Hands-on experience where it matters most.
We offer structured internship opportunities for high school, undergraduate, and graduate students — working alongside children, adults, veterans, and horses in a 501(c)(3) nonprofit environment.
Why Intern at Ivey Ranch?
Ivey Ranch is a proud community partner of California State University San Marcos, MiraCosta College, and Palomar College — and we’ve worked with students from other universities as well. Our internships fulfill requirements for Associate’s, Bachelor’s, and Master’s degrees, with lengths ranging from a single semester to year-long preceptorships.
You’ll gain meaningful field experience with both special needs and able-bodied populations in a dually accredited therapeutic facility — working alongside Lead Teachers, certified equine instructors, and nonprofit directors. Interns are eligible for Certificates of Recognition, President’s Volunteer Service Award nominations, and riding scholarships. It’s the kind of experience that stands out on a resume and shapes a career.
We offer three internship tracks — choose the one that fits your goals:
Childcare Internship
Childcare interns work in our licensed before and after-school childcare center serving children ages 5–22 with special needs. You’ll assist Lead Teachers with supervision, art projects, daily activity preparation, and classroom setup — and engage participants through games, music, puzzles, and outdoor play.
Requirements:
- Must be 18 or older
- Complete a Childcare Volunteer Application
- Submit clear TB test results
- Meet with the Lead Teacher prior to starting
- Background check required if serving more than 4 hours per week
Availability: Monday–Friday, 6:30–8:30 AM and 2:30–6:30 PM. Interns typically work 2–4 hours per week. Spots are limited each semester.
Equestrian Internship
Equestrian interns gain experience at a PATH Premier Accredited center, working with both our horses and our clients. Over the course of your internship you’ll rotate through four key areas:
- Barn Buddies: Feed and water horses, clean stalls — an excellent introduction to horse care
- Grooming Gang: Groom and bathe horses, assist with equipment maintenance
- Lesson Aide: Walk alongside clients, learn to lead horses, assist with grooming and turn-out
- Saturday Program: An immersive shift covering all aspects of the ranch
Requirements:
- Must be 14 or older
- Complete an Equestrian Volunteer Application
- Attend a mandatory Volunteer Orientation (held every 6–8 weeks)
Review our Equine Volunteer Handbook
2026 Summer Horse Camp Internship
Join us for an unforgettable work experience combining children, horses, and hands-on service. Summer interns assist with Horse Camp sessions — working with riders ages 5 to adult, disabled and able-bodied alike.
Details:
- Dates: June 29 – August 3, 2026
- Sessions: Six 1-week sessions, Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Mandatory Training: June 24, 2026, 9:00 AM–12:00 PM
- Age Requirement: Must be at least 14 years old by June 28, 2026
- Spots: Limited to 15 interns per week; interns may serve 1–4 weeks
- Application Deadline: Received no later than Saturday, June 6, 2026
What you’ll do: Assist with grooming, tacking, and leading horses, humane education, basic vet care, stable management, and supporting instructors during riding classes. Training is provided for all positions.
What to bring: Your own lunch, refillable water bottle, and snacks.
Recognition & Rewards:
- Certificate of Recognition presented at the Annual Western Hoedown (October 10, 2026) — interns and a guest are invited
- Nomination for the President’s Volunteer Service Award (based on age and hours served)
- $200 riding scholarship for each week of full-time service
Frequently Asked Questions
If you serve four hours or less per week, no. If you wish to serve more than four hours per week, a background check is required.
The Lead Teacher will help ensure this is a good fit for both you and our center — including a tour of the facility and the chance to meet some of our children.
Yes. We are limited in the number of interns we can accept each semester. Reach out early to secure your spot.
No. All interns must attend a Volunteer Orientation before starting. Orientations are held every six to eight weeks so there’s always one coming up.
Durable closed-toe shoes and full-length pants or jeans.
Yes. We regularly coordinate with local colleges to ensure your hours and duties meet your course requirements.
That’s exactly what this internship is for. We provide the training and mentorship to help you feel confident and effective in your role.
While most of our interns are college students, we do work with high school students. Contact us to discuss a placement.
Other Ways to Get Involved
Care Program Volunteers
Support children, adults, and veterans in our licensed care programs.
Equine Volunteers
Work alongside our horses and certified instructors in the arena.
Service Projects
Join a group service day to help maintain and beautify the ranch.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you’re fulfilling a degree requirement or looking for meaningful experience in an inclusive setting, we’d love to have you at the ranch. Reach out to our Volunteer Coordinator to find the right fit.
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