We were delighted to recently speak with international dressage rider Gemma Moss and her fantastic apprentice, Charlotte Brown, who is currently completing her level 2 equine groom apprenticeship with us.  Charlotte is relatively new to the equine industry, but she has already competed in her first regionals and achieving great results.
We caught up with them to get a glimpse into their working relationship and find out how our apprenticeship programme has helped Charlotte with her progress and ambitions.
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Charlotte says, “I really didn’t enjoy college and absolutely loved work, so I asked Gemma if she would consider me as an apprentice so that I could gain the skills needed to have a career with horses. I started my level 2 equine groom apprenticeship with Haddon Training in March 2020.
I’ve been competing properly for about two years now too and I love it! I’ve had so much fun with my current horse, Greenacres Alaska (aka Benson). Last year we did so much: our first preliminary regionals placing 6th, our first Petplan Equine Summer Area Festival Championships where we placed 10th in the novice category, and our first Sheepgate Under 25 Championship Event where I placed in the top ten every day!
Competition has always been something I wanted to do since I started riding – it was originally showjumping but I quickly learnt I was much better at dressage. The dedicated team at Gemma Moss Equestrian and I have put in so much hard work and it really has paid off.
Haddon Training’s apprenticeship works well for me because all the subjects on the syllabus are so important and interesting to learn about. It also allows me to have time for my riding and progress that at the same time! Sometimes it can be stressful and challenging to learn so many new things, because horses are amazing and complex animals, however, that’s what makes you grow in your role.  You need to push through to achieve your goals and the results are so rewarding!  If you have a love for horses, consider an apprenticeship because you won’t be disappointed!
I have so many amazing people and trainers supporting me all the way and pushing me to be the best I can be.  I have already planned my next ambition, which is to buy a young horse and produce it through the levels myself. I would like to go and do the young horse classes and really build up an amazing partnership with them!”
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Gemma says, “Working as a team is so important in this industry. It’s not always straightforward and having good supportive people in your corner makes all the difference! A sense of humour makes the long dark winter days seem brighter!
We are a busy yard; currently my goal is to produce the horses I have in training to Grand Prix. I have talented horses with great owners that I feel could go all the way. My passion is training horses, whatever their level, with correct basics! I have also invested in a breeding programme and have bred some exciting youngsters for the future at Spring House Stud.
Employing apprentices works well for me because it’s all work-based learning, taking place on the yard. Being a busy competition yard and Haddon Training being fully mobile and adaptable to our needs makes a huge difference.
As an employer the more time and commitment you put in to your employees, the more you get out. If you work hard, you will make people want to invest in you. Working with horses is a rewarding and challenging career, no day is ever the same, and if you love horses and enjoy the outdoors, it may be the career for you!”
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For more information on our equine apprenticeships, click here to contact us.