Life beyond college

Careers in the horse world are plentiful and diverse. Sian Lovatt finds out what educational pathways lead where – and it’s not always to the original destination

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BRITAIN'S leading equestrian colleges have long been launchpads into the sport's most recognised professions – jockeys, trainers, stud managers, physiotherapists and beyond. But as the industry evolves, so too do the opportunities. Today's graduates are moving not only into traditional riding and yard roles, but also into science, management, performance analysis, digital media and content creation.

We take a look at how some of our most respected training centres prepare students for diverse, often unexpected career paths. From dressage riders in Germany to equestrian photographers and digital content creators, their former students demonstrate just how far a structured equestrian education can take you.

FROM BRITISH RACING SCHOOL TO DRESSAGE

MANY students arrive dreaming of becoming jockeys – and some do – but British Racing School (BRS) alumni often discover pathways they never knew existed, whether through choice or fate.

Jessica Westgate, 32, yard administrator at the BRS and Newmarket Pony Academy, attended the BRS and graduated in 2010 with a Level 2 diploma in racehorse care and management, later completing the apprentice jockey course in 2014.

“I remember walking into the BRS at their open day and thinking I’d never seen anything like it – I instantly knew that’s where I wanted to go,” Jessica says. “The facilities were and still are amazing.

“I enjoyed the riding most. The BRS is home to around 70 ex-racehorses, so you’re gaining valuable experience riding different horses every day. As you can imagine, this was a dream as a horse-mad teen.