Making a career change
QI’m looking for a change of career, but I don’t want to spend a fortune on going back to university. What are my options? Ryan Clark, Towcester Alex says... The encouraging aspect about the equestrian industry is that many careers are based on practical, hands-on experience and vocational qualifications. Some careers with a scientific or research basis (for example, nutrition or veterinary medicine) do require a university degree, of course, but any career in the industry will be supplemented by achieving BHS qualifications that will help get your foot in the door. The great news is that you can pick this up at any age or stage in your life — you’re never too old to fulfil your passion for horses. A qualification such as the BHS stage two in Complete Horsemanship will give you a strong foundation of skills and knowledge to support any career, or career change, in the industry. It will provide you with many transferable skills such as communication, assertiveness, organisation, time keeping, resilience and confidence that you can pull examples from for any job interview. In any career connected to horses, from journalism and graphic design, to saddlery or farriery, a foundation knowledge in complete horsemanship is recognised throughout the world as a huge advantage. Hands-on approach If it’s a practical career you’re after, such as becoming a coach, groom or professional rider, the BHS Equine Excellence Pathway will provide you with the skills you need without any student loan or tuition fees. The BHS also has a scholarship scheme where you can apply for bursaries towards training and assessment fees towards our Coach in Complete Horsemanship Pathway. With most careers, experience is key when considering if a profession is right for you — and the good news is that volunteering is free. Volunteering, or career shadowing, is a great way to test the waters, gain experience, develop your skills and get your foot in the door. If there is a particular equine career you’re interested in, get in touch with local organisations or professionals you can work with and get stuck in. As a charity, the BHS relies strongly on a network of amazing volunteers that help it fulfil its goals to improve equestrian access, promote safer riding and increase awareness of equine welfare. There really is something for everyone. The most important thing, though, is to pick a career path you’re passionate about.