Assistant trainer

Assistant Trainer

An Assistant Trainer supports the Trainer in the daily management of the yard, horses, and staff, helping to ensure high standards of horse welfare, stable operations, and race preparation.

The role involves overseeing training routines, supervising staff, coordinating race day logistics, and supporting communication with owners, making it an ideal progression opportunity for experienced racing professionals looking to develop their leadership skills.

Average starting salary

Above National Minimum Wage

Average hours per week

40 hours

Job availability

Low

Experience

Usually has experience of working in a racing yard as a Head Groom.

Main Duties of an Assistant Trainer

  • Oversee daily training routines and ensure horses are exercised in line with the Trainer’s plan.
  • Supervise staff and delegate tasks to ensure smooth yard operations.
  • Monitor horse health and welfare, spotting early signs of illness or injury.
  • Liaise with vets, farriers, and physiotherapists to support care and treatment.
  • Assist with ordering supplies and managing daily and weekly yard schedules.

What the role requires

  • Deep understanding of racehorse training, care and performance management.
  • Understanding of fitness timelines and horse preparation.
  • Coordinate race day logistics, including entries, travel, documentation, and turnout.
  • Record-keeping and contributing to yard planning.
  • Compliance with employment, welfare and safety standards.
  • Promote a positive and compliant working environment, including safeguarding and wellbeing.

Desirable skills

  • Deep understanding of racehorse training, care and performance management.
  • Knowledge of all racing protocols, rules, entries, declarations and logistics.
  • Strong leadership and able to make good decisions under pressure.
  • Excellent communication with staff, owners, and stakeholders.

Working conditions

  • Outdoor, physical role in all weather conditions.
  • Includes early mornings and weekends.
  • Travel often required.

Benefits

  • Industry-aligned pay and benefits package.
  • Pool money and accommodation may be available.

Career Progression

Sign up to our newsletter

Hear all the latest news, events and career info, plus tips and tools to help your career

Our website uses cookies to distinguish you from other users, help us provide you with a good experience and analyse our traffic. We have to collect some data while you use this website. We need this to make the site work, to keep it secure, and to comply with regulations.

We'd also like your consent to collect data while you use this website to help us understand if our website is working well and to learn what content is most useful to visitors. You can accept or reject our analytic cookies (including the collection of associated data) and change your mind at any time. Find out more in our Cookies Policy.