Our apprenticeship ambassador, Emilia Bishop, updates us on her recent experiences, including competitions, events, and the exciting addition of a new qualification to her journey!
Hi everyone! I hope you all had a good Christmas and New Year! I have had a busy couple of months since my last blog, and I have lots to update you on!
Firstly, I am very excited to announce that I have been selected for the British Equestrian Young Professionals Programme – a brilliant opportunity which will really help me progress in my equine journey. The programme is designed to support the personal and career development of young people in the equestrian industry who have their own business or are looking to start one in the future. I will keep you up to date with my progress throughout the coming months.
I have also started a new apprenticeship with Educ8 in Level 3 Social Media for Business. I have passed my first module, and I am currently working through the remainder. The course is providing me with the skills to utilise social media to its fullest potential, and the knowledge on how to effectively promote both myself and my future business. I am really enjoying the qualification, and I would highly recommend to anyone interested in this area.
In November, myself and my young horse, Dennis, took part in a 2-day training course with Olympic Dressage judge Stephen Clarke. This was Dennis’ first stay away from home, and he behaved impeccably! The following week I took Dennis to my final show of 2023 at Onley Equestrian Centre. He produced his best test to date, scoring just under 70% in the Novice 23 test. It was a mistake free and forward-thinking test, which is what we have been working on at home and in training.
In late November, I attended the British Dressage National Convention. It was an amazing two-day event, featuring educational sessions from several top industry professionals including Charlotte Dujardin, Carl Hester, Gareth Hughes, and Laura Tomlinson. There were a range of horses, spanning from youngsters to those performing at Grand Prix level, who were ridden and taught throughout both days.
At the end of the year, collectively with Beanie’s owner, we made the decision to retire him. Having been my riding companion for over two years, our last show together was in October at Addington. We rode a good, confident test in the Advanced Medium 98. He is a horse that has taught me a lot, and I will miss him dearly. He is now enjoying a quieter life, with lots of field time!
In February I have the Prelim Gold Regional Championships to look forward to with Dennis. I have one show planned beforehand to help us prepare; I will let you all know how it went in my next blog!
You can read Emilia’s previous blogs here.
Keep up-to-date with Emilia’s journey by following her Instagram.
If you’d like to know more about our courses in the equine industry, please get in touch here.