News

CELEBRATING GOOD EMPLOYMENT Centre spotlight - Oakland's Riding School

Thursday, 20 November 2025

More than just a place to ride: Oakland’s Riding School in Exeter is a community.

Founded by Jacky and Paul's mother, the centre has grown from humble beginnings into a thriving hub with over 50 horses and a dedicated team of staff, many of whom have been part of the journey since childhood.

Jacky and Paul now lead the British Horse Society approved centre with the same values their mother instilled when it was first founded in 1971: exceptional standards, fairness and care, not just for the horses but for those who make the centre what it is – a legacy to be proud of.

The importance of good employment

“Any business is only as good as its employees.”

Oakland’s Riding School believes in fair treatment, appreciation and listening. Staff are often recruited from among participants, creating a natural progression from rider to employee. One staff member who left for a “better job” returned after poor treatment elsewhere – proof that respect and support matter when it comes to retaining staff.

Jacky and Paul explain the importance of communication and transparency, "The more open you are with staff, the more they will trust you, respect you and be willing to help when you need the extra support."

The centre's policy ensures every member of staff is given reasonable and regular work hours, meaning they have plenty of time to rest, enjoy other hobbies and come back feeling refreshed. 

A culture that keeps people and supports progression

Oakland’s culture is deeply rooted in community. A place where staff members become family, many having grown up at the centre. One coach has continued their career at Oakland's for 35 years, while another staff member is third generation, with her grandmother as one of the first clients.

Georgia, part of the team at Oakland's describes her experience, “Working at Oakland’s is fantastic because we have a great team of workers and volunteers as well as a vast variety of horses and ponies which allows us to teach all abilities. As a long-term member of staff, I find watching our customers progress and enjoy their lessons extremely rewarding and motivating. 

“For me, good employment is when I feel valued and respected and can make a meaningful contribution as well as having opportunities to grow.”

Even after recent changes, including bereavement and maternity leave, the team continues to support one another and are keen to take on new responsibilities between themselves. 

Jacky sums up perfectly why being a good employer benefits everyone, “We’re all human. Some days are good, some are tough – but we talk, we listen and we get through it together.”

A number of former Oakland’s staff have now gone on to manage their own equestrian centres, a testament to Oakland’s providing a strong foundation for learning and both personal and professional development.

horse welfare

The team at Oakland’s are a great example of well-looked after staff meaning well-looked after horses.

They're dedicated to the welfare of the horses, willing to help in emergencies and supporting each other through challenges. As the centre managers, Jacky and Paul handle most of the logistics such as ordering the feed and bedding, along with the many admin tasks that are required to run a business. They explain that taking on these background tasks frees up staff on the ground so they can focus entirely on equine care and running the riding school business.

oakland's Top tips for centres

• Be inclusive and transparent: Accept people for who they are and share information openly
• Create a sense of team identity: Encourage pride and celebrate achievements – small touches like providing uniforms can create a sense of belonging.
• Trust your team: Give staff responsibility to make decisions – respect and confidence go hand in hand
• Encourage pride: Set high standards and celebrate them
• Support work/life balance: Reasonable work hours helps your team stay positive, productive and ready to give their best
• Look after your staff: Homemade sausage rolls through cold winters or ice creams in hot weather – small gestures make the biggest difference!

Speaking to Jacky and Paul, it’s clear how committed they are to running their centre responsibly — creating an environment where every team member feels valued and can enjoy the best possible experience working in an industry they love.

The Equestrian Employers Association is raising awareness of the importance of employing legally, fairly and kindly. Be the change and help to make the equestrian industry a place of Good Employment.