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Apprenticeship scheme
How to become a BD apprentice
Would you like to learn from the biggest names in British dressage? You could become an apprentice to the likes of top international judge Stephen Clarke or European team silver medallist Richard Davison.
The British Dressage (BD) apprenticeship scheme was launched in 2000 to provide structured training for BD members who want to make a career of dressage. Since 2008, the scheme has been split into four levels: assistant stable manager, stable manager, assistant trainer and trainer. Only the first level, assistant stable manager, is available at the moment.
There is no minimum entry level. You will need to contact one of the BD approved trainers listed below. If they have a placement available, you will be given an assessment. The minimum term is one year, but most apprentices stay for two. You and your trainer will sign a contract provided by us, which stipulates everything from the amount of training you will receive to the hours you are expected to work.
When your trainer thinks you are ready, an external assessor will assess your knowledge of stable management, riding and training of horses and teaching skills. This costs £100 and, provided you pass, you will be awarded a certificate stating that you are a British Dressage Apprenticeship Scheme Graduate.
To take up a placement, you will need to be put forward by one of the approved trainers listed below and send a completed application form together with an application fee of £50 to Ruth Tyler, British Dressage, NAC, Stoneleigh Park, Kenilworth, Stoneleigh, Warwickshire, CV8 2RJ. Click here for more info, including an application form.
BD approved trainers are either on the International Trainers Foundation, BD trainers database in categories international three- and four-star or have competed in a CDIO in the five years before applying. To become an approved trainer, please contact Ruth (tel: 02476 698833).
