Hay There, Courtney!

We caught up with Courtney, Senior Groom at The Horse Trust, to chat about her passion for caring for veteran horses, her unique career journey, and her Horse Trust favourites…

Hi Courtney! How long have you been with The Horse Trust, and what brought you here?

I’ve been here for four years now. I started as a Groom and was promoted to Senior Groom in my first year. My love of veteran horses is what brought me here. Horses have been a part of my life since I was 12, and I’ve worked in all sorts of livery yards – including with eventer Andrew James!

My work took me from my home in Bedfordshire where I’m originally from, to Kent where I spent seven years. I then moved to Hertfordshire, where I met my now-wife. It was also there that I discovered my passion for veterans, thanks to one very special horse. There was just something about him – he was so sweet, and caring for him never felt like a job. That’s when I realised this is what I wanted to do.

When I moved to Aylesbury, I found The Horse Trust by what felt like fate! Their work with retired working horses was exactly what I’d been searching for.

What’s a day in the life like as a Senior Groom?

No two days are ever the same! I work closely with the veterinary team to help our horses with treatments, which I find really rewarding. I also love spending one-on-one time with them during field checks.

In the winter, though, it’s not as tempting to hang around outside! The horses, on the other hand, are so fluffy with their winter coats. I swear they look at us like we’re the wimps!

We know it’s impossible to have a favourite, but if you had to choose…?

Without hesitation – Starling, one of our retired therapy Shetlands, and Zara, our oldest Household Cavalry horse. They couldn’t be more different in size, but they’re both charismatic and independent. Real “strong women” types!

I also have a soft spot for our donkey mother-and-daughter duo, Lola and Nora. Lola, especially, is such a sensitive soul.

What’s the most rewarding part of your job?

Helping horses thrive. They come here with so many stories – some of the rescues have been through a lot. Watching them settle in and enjoy their life here is just the best feeling.

For anyone aspiring to be in your role, what advice would you give?

It’s not the easiest job. It’s physically demanding, especially in winter, and no two days are ever the same. But if you’re passionate about horses, it’s so rewarding. You’ll have tough days, but the horses make it worth every second.

Thank you, Courtney, for sharing your journey with us!

Your love shines through in everything you do, and we’re so lucky to have you on the team.

Are you inspired by Courtney’s story? We’re currently hiring for the positions of Groom and Senior Groom. If this sounds like your dream role, check out our vacancies below!

Job Opportunities