What’s it like to study equine through an influencer’s eyes

I often think of the paths not taken; the roads not followed – those ‘sliding doors’ moments that could have changed the course of my life entirely. I have an amazing job in marketing that I love, but as a teenager I spent hours on yards, enjoying my passion for horses. As an adult I have been able to finally afford my own horse thanks to my corporate career, but I do sometimes wonder what would it have been like to pursue a career in the equine industry. When I was asked to visit Bishop Burton - a specialist land-based college, that offers equine studies - I jumped at the chance to take a look at what I could have experienced.

It truly was an eye-opener! Set in 360 hectares there is plenty of room for an amazing cross-country course across the famous undulating Bishop Burton parkland, extensive turnout for the college horses and no less than six arenas! I was so impressed by the constant opportunities for openness and transparency, with students being able to watch and learn as much as possible. Many of the classrooms overlook the main Bishop Burton Arena, which is vast and hosts world-class competitions, workshops and lessons allowing students to observe competitors, specialist equine professionals, fellow students and the expert staff riding.

Students also have access to some incredible facilities including equine spa, solarium and water treadmill all of which have gallery observation spaces. These are not only used by the college horses but also open for commercial use. This means students get to work with horses who have come to the college for rehabilitation including 4* and 5* event horses!

Students also have access to some incredible facilities including equine spa, solarium and water treadmill all of which have gallery observation spaces. These are not only used by the college horses but also open for commercial use. This means students get to work with horses who have come to the college for rehabilitation including 4* and 5* event horses!

A strong emphasis is placed on horse welfare, with the college horses being turned out every day in herds. It was lovely to see them out in fields enjoying being horses! Their stables are their peaceful space – where they are left alone and to provide that distinction there is fantastic separate under-cover provision to accommodate practical lessons. Likewise, there was real commitment to rider fitness and the impact it can have on the horse. With a Rider Fitness Suite and access to commercial gym, students are supported to take care of themselves as part of their education to become the next generation of equine professionals.

In addition to post GCSE college level (Level 1, 2 and 3 A Level equivalent) qualifications, Bishop Burton also offers equine degrees. I will openly confess that I wasn’t aware it was possible to pursue equine studies at university level other than veterinary science. The reality is that students can specialise in anything from health and nutrition to coaching and behaviour and welfare, to therapy and rehabilitation to equine science and business management; providing an entry into a wealth of diverse equine careers.

The qualifications are designed to nurture and develop skills students will use as equine professionals so the way in which students are taught is completely different to my own experiences as a horse owner and hobby rider. Students are supported to be analytical - assessing and training horses and evaluating their own and peers’ riding. Students are also exposed to a variety of disciplines to explore and develop these skills in a wide range of contexts to give them a holistic experience; reinforcing theory-based classroom work ensuring the student is a well-rounded professional

Discover more about our college level equine courses or degree level programmes