United Kingdom -- The Times of London carried a story on June 15, 2000 by Beryl Dixon about what is involved in becoming a riding instructor:

Am I the right type? Are you looking for a combination of working with people and animals and outdoor activity? Riding instructors give individual and group lessons, school horses and may be responsible for the care, grooming and exercising of a number of horses or ponies.

How would I dress for work? Some employers may require jodhpurs and jacket; others may be satisfied with less formal dress. But in all cases, a safety hat is necessary.

Accessories? Tack, lunge rein, pupil lists, first aid kit.

Skills? Technical (riding and schooling), patience, stamina, ability to communicate, enthusiasm for teaching, willingness to work outdoors, quick reactions and a knowledge of procedures in case of accident or emergency.

Would I have friends? You could have pupils of all ages and levels of ability.

How do I begin? You could set up in business as an instructor. The title isn't protected but any good riding school - and most potential pupils - will want to know that you have proper training and qualifications behind you. The British Horse Society (BHS) and Association of British Riding Schools provide recognised qualifications.

How would I train? You must pass tests in personal riding skills and in teaching. A certain number of teaching hours must be "logged". The length of time taken to qualify depends on your level of riding skill and experience. You would be examined in taking individual lessons and class rides and in giving classroom lectures. There are three main methods of training: full or part time courses at a state- run college of further or higher education, lasting from one to three years; a three or six-month course at a private training centre - expect to pay upwards of Pounds 2,500 for three months - or as a working pupil at a riding school, which is used mainly by school leavers. There are also first degrees and higher national diplomas in equine studies that include an opportunity to obtain recognised qualifications and a BHS distance-learning route for theory study.

Who would give me a job? Riding schools and trekking centres. Or you could be self-employed.

What is the current situation? British qualifications are widely recognised. You could work in other countries - 27 recognise an "international passport for instructors".

How much could I earn? Around Pounds 20,000. More than Pounds 35,000 if you have top level qualifications.

How could I progress? You could specialise in working with beginners or experienced riders, or coaching for competitions, or become a senior instructor or school manager.

What is the current situation? Riding is increasingly popular so, depending on where you live, employment should not be difficult to obtain.

Any tips? Check that any centre offering training understands the examination standards, has its own qualified instructors and a good pass rate. Work may be seasonal, although large schools often have indoor training facilities for winter use. For more information contact The British Horse Society, telephone 01926 707700, www.bhs.org.uk or speak to the Association of British Riding Schools on 01736 369440.