New course announced with aim to fend off stable staff crisis

Racing charity HEROS and Abingdon & Witney College have announced an initiative aimed at recruiting stable staff to the industry via a new course, with the opportunity to study up to a Level 3 qualification, which is the equivalent of an A level.

It has been made possible with assistance from the National Trainers Federation (NTF), Careers in Racing and the BHA, along with a grant from the Racing Foundation.

One of the aims is to address the shortage of stable staff in the sport and students will be able to use facilities at the college and at the HEROS base close to Lambourn.

Applications are being invited for September and Pam Wilsher, head of faculty at Abingdon & Witney College, said: "The new college model offers a refreshing approach for students to gain industry-specific experience alongside developing generic equestrian knowledge and riding skills.

"Courses will involve daily riding, yard work and theory sessions, including one-day-a-week placements with local trainers for the duration of the course."

Eleanor Boden of HEROS described the course as a real opportunity for people not suited by traditional apprenticeships, while Shelley Perham, recruitment and training co-ordinator at the NTF, said: "The NTF is pleased that the course will equip new recruits with the skills trainers require from them.

"In turn, we will be supporting the project by assisting our members to offer the valuable work experience that students require."

There is an open day from 10am-2pm at the HEROS headquarters in Fawley on Saturday, and further information is available from enquiries@abingdon-witney.ac.uk.