Talented instructor awarded BHS training bursary

A talented instructor at our Equestrian Centre has been awarded a British Horse Society (BHS) training bursary to further her career.

Rachel Smith is one of just two applicants from the north west to receive a £2,500 BHSII (Intermediate Instructors) Development Scholarship this year. The scholarship supports inspirational individuals who the awarding panel feel will make a difference to the future of the equestrian industry.

Rachel, who teaches our Level 2 and Level 3 Extended Diploma students and Key Stage 4 pupils, is a BHS Assistant Instructor and already has her BHS Intermediate Instructor qualification in Stable Management plus an Achievement in Education and Training (AET).  She is also a member of the BHS Accredited Professional Coach Scheme. She will use her bursary to study for her Stage 4 Riding and Intermediate Instructor Teaching qualifications, enabling her to become a fully qualified BHS Intermediate Instructor.

Rachel, who comes from Liverpool, works at our BHS Approved Equestrian Centre for two days a week and teaches at a riding school in Manchester for the rest of the week. Passionate about horses and riding since childhood, she spent 12 years qualifying and teaching at riding schools in Richmond, London.

She has continued to advance her own knowledge by attended our regular jumping and dressage clinics, held by leading riders Tyler Cassells and Chris Pugh, and through lessons with her own trainer. The bursary will enable her to attend BHS trainer days and to afford further specific training.

The BHS launched a series of bursaries in 2016 aimed at supplying the equestrian industry with well qualified and inspirational people. In its first year, £65,000 was released in funding which helped 35 individuals to achieve BHS qualifications. The training initiatives are part-funded in memory of Margot Tiffany, a well respected BHS Instructor.

Said Rachel: “I was delighted to hear I’d been successful in my application. The scholarship will enable me to take the next step up the career ladder. It’s long been my dream to become an BHSII and the funding will enable me to pay for the extra tuition.”