On-the-job training: getting it right

New research from the British Grooms Association (BGA) highlights the importance of getting training, pay and employment arrangements right in the equestrian industry.

On-the-job training is a valuable part of working in the equestrian industry, helping young people and new entrants develop practical skills and gain experience.

But it is important that training arrangements are fair, transparent and legally compliant.

The BGA’s recent survey highlights issues around on-the-job training and provides a timely reminder for employers to review their arrangements.

The Equestrian Employers Association (EEA) is here to help you navigate your responsibilities and make sure you are getting things right.

Taking on an apprentice?

If you are considering taking on an apprentice, using a recognised training provider, such as Haddon Training, can help you establish a structured training programme and understand your responsibilities as an employer.

Make sure you pay at least National Minimum Wage

Employees must receive at least the applicable National Minimum Wage (NMW) for every hour they work, including hours spent working as part of their training. If staff receive benefits such as discounted livery or training, these arrangements must not result in their pay falling below the legal minimum.

Keep livery and training charges separate from wages 

Where staff pay for livery or training, ensure these are properly documented and invoiced separately. Simply deducting charges from wages can create NMW compliance issues, even where the employee has agreed to the arrangement.

Be clear about accommodation charges

If you provide accommodation as part of an employment package be clear about what is included and how any charges are handled. Make sure you understand how this affects NMW calculations. Only the permitted accommodation offset can count towards meeting the minimum wage, and charging above the permitted amount can reduce an employee’s pay for NMW purposes.

The EEA is here to help

Getting employment arrangements right from the outset protects both your business and your staff. If you are unsure about apprenticeships, training arrangements, wages, deductions or accommodation charges, the EEA can provide practical HR and employment law support to help you understand your obligations.

Need advice?

Get in touch with the EEA before putting a new arrangement in place, so you can feel confident you are doing things properly.