The academic staff were incredibly supportive throughout my degree. The tutors made a real effort to get to know each student individually, including their aims and ambitions for the future. I always felt the tutors were very invested in the student's journey and pushed you to strive for a little bit more. I was encouraged to go for BHS exams and was supported with extra training for them if required.
My course enabled me to progress through the BHS exam system, and ultimately gain my teaching qualifications to become a full-time freelance rider and coach. The knowledge I gained within the course has proven invaluable daily, from equine management and understanding of coaching theory including psychology, physiology and biomechanics when teaching clients, to the finer details of setting up my own yard and running my business.
I particularly liked the balance of practical work with theory. I am very academically minded and loved getting stuck into the theory-based modules, however, it was great to have the chance to put into practice what you had learnt into the practical sessions and gain immediate feedback from tutors and peers.
I have set up my own yard since graduating and am able to take in horses on schooling and breaking livery, alongside training and competing a variety of horses for clients on a freelance basis. I currently compete horses for owners up to Advanced Medium BD, and BE and BS grassroots. The knowledge gained on the course has been invaluable for this role, whether it be understanding how the horse’s conformation, anatomy and any injuries may influence the way I need to train, to a greater understanding of behaviour, nutrition, tack choice and fit.
I would recommend University Centre Bishop Burton to anyone serious about a career in the equine industry. The academic team were incredibly supportive in encouraging me to strive for greatness and helping me achieve my goals.
