courses & careers
Theory or practical – or both?
A successful career in the equestrian industry depends on a number of different factors, including a bit of luck now and again, but underpinning it is undoubtedly a credible combination of theoretical and practical training and experience. In the current, highly competitive employment market, both formal qualifications and relevant ‘hands on’ experience to prove you can do what your dream job requires are increasingly essential to attract the attention of prospective employers. There are many potential job opportunities for those focused on a career in the equestrian industry, but the rewards can be variable and no-one should ever think that working with horses, which require 24-hour care every day, is an easy option! Assuming you choose to pursue a formal course at either a College or University, you’ve already made the first decision, to underpin your future career with a formally recognised qualification that has a significant theoretical element. The amount of practical experience your curriculum involves will depend on the nature of your course, but almost all ‘equine’ courses, from veterinary undergraduates to those aspiring to a career as a professional groom, will teach you more than theory.
Careers advice All students, whatever their chosen course, will have access to a careers advisor and together with tutors and external contacts, this will facilitate opportunities to experience different work placements and listen to talks and demonstrations from individuals already working in different
sectors of the industry. There is also a wealth of information available online and organisations including the British Horse Society, British Grooms Association and the British Equestrian Federation all publish career opportunities and the associated job descriptions will explain the skills and experience needed for a particular role.
Preparing an equestrian CV There are some elements of a credible CV (curriculum vitae) that should be included whatever the post you are applying for, including: • Personal details • Formal qualifications • Previous experience • Volunteering or charity work Then there is the detail that you should ‘tailor’ specifically for the recipient recruiter: • Research your potential employer and explain succinctly why you are interested in the post advertised
• Present your qualifications and experience to maximise their relevance to the job description
• Ensure you include interpersonal skills and strengths – team working for example, or customer service experience, your focus, commitment and ... • An overview of your
equestrian experience, briefly outlining relevant strengths. It goes without saying that spelling and grammar should be accurate – and it should also go without saying that if you have a social media profile, what you post should be commensurate with your career ambitions. You can be sure that prospective employers will check!
Theory and classroom learning are a key part of many equine courses
Continual Professional Development Everyone aspiring to a career in the equine sector should have a plan for continual professional development (CPD) in order to further develop existing skills and learn new ones, as that is the route to climbing the ladder in your chosen career. First Aid qualifications, Safeguarding understanding, Health & Safety legislation, Coaching skills, Accounting, Marketing, Riding qualifications, Physiotherapy, Welfare, Veterinary– the list is long and there are numerous opportunities.
Running your own business If the goal you have is to ultimately run your own equestrian business, then in addition to practical skills and experience, you will need knowledge of accounting, costing your services or product and learning how to sell it and market it to prospective customers.
These skills can be learned through part time or online courses and most local colleges offer support for new business start ups and those with fledgling ideas looking to take their first steps into the world of self employment. You will find all the contacts you need online.
The top paying equine careers Finally, like everyone else, you’re no doubt wondering which are the highest paying equine jobs? Well, in no particular order, here’s a short list of just five areas in which you can aspire to a financially rewarding career ... • Farrier – Depending on experience and location, farrier charge varying amounts for a set of shoes and salaries can range considerably, but a busy farrier can potentially earn a very comfortable amount.
• Veterinary Surgeon – An established practice recognised for particular areas of expertise will command higher rates and geography does play a part.
• Equine Dental Technician – Well trained, appropriately qualified and experienced practitioners are sought after and will net a tidy income.
• Sales Representative – Working with a minimal basic salary and commission structure, high flying sales personnel can earn significant salaries in a number of different equine sectors.
• Stud Manager – Especially in the thoroughbred sector, an experienced stud manager can expect to command a meaningful remuneration.
When the formal education concludes, students need to be as well- equipped as possible for their career of choice
www.theequinesite.co.uk
Caring for every aspect of equine health and wellbeing provides many fulfilling career opportunities
Equine Page 35
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