Our student team in the famous international arena at HOYS
Our student arena party has once again provided a stellar service to the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS), the world’s most famous horse show.
Contracted by Grandstand Media to support the team of international show jumping course designers and other displays for the seventh consecutive year, our team of 37 Level 2 and Level 3 Equine Management students have spent the last week rubbing shoulders with elite riders, trainers and performers.
Described as ‘exceptional’ by lead course designer Bob Ellis, who designs courses for all major shows on the international calendar including the Olympics, our students have been supporting a five day action packed programme of world class show jumping, dressage, showing, Pony Club mounted games, scurry driving and equine entertainment.
As part of this outstanding experience, the students have also had two days of unique health and safety training and emergency drills alongside vets and paramedics – a superb addition to their CVs.
Curriculum Area Manager Kerry Owen, who with equine course manager Jennifer Nash led the team throughout the week, said: “I am so proud of what these students have achieved. Thanks to this opportunity they have learned to manage their time and to work together as a team in a professional manner, which is exactly what the industry expects from them.
“Given the added pressure of working in the international arena, under the spotlights and in front of thousands of spectators, they have delivered a highly professional service and have been wonderful ambassadors for Reaseheath.”
The students were thanked for their mature attitude and seamless service in front of a packed audience each night and the team has already been invited back for HOYS 2018.
Said Bob Ellis: “Yet again, Reaseheath’s arena party has been exceptional and has helped us to put on a superb show. All the students have shown great team work, have listened to instructions and have a great sense of humour. They are a credit to the college and to the equine staff, who do such a great job in keeping everyone motivated because they lead from the front.”
Student Emily Higgins who met top showjumpers John Whittaker among other ‘stars’, said: “We’ve had an amazing time. It’s been hard work but we’ve had such a lot of fun. I never thought this would be part of my course!”
Meanwhile sisters Georgia and Emily Mitchell used their HOYS opportunity to gain further industry experience with Atkinson Action Horses, one of the show’s main acts. The students will spend a week at Easter working alongside the stunt and film riders at their base in East Yorkshire, and at other events.
Reaseheath equine students also regularly provide the arena parties for other prestigious events including Bolesworth International, British Showjumping’s National Championships and the Royal Windsor Horse Show. All students are invited to apply to join the arena parties.
Click these links for further details about our Equine Diplomas and Equine Degrees.
