Below, we answer your frequently asked questions about our Apprenticeship in Equestrian Sporting Excellence (AESE), providing you with essential information on what the program entails, who it’s for, and how it can support your journey as an equestrian athlete.
What is AESE?
AESE is a unique apprenticeship focused on the development and skills of you as an elite athlete. It is equivalent to A-Level standard and is recognised as an official education option for those aged 16-18.
As an apprenticeship, athletes will need to be employed to participate and if required we can help you to find an appropriate employer to support you whilst on AESE.
Who is AESE for?
AESE is built for equestrian athletes in Showjumping, Eventing, Dressage and Para-Dressage who are already competing at the required level.
Where can I study AESE?
AESE is based in England.
You study at your chosen place of work and there are also six camps throughout the course of a year that you attend with your horse(s), enabling you to work with specialist Coaches to embed your skills. These camps are always held within England and our team can advise on where and when these are planned for 2024/2025.
Do I need to own a horse?
No, but you will need a ride on a horse, whether it’s an employer’s horse, loan, lease or own, that you are competing with, for at least the duration of the course.
What does it involve?
Throughout the course you will grow and develop skills to enhance your abilities as an athlete, and by being employed you’ll be able to embed the practical skills you’re learning. As you expand your knowledge, you record your development within an electronic portfolio, supported by your Trainer Coach.
At camp, our specialist team will also guide you through advanced technical and tactical skills to improve overall competition performance, which will be monitored by yourself and our team. You will utilise tools such as a nutrition diary, or strength and conditioning plans and have time for discussion and reflection on what you have learnt. Our well-rounded approach also includes modules to support you mentally at competitions and enhance your social media and website management, professional communication, and interview skills.
Upon completion of AESE you are assessed by an independent assessment organisation who will review your e-portfolio, speak with you, and watch you perform some of the skills you have learnt, before deciding on your grading. You are fully supported throughout this process and will only be assessed when you and your Trainer Coach feel you are ready.
What will I learn?
The core subjects of AESE comprise of:
- Career and self-development
- Communication
- Lifestyle and personal development
- Nutritional performance
- Tactical skills
- Technical skills
- Physical performance
- Psychological and emotional performance
- Safe practice
Who will I meet?
Throughout the course you will be supported by a designated Trainer Coach and a specialist team of discipline-focused Coaches, led by Corinne Bracken. During your time at camps, you will also meet like-minded athletes and sector-specific experts, enabling you to grow and expand your professional network. To name some of the coaches who may be supporting you: Charlie Hutton, Andrew Saywell, Nicola Mcleish, Matt Lanni, Targa Hammond and David prior. We have many other visiting coaches specialising in BE/BD and BS who attend camps for further specialist training.
Am I eligible?
Athletes from across Showjumping, Eventing, Dressage and Para-Dressage are encouraged to check our eligibility criteria which can be found here.
We are an inclusive organisation and athletes who are competing at a level below, or feel that they are close to the criteria, should continue to apply and we can assess on a case-by-case basis.
How do I apply?
You can apply here with a short application form and one of our team will be in touch.
