British Dressage celebrates National Apprenticeship Week with growth of newly launched programme

To mark National Apprenticeship Week 2023 (6 – 12 February), British Dressage is celebrating the growth of its industry leading apprenticeship programme ran in partnership with Sport Structures. 

Following the launch of British Dressage Apprenticeships in August 2022, we are delighted to report the growth of the initiative with the first cohort of apprentices beginning their employment-based studies. 

Ran in partnership with Sport Structures, the programme offers a series of nationally recognised qualifications delivered into a vocational setting. The tailored opportunities allow apprentices to acquire the knowledge they need to succeed in the industry, developing their skills and achieving a qualification whilst gaining all important experience in the equestrian workplace.  

The fully bespoke packages offer the opportunity to explore equestrian or business routes, with qualifications from Level 2 to Level 5 depending on the apprentice’s experience and existing qualifications. The courses have been carefully selected to meet our strategic aims in developing well-rounded professionals within the dressage workforce, from achieving optimum best practice in horse welfare and care, to successful business management and marketing. Learning extends beyond the text books with added value experiences and the support of allocated mentors, alongside the chance for apprentices to link up with wider BD qualifications and pathways in coaching, judging and officiating. 

Whilst the equestrian-focused qualifications are curated with dressage at their core, the opportunities are open to any with an interest in horse care and sport meeting the goal of an inclusive route into the industry, fulfilling the need for improved access for those without the means or background. 

BD Training & Education Manager Charlotte Osborne commented: “we’re delighted to see the first apprentices taking the step towards a qualification with the BD Apprenticeship programme. We believe that this opportunity is unique in offering an inclusive route into equestrian employment, and we’re looking forward to the continued growth of the programme in 2023 with the continued support of Sport Structures.” 

Simon Kirkland, Founder and executive chair at Sport Structures, added: “What we’re aiming to provide is training for staff and those employed in the sporting landscape that may not have the quality or central training resource that large organisations may have. It’s about providing training that’s affordable and capitalises on the provisions already in place, whilst supporting the development of the organisation and its people. We’re delighted with the interest and uptake from British Dressage employers and apprentices, and look forward to building on a fantastic partnership.” 

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