Profile information
Host rating
80 %
Last replied
1 Mar 2024
Reply rate
64.7 %
Usually responds within 17 days
Feedback
24
Email verified
Badges (2)
Details
Description
In 2017 we opened Ceylon Riding Club, the only internationally run horse-riding centre, based in Piliyandala, Sri Lanka overlooking verdant green paddy fields in 3-acres of land. We have 14 horses, native Indian Sindhi horses, thoroughbreds and ponies, all well-loved and well-trained, beautifully natured. We have around 300 members and are looking to expand. In September 2022 we relocated to a beautiful new stables at Colombo Port City; we are particularly looking for volunteers with previous experience working with horses.
Running a riding school in this part of the world is challenging with very limited equine infrastructure and resources. Training and keeping trained staff is also a daily challenge. If you are looking for something challenging, are not put off by hard work and hands on, and/or have skills in riding, schooling and instruction, we would love to hear from you. We have basic accommodation for you at the stables which is close to the beach and the centre of Colombo on the New Port City Development. I have a small team of permanent staff including two international instructors, management trainees and several volunteers.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Help with Eco Projects
Teaching
Gardening
Animal Care
Farmstay help
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Help around the house
Hospitality/Tourism
General Maintenance
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
Where to start? Sri Lanka is emerging after 30 years of internal conflict and an economic depression which means your euros, dollars or pounds will go a long way.. it is an exciting time to experience Sri Lanka from the inside rather than as a tourist. You can learn to cook Sri Lankan food, learn the language, enjoy village life, customs and traditions in ways that you can never experience in conventional ways. This is a completely unique location that many Sri Lankans are only now discovering. We run a very happy, family business with at least 80% of our clients from Sri Lanka. It may also suit someone recently qualified in equestrian-related skills who wants to get some real-world experience.
Help
Ideal for someone who loves animals, prior equestrian experience preferred If you have stable management or horse husbandry, horse riding, farrier skills and/or riding instruction experience, it is a big bonus. We start early morning but the middle of the day is mostly free. Weekends are busy, but during the week less so. We will make sure you have days off to enjoy the country and meet new people. Work will include cleaning stables, grooming and exercising horses, maintenance, helping in lessons, all things horse-related. Qualified farriers, equine vets and BHS instructors very welcome to apply!
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Accommodation
We have a guest room adjoining the stables with a shared bathroom and kitchen; clean simple and comfortable. There are fans in each room. The location is stunning, 270 degree horizon views and stunning sunsets.
What else ...
Everyone here gets around by tuk tuk. We have a local service and the tuk tuks have meters, which makes it very easy and safe. Central Colombo is 10 mins away and an authentic Sri Lankan experience complete with vegetable markets and local shops. Colombo has all amenities including restaurants, bars, nightclubs and a coastline with 5 star hotels and fine dining. From the stables there is a 20 min walk into Colombo city from which you can get a modern a/c bus or train to the south coast and all the tropical beach resorts. You can also travel to the tea estates and within 4 hours be upcountry in the cool colonial town of Nuwara Eliya or the ancient capital of Kandy with its temples and historical sites.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
How many Workawayers can stay?
Two
Hours expected
5 days , 25 hours/week- food
Feedback (15)
He proved himself an invaluable team member and a good cook… read more
Feedback
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Cultural exchange:
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He proved himself an invaluable team member and a good cook… read more
Given the fact that I had some experience with riding and horse care, my daily tasks consisted of helping out in lessons, grooming and tacking up, preparing horse feed… read more
Ineke is an incredibly inspirational,… read more
We hope he will come back and visit us again one… read more
It was hard physical work (mucking out stables, cutting grass for horses, etc.) but that’s exactly what I was looking for. If you work extra, you can get free riding lessons! I worked pretty long hours but that’s not… read more
This was my first time away from my partner after 6 months of travelling so I was a bit wary of feeling safe etc but Ineke reassured me, and as soon as I arrived I felt completely safe.
I was lucky enough to stay in Ineke’s house, in literally the most… read more
We had a lot of good work to do and it was a great chance to get out of the big city life!
Thanks to Ineke, Pui,… read more
Even though work is physical and not the easiest I really liked it because you are in touch with the horses throughout the day which was new to me. My favourite part… read more
You will work with an international staff. The days start early because it gets too warm in the afternoon. Your day starts with… read more
The work was real but the whole team, horses and members of the club make it worth it ! Although, if hard work and dedication scare you, please do not come here because they need help and motivation. But if you like horse riding, you'll be in… read more
Ineke and the rest of the family are very happy for you to make suggestions and if you have particular skills regarding horseback… read more
