British Dressage Apprenticeships FAQ
We have put together a list of frequently asked questions on how you can get involved in the BD Apprenticeship programme, covering eligibility, roles available and benefits.
How do I know an apprenticeship is the right choice?
Taking part in an apprenticeship can help you get on the job training and experience along side achieving your qualification. If you are trying to decide if A-levels, College, University or even a career change is ahead, take a look at the Sport Structures website website to find out more about the benefits of apprenticeships.
What if I'm already in employment?
Our BD Apprenticeship Programme is open to all applicants whether you’re a long-term employee, new to the job, or applying for a new role. You may be looking to start your apprenticeship journey from a vacancy on our Employment Board, or are currently employed and looking to gain a qualification in your current role where your employer meets our apprenticeship employer criteria, get in touch to find out more about the apprenticeship options for you.
What are the associated costs?
To be an apprentice means that you will be able to receive a wage whilst you gain your qualification. The majority of the apprenticeship course is funded by the government, depending on your employers annual income, there is the possibility that 100% of the course fees are paid through government funding.
How do I know which equestrian route I want to take?
We advise you to take a look at the exciting course content to familiarise yourself with what each programme has to offer and to understand if it's the best option for you.
It is important to pick something you feel motivated and passionate to get involved in.
If you still have access to a careers advisor through your school, sixth-form or college, try booking a careers appointment to discuss your options in more detail to create a plan of action for your next steps.
Do I have to own a horse or ride to take part in a BD apprenticeship?
No! Our apprenticeships are carefully designed with Sport Structures to be inclusive. Our apprenticeship options expand further beyond equine horse care and include avenues such as marketing, business administration and more. We want to highlight that BD apprenticeships are for everyone, from beginners with basic horse knowledge to fully seasoned competing members. To succeed with an apprenticeship, you must have passion and a willingness to learn!
Is riding part of your course?
You can select either a ridden or non-ridden Equine Groom option at both Level 2 and Level 3.
How do I know if I'm eligible to apply?
- All applicants must be over the age of 16
- Have proof of UK residency
- Have a GCSE/Functional skills in English and Maths
- If you reside in other areas of the UK you can still take advantage of the British Dressage Apprenticeship Scheme.
How do I know if my Employer is eligible to apply?
Your employer must be:
- An equine industry business
- Must be able to demonstrate technical knowledge to support the learning of an apprentice; BD Listed 3 Judge or above, BD Level 3 coach, meet competition criteria such as Advanced Medium, PSG and GP.
- Other qualifications not listed above but of similar qualifications will be considered and employers should contact a member of the team.
How long do they take?
Apprenticeships are a great way to learn at your own pace. With the flexibility and nature of the qualification there is no hard deadline to complete it by. Below is a general timetable of the length of time taken to complete each type of apprenticeship.
- Level 2: minimum of 12-18 months
- Level 3: up to 24 months
- Level 4-5: 1-4+ years
How will I be assessed?
- Knowledge test assessments
- Oral assessments
- Presentations
- Workplace observations
- Practical tasks
- Knowledge and understanding task
What additional benefits will I gain from completing an apprenticeship with British Dressage?
You will have a designated course tutor to help guide you through your apprenticeship qualification. They will deliver your non-practical learning and will help guide you through your coursework.
Alongside the qualification, work experience and appropriate remuneration, all equestrian specific apprenticeships will include the BD Youth Horse Care (both online and practical). There will also be dressage specific added value activities throughout the year for all our BD apprentices, with the option for business focused activities for those on the equestrian business apprenticeships.
Added value sessions include opportunities to indulge in exclusive seminars with industry professionals and learn about behind the scenes running of National competitions.
Opportunities to visit home CDI competitions will provide apprentices with a comprehensive understanding of International shows and how these compare to National shows. Those on business apprenticeship routes will also receive hands on experience from BD HQ staff and our programme workforce with specialisms in course relevant business topics.
The course is bespoke to you. You can personalise it as much or as little as you wish within the realm of what BD has to offer. This is a highly unique opportunity to study with BD and we will support you throughout this journey where ever we can and provide access to resources you can't find anywhere else!
How do I register my interest?
Register your interest here to keep up-to-date with BD apprenticeships.
