It’s Good Employment Week! This week, we’re highlighting employers who excel in creating environments that support growth, development, and success for their teams. Today, we’re featuring Alec Miles Equestrian. Through his business, Alec has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to nurturing young talent and providing opportunities for apprentices to thrive, setting a high standard for employment practices in the equestrian industry.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself, your history in the industry and your business?
I’m Alec. I started out as a mechanic, but my journey into the equine industry began when I met someone who was passionate about horses. That sparked my interest, and I decided to learn to ride—which I didn’t start until I was 26. I earned my BHSI certifications and went on to create my business in 1999. One of the things I’m most proud of is that I did it all independently. I paid for my own lessons, bought my own horse, and built my career from the ground up without any help.
When did you first start hiring apprentices, and what motivated you to take this step?
We began working with Haddon Training in 2010. Apprentices may come into the industry without any specific skills, but that’s also the beauty of it—you can train them and shape their development to suit your business.
What benefits have you seen in your business from having apprentices on your team?
We’ve had apprentices join us for work experience, and some ended up staying long-term. One stayed with us for seven years! Many of them have gone on to pursue careers as veterinary nurses and in various other fields.
Having apprentices benefits both parties. It’s a fantastic way to give young people a strong start in their careers while also contributing to the success of the business. Even those who may not initially be confident riders have excelled in other areas, like grooming, with some even grooming at an international level.
What advice would you give to an employer who is thinking about hiring an apprentice?
I would definitely recommend hiring apprentices to anyone in the industry. Having someone local who is eager to learn and pursue an apprenticeship is a valuable opportunity. It’s not always about what they know when they start—it’s about their attitude and willingness to grow.
Find out more about our equine and animal care qualifications here.
Are you a business that is looking to hire an apprentice? Please get in touch with us here.
