Programme Associate

ABOUT EQUAL

EQUAL is an IPC-registered charity that delivers equine-assisted and animal-assisted services to support the mental and emotional wellbeing of children, youth, seniors, families, and communities. Our work sits at the intersection of human wellbeing, animal welfare, and experiential learning, and is delivered through a multidisciplinary team of programme professionals, equine specialists, operations staff, and volunteers. Fundraising is mission-critical to EQUAL’s ability to deliver safe, high-quality, and impactful programmes. As the organisation scales, EQUAL is strengthening its fundraising infrastructure, pipeline discipline, and stewardship capability to support sustainable growth.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Programme Specialist is responsible for the delivery, quality and continuous improvement of programme sessions at EQUAL. This role goes beyond programme execution to include ensuring high-quality facilitation, strong participant engagement, and meaningful learning outcomes. The Programme Specialist applies structured facilitation approaches, adapts sessions to participant needs, and generates insights to improve programme effectiveness over time. Working closely with the Senior Programme Specialist and internal teams, the Programme Specialist ensures that all sessions are delivered safely, consistently, and in alignment with EQUAL’s frameworks (EAGALA, E3A and other recognised models).

ROLE REQUIREMENTS

1. Programme Delivery & Facilitation

• Facilitate animal-assisted programmes with clear structure, flow and purpose.
• Ensure sessions are engaging, well-paced and aligned to intended learning outcomes.
• Apply appropriate facilitation and reflective techniques to support participant learning.
• Manage group dynamics and adapt delivery in real time to meet participant needs.

2. Session Quality & Participant Outcomes

• Take ownership of the quality and effectiveness of each session delivered.
• Ensure strong participant engagement, meaningful reflection, and learning consolidation.
• Adjust facilitation approach to improve session outcomes where needed.

3. Programme Design & Improvement

• Review and refine session plans to strengthen clarity, flow and outcomes.
• Adapt activities for different participant profiles (e.g. youths, seniors, varying abilities).
• Identify opportunities to improve programme delivery and participant experience

4. Insight Generation & Feedback

• Observe and document key session insights, including what worked well and areas for improvement.
• Provide feedback to Senior Programme Specialist to support programme refinement.
• Contribute to ongoing programme evaluation and improvement efforts.

5. Safety & Risk Management

• Conduct safety briefings and ensure adherence to all safety protocols.
• Monitor participant behaviour and emotional responses during sessions.
• Work closely with Equine Trainers to ensure safe and appropriate horse–human interaction.

6. Stakeholder Coordination

• Coordinate with partners and internal teams to ensure smooth programme delivery.
• Respond to stakeholder queries in a timely and professional manner.

7. Animal Welfare Awareness

• Demonstrate understanding of horse behaviour and welfare principles.
• Ensure participant interactions with horses are safe and appropriate.
• Report any concerns regarding horse wellbeing.

8. Administration & Compliance

• Complete programme documentation and reports accurately and on time.
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to PDPA guidelines.
• Maintain required certifications (e.g. First Aid).

9. Team Contribution

• Share best practices and contribute to a collaborative team environment.
• Support peers where needed to ensure programme success.

Experience

• Diploma or Degree in Psychology, Social Work, Education, Community Development or related disciplines
• No prior experience required but minimum experience in programme delivery, facilitation, education, social services or related fields could be beneficial.
• Experience working with diverse groups (e.g. youths, seniors, vulnerable populations) is advantageous
• Exposure to experiential learning, coaching, facilitation or therapeutic environments is preferred
• Prior experience in animal-assisted programmes is beneficial but not required
• Relevant certifications (e.g. First Aid) or willingness to obtain them