Equine students make history at 75th Horse of the Year Show

For the 13th year running, a 40-strong student arena party played a pivotal role at this prestigious event. Over the full five days of the show, they worked alongside elite and international show jumping course designers in the international arena, helping with the Future Elite Dressage Championship, the Pony Club mounted games, and the harness scurry. 

Their efforts contributed to a successful event, ensuring smooth transitions for spectators and earning praise from organisers. 

Event Director, Emma Wardell, said: “Reaseheath College never fails to provide the Horse of the Year Show with a trustworthy, efficient arena party. The team are an invaluable asset to the event, and we gladly welcome them back year on year to assist in the running of our show.” 

Beyond practical experience, Reaseheath students also gained invaluable insights into event management. They took part in comprehensive health and safety training alongside vets and paramedics, further enriching their CVs. This view of the show’s behind-the-scenes work is invaluable for aspiring equine industry professionals, especially those wanting to enter event management. 

In line with Reaseheath College’s commitment to innovation, HOYS also marked the launch of an exciting new course, the Level 2 Certificate for Equine Hydrotherapy Assistants. This unique 14-week programme is tailored to the fast-growing equine fitness, rehabilitation, and therapy sector, providing students with hands-on experience. Delivered by specialist staff at two top-class facilities in the heart of Cheshire, the course reflects Reaseheath’s dedication to offering industry focused qualifications that prepare graduates for emerging career opportunities. 

James Rayner, Reaseheath College’s Equine Curriculum Area Manager, stressed the importance of the HOYS partnership.  

He said: “This partnership gives our students a taste of the real world. They develop vital skills and make lasting connections for their careers and contributes to our mission of ‘Industry Focussed, Career Ready’ to provide graduates that enter the equine sector equipped with high impact skills, knowledge and behaviours.” 

The Reaseheath arena party team was a mixture of students who’d impressed at last year’s event, and first-year students who have only been studying at Reaseheath College since September. They were accompanied by equine lecturers Lucy Bexon and Georgina Dickinson. 

Returning student Sam Burns said: “I came to HOYS last year and I really enjoyed it, I’m pleased to be back this year. I’ve been looking forward to building the Leading Showjumper of the Year course at the end of the week; it’s always a favourite class of the year.” 

Hattie Vis said: “This is my first year at HOYS and I’m enjoying helping out, seeing behind the scenes, and helping out with the horses, giving me opportunity to develop skills that I wouldn’t be able to develop at other equine colleges.” 

Reaseheath equine students also regularly provide the arena parties for other prestigious events including The British Dressage National Dressage Championships and Kelsall Hill International Horse Trials. 

For further details about Reaseheath’s equine diplomas and degrees, including the new Equine Hydrotherapy course, visit www.reaseheath.ac.uk/equine