WOULD you like to take part in a new QQI Level 6 Equestrian Stable Manager Traineeship which will enable you to acquire the knowledge, skills and managerial competence to work in a supervisory role within the Equine Industry?

This new full-time, one-year programme, offered by MSLETB Training Centre Ballina, in partnership with Gill’s Equestrian Centre, will provide a unique opportunity to learn and work in a professional equestrian environment and master the necessary skills to manage an equine business.

Barry O’Connor, chair of Sport Horse Alliance, believes that the course has been created at “the right time in relation to the Industry’s needs.” He predicts “a quick increase in the need for skilled workers in the equine sector – no-one with this range of skills will be without a job.”

The traineeship will provide candidates with extensive knowledge of horses and their care, including subjects such as sport horse riding, stable and yard supervision, equine nutrition, anatomy and physiology, horse conformation and evaluation, and HGV driving.

Clem McMahon, of Hilton Farm Stables in Monaghan stated: “The outline of the traineeship looks to tick all the right boxes that will suit racing and competition yards. A great addition is that a truck license is included in the training, this will be of such benefit to a busy yard.”

High demand

Other subjects included in the traineeship are communications and digital marketing skills, both with a focus towards marketing and promoting horses within the industry. The inclusion of a HGV driving licence is of great benefit for stable managers who are required to transport horses to events. Candidates with this wide range of skills are in high demand here in Ireland, all over Europe and the USA.

Enda Carroll of Ashford farm in Belgium said: “Our industry is in desperate need of having well trained horse men/women for all parts of our sector. As the industry is developing and growing at a rapid speed, we do not have enough educated employees that can take over the roles which we need them to do.”

The traineeship model gives participants the opportunity to develop cutting edge skills and knowledge on-the-job, making them more skilled, more employable and enhancing their career options. It also allows employers to access a pipeline of talent and learners.

Cian O’Connor of Karlswood Stables in Meath, believes the traineeship is “a great idea – there is a huge gap in the industry for personnel who can manage a yard or stable when we are away.

“The elements of sport horse riding, horse conformation and evaluation, stable and yard supervision are vital for our industry and I would be more than happy to help with work experience opportunities and mentoring.”

A free information session for interested candidates will take place at 11am Wednesday January 15th, 2020 at Gill’s Driving School and Equestrian Centre, Ballina, Co. Mayo. Places are limited, so pre-booking is essential.

For further information please contact MSLETB Training Centre Ballina: trainingcentreballina@msletb.ie | +353 96 24017

Apply online at https://www.fetchcourses.ie