Associations in Baden-Württemberg are funding a project position to provide advice on school horses, clubs, and equestrian businesses
Let’s Get to Work: Helping Schools with School Horse Programs – Baden-Württemberg Launches an Interesting Pilot Project
from Jan Tönjes 
Illustrative photo of a riding school. Photo: sportfotos-lafrentz.de What have parents been saying for generations when their whining kids want a pet? “You know you’ll have to take care of it every day.” And: “The initial cost isn’t really the issue…” A similar underlying principle drives the initiative launched by the Baden-Württemberg Equestrian Sports Association (PferdeSportverband BW) in collaboration with the Baden-Württemberg Horse Breeders’ Association (PZVBW).
A school horse + the “same old” approach = failure
The fact that there are fewer and fewer suitable school ponies and horses available in Germany is nothing new. You read about how a facility that offers riding lessons can certainly be a successful venture. Flagship projects are gaining public attention. Initiatives such as the school horse program of the German Equestrian Federation (FN)/Pferdesport Deutschland support facilities in acquiring a school horse. And then? Then the facility has to make sure it operates successfully. This is exactly where the idea from the two associations in Baden-Württemberg comes in.
With nearly 94,000 members in about 800 clubs, the Baden-Württemberg Equestrian Sports Association (PZVBW) is the largest equestrian sports association in Germany and the tenth-largest sports association in “The Länd.” The PZVBW is the second-largest breeding association within the DSP in terms of the number of registered foals. And the seventh-largest in Germany. The new position, designed for a part-time role (50 percent), is funded by both associations. The role involves providing support in the areas of school horse programs, member recruitment, and helping clubs figure out how to reach new target groups.
On-Site Support
The future project staff member will not only advise associations and organizations but also provide on-site support during implementation. The associations explicitly state that simply developing ideas at a desk is not enough. The job posting makes this clear. The scope of duties includes, among other things, advising school horse facilities. Analyses are to be conducted and individual development needs identified. Developing recommendations for action and planning informational events, workshops, and networking meetings are also part of the job description.
Who We’re Looking For
We are seeking
a candidate with a college degree or equivalent qualification in sports management, club management, education, or business administration, who is familiar with the structures of organized equestrian sports and, ideally, already has experience in club consulting, project work, or organizational development.
Strong communication skills, a passion for working with volunteers, and an independent, solution-oriented approach to work are required—as are a willingness to travel within Baden-Württemberg and a Class B driver’s license.
Flexibility
In return, the associations offer a position with considerable autonomy, flexible working hours, and the option to work remotely, as well as performance-based compensation and opportunities for continuing education and professional development. The pilot program is initially projected to last three years.
If you’re interested, you can apply to Miriam Abel, the executive director of the PferdeSportverband BW, by email or mail.
miriam.abel@pferdesport-bw.de
