We are often seeking leaders and volunteers for various programs throughout the year.
Free training begins with two 4-hour workshops in the classroom and arena to learn the basics of our self-development programs for equestrians. These basics are drawn primarily from Dressage, Therapeutic Riding, Centered Riding, Gestalt psychology and the physiology of the autonomic nervous system. The two Workshops prepare you for further practical training. As volunteers, you assist real clients in the role (see below) most appropriate to your age and previous experience.
EMPLOYMENT
Willowbank selects outstanding graduates from the programs below (or equivalent) for emp loyment.
WEEKLY LESSON ASSISTANTS
Stable Management
Age 14 and up. Training is free.
Pre-requisites: First aid, police report
Trainees learn
- horse-care skills
- to observe consistently
- handle horses safely
- stable, feed, groom, bandage
- lead, handle doors and gates and manage turn-outs.
- understand the needs of a healthy horse, common ailments and injuries, equine first aid, when to call the Vet or Blacksmith
- learn the purpose, care and fitting of a variety of equipment (‘tack’)
Leader and/or Sidewalker
Age 14 and up. Training is free.
Trainees join the team supporting a specific client rider for at least 8 weekly sessions of 2 hours. Under direct supervision:
- learn horse handling skills
- people skills
- understand goal-setting
Fun, walking exercise that, for teens, counts for High School Volunteer Hours.
EMPLOYMENT TRAINING—ADULT CANDIDATES WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
| Commitment | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 2 hours/day, 2 or 3 days/week | 8 weeks and up | $5/hour ($240 for 8 weeks, 3 days/week) |
Candidates work under the direct supervision of adult staff.
When a candidate can meet our standards for specific tasks, he/she becomes eligible for a motivational honorarium. If existing staff can complete the specified tasks in 30 minutes, and the trainee requires 60 minutes with only drop-in supervision, the trainee will receive an honorarium of 50% of the staff wage. 
Trainees learn good work habits, pride in their work, bonding with the horse, self-esteem and a sense of worth.
SUMMER CAMP STAFF Trainees
Camp Assistant (Volunteer)
Age 14 and up.
The ‘Stable Management’ and ‘Leader and/or Sidewalker’ training are pre-requisites. Work for 4 or 8 weeks as part of the Summer Team. Have a great summer with horses, on the ground and/or mounted, while you build your resume with skills and experience and a quality Reference.
Pre-requisites:
- First Aid Certificate
- Police Report
Camp Counsellor (Volunteer)
Age 16 and up.
Further build your resume with higher level responsibility, competence and experience. Life-Saving certificate, Baby-Sitting Certificate, or skill in some of canoeing, camping, nature studies, children’s programs, arts and crafts will be an advantage. 
Pre-requisites:
- At least one summer at Willowbank or equivalent
- First Aid Certificate
- Police Report
Horse Trainer (Volunteer)
Age 16 and up.
Available for 4 or 8 weeks in summer. Receive free coaching each day you participate. Deepen your awareness of human/horse relationships and respectful attitude, seat, sensitivity and communication with the horse. Learn to improve the relaxation, flexibility, sensitivity, balance and impulsion of a horse, and to resolve specific problems.
Gain familiarity with at least two of:
- equine massage;
- equine acupressure;
- myofacial relaxation techniques (Tellington Touch);
- nutritional adjustments to accommodate different workloads, types of work, and ageing;
- Yoga for equestrians, or
- physiotherapeutic exercises for riders.
Pre-requisites:
- Candidates must be experienced riders with balanced seat in walk, trot and canter and competent over fences.
INSTRUCTOR TRAINING
Age 18 and up.
Available year-round.
Willowbank will provide Mentors to supervise and assist completion of the Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association (CanTRA) Assistant Instructor (AI) Home Study Course (homework is essential), and practical preparation for the CanTRA AI Technical exam. You may also prepare for appropriate Canadian Equestrian Federation (CEF) Dressage and Jumping Levels.
Prerequisites:
- experience equivalent to Willowbank Leader, Sidewalker, Stable Management, and Horse Trainer as above
- First Aid Certificate
- Police Report
Limited housing is available.
In exchange for the above services, you commit to equivalent hours participating in Willowbank Programs. Negotiate your commitment in advance.
International riders are invited to enjoy a great Horseman’s Holiday in Canada!