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Job Description
Chatham Hall is more than a school—it's a way of life. Here, girls live boldly, learn deeply, and grow into the leaders the world needs. As a 24/7 immersive living-and-learning community built exclusively for girls, we blend rigorous academics, vibrant campus life, and transformative leadership development into one extraordinary journey. We also offer a warm, collegial atmosphere for teaching professionals, administrators, and staff. Rooted in rich traditions and dedicated to building a positive school culture, our community thrives on connection and collaboration. With 95% of our students living on campus, most faculty members also reside here, supporting our 24-hour community and enjoying the benefits of living where they work. For many, Chatham Hall is not just a school or a job—it is also a home. Chatham Hall seeks energetic faculty and staff who are passionate about working with students and helping them to grow as learners. We work in a dynamic setting with colleagues who strive to provide the best student experience possible. Our students join us from all over the world, and we seek a faculty and staff community ready to welcome and support them in every facet of their journey. We are especially interested in candidates who will contribute to and are committed to diversity and multicultural educational practices. Successful candidates will demonstrate a dedication to working in a diverse community, the ability to communicate effectively with diverse populations, and a willingness to create an inclusive work environment. We also expect faculty and staff to engage in professional development opportunities that further strengthen inclusive teaching and management practices. Join Our Team! Riding Instructor and Assistant Equine Studies Coordinator Chatham Hall is seeking a dynamic Riding Instructor & Assistant Equine Studies Coordinator to support its riding program, which is grounded in the American Forward Riding System, as well as its academic equine studies curriculum. The ideal candidate will bring experience in teaching riding, developing horses, and instructing students across a range of abilities, while also supporting the coordination of the Equine Studies Certificate Program and contributing to the life of the school community. Chatham Hall seeks candidates who will contribute to and are committed to diversity and multicultural educational practices. Chatham Hall seeks candidates who demonstrate a dedication to working in a diverse community.
The school seeks candidates who:
communicate effectively with diverse populations, create an inclusive work environment, and engage in professional development opportunities to further develop inclusive management practices.
Planning and delivering safe, engaging, and skill-appropriate riding lessons for students at all levels, from beginner through advanced jumping Teaching private and group lessons during afternoon athletic periods Assisting in teaching one Equine Science or Riding Theory class Riding or lunging school horses to maintain fitness, training, and performance levels Providing training rides on selected horses Supervising students during tacking, grooming, and untacking, and ensuring proper horsemanship practices Providing feedback to students on riding progress and skill development
Equine Studies Program Support:
Assisting in coordinating the Equine Studies Certificate Program Program components include: Coursework in Riding Theory and Equine Science Two years of full-time participation in the riding program Completion of at least one approved equine-related internship Responsibilities include: Tracking student progress and program completion Serving as a resource for student questions regarding program requirements Managing Horsemanship Hours and Mane Mentoring during the riding season
Barn & Program Support:
Coordinating daily riding schedules and horse assignments Administering approved therapeutic treatments to horses before and/or after work Assisting with general barn duties as needed, including stalls, clipping, and turnout, in coordination with the Barn Manager Supporting barn staff and ensuring smooth daily operations Assisting in organizing and running on-campus horse shows Traveling with students to off-campus horse shows as needed Supporting riding program admissions efforts, including tours and occasional travel
Coaching & Student Engagement:
Coaching the Middle School IEA Team, including leading approximately two practices per month Traveling with Middle and Upper School students to selected IEA competitions Supporting student development, sportsmanship, and teamwork
Other:
Participating in the residential life program, including possible dorm supervision and community-building Attending all required school events, including assemblies, meetings, competitions, and special events As a full boarding school, some evening and weekend responsibilities are required Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree required; equine studies, animal science, education, or related field preferred Experience teaching riding and working with horses in a structured program Familiarity with the American Forward Riding System Strong horsemanship and horse management skills Experience working with middle and/or high school students preferred Strong communication and interpersonal skills Willingness to contribute to the life of the school community outside the barn Ability to coach and travel with students for competitions Willingness to serve in a residential life role; campus housing may be provided Application Process Interested candidates should submit the following to Ally Doyon, Director of Riding, at adoyon@chathamhall.org : A current resume A letter of interest explaining why you are excited about this role and how you would contribute to the Chatham Hall community At least one letter of recommendation Chatham Hall seeks candidates who will contribute to and are committed to diversity and multicultural educational practices. Chatham Hall seeks candidates who demonstrate a dedication to working in a diverse community.
The school seeks candidates who:
communicate effectively with diverse populations, create an inclusive work environment, and engage in professional development opportunities to further develop inclusive management practices. For Applicants Benefits Chatham Hall offers a competitive benefits package for full-time faculty and staff, including: 403(b) Retirement Plan Medical & Dental insurance Vacation, Sick, & Personal time Long-Term Disability Insurance Life and AD&D Insurance Flexible Spending Account Supplemental Insurance Policies Professional Development Opportunities Tuition Remission (for eligible children of employees to attend Chatham Hall) Housing Benefit (applicable to certain positions) Free Meals from the Dining Hall (while School is in session) Application Process If selected, those applying for faculty positions can expect to receive an email from the contact expressing interest in continuing the process. Candidates will have an initial Zoom interview with an individual on the hiring team, followed by a robust set of interviews on campus with faculty, administrators, and students. Additional interviews and visits may be scheduled as needed. Teaching candidates may be asked to teach a class. Those applying for staff positions can expect to participate in a phone interview followed by an in-person interview if selected as a finalist for the position. Living in the Region The Town of Chatham is quaint, warm, and small, boasting 1,300 residents and the friendliness of its citizens. Chatham Hall faculty and students alike enjoy walking to Main St. for a coffee, meal, or shopping excursion. Uniquely positioned, Chatham enjoys close proximity to Charlottesville, Lynchburg, Roanoke, the Raleigh/Durham Research Triangle, and Greensboro. Check out our Visit, Stay, & Explore page to learn more about the area. Many faculty members are able to live on campus or locally in housing provided by the School. For those looking to put down roots, the affordable housing market in the area offers opportunities to buy. Come enjoy beautiful southwest Virginia!
