Equine

Hayley Egan

Hayley Egan joined the National Trade Academy Telford Certificate in Equine Studies Level 3 Course in 2007 to further her knowledge and skills in the equine industries sector. After 38 weeks, Hayley graduated with the Telford Certificate Level 3 and also the National Certificate in Equine 'Stable Practice' Level 3.

"I had a great time on the course and really enjoyed the things we learnt. The tutor was great and the facilities were excellent."

The Telford Certificate is designed to prepare students like Hayley for entry into the Equine Industry. The course also provides an excellent basis to progress into more specialised areas of the industry.

Jennifer Taylor

Jennifer has always had a keen interest in horses, and throughout her high school years thought of working with them for a career. She joined NTA in 2007 on the Level 2 National Certificate in Equine Skills Land Based Course. During this time Jennifer honed her skills working with horses and progressed to the Level 3 Telford Certificate in 2008.

"I really enjoy working with horses and these courses give me the opportunity to do what I love and earn money at the same time. It's practical and the theory components give me the knowledge I need to succeed in a career in the equine industries."

Alex Searles

Retail saddlery positions are always keenly sought but Alex Searles was lucky enough to secure a full time position with Canterbury Equestrian at Templeton. She started this job immediately on completing the Stable Practice Level 3 course.

Alex works 5 days a week, and works each second Saturday. She has two mornings per week off which are mostly spent re-training her chestnut thoroughbred gelding, the former successful racehorse Music Man.

The saddlery work requires Alex to have a good knowledge of all types of saddlery and equipment. As well as dealing directly with customers Alex is responsible for ordering stock, helping with trade stands at show etc and also assists with repairs - riveting, making new cover straps, cutting out covers etc.

Alex's advice to anyone keen on working in a saddlery is for them to learn as much as possible about all the products, particularly types of bits, covers, saddles and show gear etc.

Shawn Valpy

The equine industry offers many opportunities for self employment. Shawn Valpy of Springfield, a graduate of both the Stable Practice Level 3 and the Sport Horse Level 4 courses has established has own business breaking in your horses, schooling and assisting clients with problems such as floating etc.

Already a competent horseman when he enrolled with the National Trade Academy Ltd, Shawn credits the course with giving him the confidence to speak authoritatively to clients, as well as dispelling many of the myths surrounding horses.

Shawn has found a real demand for his work with an advert placed in a local paper keeping his phone very busy.