Friends turn passion for horses into business (From Worcester News)

Friends turn passion for horses into business

9:10am Monday 2nd July 2012 in Equestrian

HORSE-mad friends Tracy Cooper and Lin Marriott Lodge have turned their passion into a business.

Their venture Equitrain, in partnership with Kidderminster College, is an alternative to fulltime college courses for students, giving them experience with real horses on real yards as apprentices.

Equitrain has evolved as a result of many years research into the training of equestrian students.

“We are passionate about raising standards in the workplace and providing quality training to students committed to a career in equestrianism,” explained Lin, who achieved her BHSA1 before going on to become groom for a member of the Great Britain junior team and young riders teams. One thing that stands out from research is that it is essential that organisations operate an environment which reflects a realistic work environment and by doing so it will ensure that any competence achieved will be sustained in real employment.”

“Apprenticeships give an opportunity for students to put theory into practice and gain actual skills in horse care and management. We are lucky to have made a business out of our passion.”

On completion of an apprenticeship framework, students will either be able to move into permanent employment with the employer they trained with, or have qualifications and employment history to enhance their CV.

Equitrain has formed a unique partnership with Kidderminster College to deliver qualifications starting at foundation level one in horse care for learners with little or no previous experience. On completion, learners then have an opportunity to progress into work on the Apprenticeship Programme of training. This will last for a minimum of 12 months with one day per week release for college and practical training.

The intermediate level apprenticeship incorporates the level two diploma in work-based horse care. Successful completion of this will not only enable students to develop skills and competencies in a variety of equestrian environments, but will allow them direct entry to other recognised qualifications, such as some British Horse Society examinations.

The level three diploma in workbased horse care and management (advanced apprenticeship) is an 18-month course with one day per month release for college and practical training. There is a strong emphasis on leadership, business and management skills.

Equitrain actively seeks employers wishing to benefit from an enhanced workforce, and works closely with employers and students to ensure a smooth transition into the world of work for our learners. This is supported by the latest Government initiative of the Apprenticeship Grant for Employers.

For more information, call 01562 826515 or e-mail apprenticeships@ kidderminster.ac.uk.

If you are an employer, call 01562 826501.