Emy
Pierce

Why did you choose to study your course at Brackenhurst?

Tell us more about your course. What do you enjoy studying the most?

My favourite part of the course is my practical sessions and yard days, I love that so much of the qualification is hands on and I can gain real experiences alongside the classroom knowledge I’ve been given. As part of the qualification, we work an early morning and evening on the yard every week alongside a weekend day every three weeks. These days are some of my favourites because weekends are much more laid back and very fun.

What do you think about the facilities available on your course and what do you use the most?

The facilities for my course are great, because of the large indoor school we have plenty of space for everyone to use the school in winter when the weather doesn't let us go outside. We also have access to a mechanical horse which is a brilliant tool and has helped me and my friends practice both our ridden and coaching skills.

What do you think about Brackenhurst Campus? What do you get up to in your spare time?

I spend most of my spare time in the Farmhouse with my friends, it’s a big house with lots of quiet spaces and a lovely place to hang out, especially in winter. If I’m not there then I’m hanging out on the yard with Griffin the cat.

Have you had any support from other departments? How was your experience accessing these/ was the service helpful?

What is your top tip for someone considering studying at Brackenhurst Campus?

Brackenhurst is in the countryside and there are a lot of practical lessons which take place outside it’s vital to have a good coat and boots or wellies to get through the winter. We work outside in all weathers which is part of the appeal for me because I love being outside doing hands on work.

Have you been involved in any placements, work experience or volunteering as part of your course? If so, what did you do and what did you achieve?

In both years of the course, we do work experience on the yard. During second year we undertake a weekly work experience alongside the work at college. I did some of mine at a local welfare charity which gave me the opportunity to experience more of the welfare side of the industry. The rest of my work experience has been on the yard at Brackenhurst, I’ve been given a lot more responsibilities and work to do but I love my work experience. The yard staff have been helping me build my practical skills and confidence with work.

Why would you recommend your course to someone considering studying it?

I plan to stay at Brack for university and continue studying equine science. All of the staff on my course have been helping me to prepare for university and make sure I get the grades to get in. They’ve helped make the university application process virtually stress free for me and I’m fully confident that they’ve prepared me to continue my education.