportunities Statement: Festina Lente is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, particularly those from diverse and underrepresented communities.

FESTINA LENTE CHILD PROTECTION POLICY / GARDA VETTING / MANDATORY DECLARATION Garda Vetting for all employees and volunteers is compulsory and those candidates invited for interview will be asked to complete a Garda Vetting form for submission at that time. The successful candidate will be provided with a copy of the Festina Lente Child Protection Policy and will be required to sign their acceptance of the contents of this document. A Mandatory Declaration Form must be signed in advance of commencement of employment.

 

Festina Lente requires Equestrian Coach

Equestrian Coach

Members of the Association of Irish Riding Establishments (AIRE) and the British Horse Society (BHS) Society), Festina Lente Enterprises CLG is recognised as a world Leader in Equine Assisted Services for those with additional needs. In preparation for the expansion of our Equine Services at the new venue of The National Education Centre, Kilpeddar, Co. Wicklow, we are seeking to attract talented coaches to join our team offering a very competitive package, on-site accommodation as well as an on-going commitment to develop in the space of Equine Assisted Services.

Situated within 1.5hrs commute from Dublin Airport, we are eager to expand this team internationally and will support relocation. For further information regarding this prestigious appointment please contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Equestrian Coach

Position Description: To work in conjunction with the Head of Coaching in the provision of quality equestrian coaching sessions to young people and adults including those with a disability

Department Name: Equestrian Learning Centre

Reporting to: Equestrian Learning Centre (ELC) Manager

Based at: Festina Lente Equestrian Learning Centre. The primary base for the position will be in our HQ at Old Connaught Avenue, Bray, Co Wicklow (relocating to Kilpedder, Co. Wicklow in 2 to 4 years).

Contract Type: Full-time Permanent, 39hr week (Sunday to Thursday)

Key Duties and Responsibilities

The Equestrian Coach will play a critical role in the following:

Delivery of all coaching sessions in accordance with Festina Lente’s guidelines
To develop a series of lesson plans appropriate to the abilities of each riding group and/or rider
To deliver coaching sessions based on both human learning theory and equine learning theory
To contribute to the highest standards of equine welfare
Knowledge, skills and abilities

A strong interest in working with young people
A strong interest in facilitating the learning of riders irrespective of learning ability
A minimum of three years’ full-time experience of coaching
Experience of designing session plans
Experience of ethical equine care and management
Experience of efficient administration and record keeping Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
Enjoys the outdoor environment and be physically able and fit for the strenuous nature of the post
Proven experience of working within a team structure
Committed to on-going self and professional development
Welcomes change and is committed to encouraging continuous improvement and learning
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Experience of being a team player
Experience of motivating riders
Proven ability to work on own initiative within a flexible, co-operative team structure
Solution focused
Ability to work to deadlines
Education and Experience

BHS Stage 2 Coaching Qualification
Experience of working with adults with disabilities would be an advantage
Experience of supporting individuals on a one-to-one basis would be preferable
Experience of working with horses based on equitation science learning principles.
Language: Fluent English

Work Authorisation: Ireland, required

Benefits of Employment:

Compensation: Salary will be reflective of experience and qualifications

Benefits Include:

Onsite accommodation available
Access to a Personal Retirement Savings Account (PRSA) scheme
Access to professional training and continuous development programmes.
Access to Educational Support
22 days’ annual leave
Bike to work scheme
On-site parking
Closing date 11th Jul 2025

Email CV plus cover letter to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Tel – +353879633348

https://www.festinalente.ie

Equal Opportunities Statement: Festina Lente is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, particularly those from diverse and underrepresented communities.

FESTINA LENTE CHILD PROTECTION POLICY / GARDA VETTING / MANDATORY DECLARATION

Garda Vetting for all employees and volunteers is compulsory and those candidates invited for interview will be asked to complete a Garda Vetting form for submission at that time. The successful candidate will be provided with a copy of the Festina Lente Child Protection Policy and will be required to sign their acceptance of the contents of this document. A Mandatory Declaration Form must be signed in advance of commencement of employment.

 

Yard Manager required at Festina Lente, Wicklow.

Yard Manager

Members of the Association of Irish Riding Establishments (AIRE) and the British Horse Society (BHS) Society), Festina Lente Enterprises CLG is recognised as a world Leader in Equine Assisted Services for those with additional needs. In preparation for the expansion of our Equine Services at the new venue of The National Education Centre, Kilpeddar, Co. Wicklow, we are seeking to attract an experienced Yard Manager to join our team.

For further information regarding this managerial appointment please contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Yard Manager

Position Description: To manage the yard and stables to the highest professional standard through overseeing the daily operation of the yard ensuring the wellbeing of equines, and the management of yard staff.

Department Name: Equestrian Learning Centre

Reporting to: Equestrian Learning Centre (ELC) Manager

Based at: Festina Lente Equestrian Learning Centre. The primary base for the position will be in our HQ at Old Connaught Avenue, Bray, Co Wicklow (relocating to Kilpedder, Co. Wicklow in 2 to 4 years).

Contract Type: Full-time Permanent, 39hr week (Sunday to Thursday)

Key Duties and Responsibilities

The Yard Manager will play a critical role in the following:

Timetabling Activities:

Overseeing the allocation of all equines to the range of equine based activities
Ensuring that equines are prepared and available for each activity
Preparation of a daily timetable detailing equines allocated for each activity including turn-out time
Liaising with accounts and administrative staff in relation to client accounts as may be necessary
Ensuring lessons and various activities run according to timetables and deal promptly with any changes that may occur.
Creating timetables for staff/volunteers
 

 

Equine Wellbeing and Welfare:

Liaising with vets, chiropractors, dentist, farrier and other ancillary support professions in response to equine welfare and management
Keeping records of all treatments given to horses
Ensuring that hours worked for all equines is based on fairness, individual equine welfare and nature of the specific activity and where necessary discuss necessary changes with each staff member
Ensure that appropriate turn-out time is made available for all equines
To ensure equine welfare based on equine cognition and learning principles
Stable Operations:

Ensuring that there are sufficient supplies available e.g. feed, hay and that supplies are ordered in a timely and cost effective manner
Budgeting the annual table of the supplies and their costs, ensuring that financial procedures are followed in relation to all purchases,
Review regular review of suppliers to ensure best value for money
People Management:

Managing the work scheduling and performance engagement of all yard staff,
Leading the onboarding, integration and training of yard staff, helpers, work experience placements and volunteers,
Supporting the ongoing professional development of all yard staff via regular one to one meetings and bi-annual performance review meetings.
Creating a positive and professional relationship with all staff working within the Equestrian Learning Centre.
Implementing the Health and Safety procedures in accordance with the Safety Statement as well as ensuring all stable related activities are adequately risk assessed
Knowledge, skills and abilities

Proven experience in stable management ideally in an equine learning and therapeutic environment,
Exceptional horsemanship skills with proven experience in equine schooling, including lunging,
Proven experience in managing and motivating a large team of staff,
Strong interpersonal and communication skills both individually and across a team setting,
Strong intrapersonal skills including self-motivation, flexibility, tenacity, critical thinking and problem solving,
Ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse groups,
Commitment to fostering a culture of social inclusion,
Enjoys the outdoor environment and be physically able and fit for the strenuous nature of the post.
Education and Experience

An appropriate third level qualification in a related field e.g. equine management and equine science,
Proven experience of horsemanship skills including horse training, horse care & welfare, equine nutrition, anatomy & physiology, equine transportation, facility management & maintenance and,
Equestrian experience (min): proven experience of working with horses in a coaching/teaching environment in terms of horse behaviour, a solid appreciation of health and safety regulations as well as proven people management skills.
Equestrian experience (desired): a relevant equestrian BHSAI qualification,
Full and clean Irish driving licence.
Language: Fluent English

Work Authorisation: Ireland, required

Benefits of Employment:

Compensation: Salary will be reflective of experience and qualifications

Benefits Include:

Access to a Personal Retirement Savings Account (PRSA) scheme
Access to professional training and continuous development programmes.
Access to Educational Support
22 days’ annual leave
Bike to work scheme
On-site parking
Closing date 11 Jul 2025

Email CV plus cover letter to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Tel – +353879633348

Equal Opportunities Statement: Festina Lente is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, particularly those from diverse and underrepresented communities.

FESTINA LENTE CHILD PROTECTION POLICY / GARDA VETTING / MANDATORY DECLARATION

Garda Vetting for all employees and volunteers is compulsory and those candidates invited for interview will be asked to complete a Garda Vetting form for submission at that time. The successful candidate will be provided with a copy of the Festina Lente Child Protection Policy and will be required to sign their acceptance of the contents of this document. A Mandatory Declaration Form must be signed in advance of commencement of employment.