As we look ahead to Cotswold RDA’s remarkable 60th Anniversary Celebration on July 6th 2025 – we’re shining a spotlight on the extraordinary work they do and our ongoing partnership. Ahead of their milestone, we spoke with Debbie Powell, General Manager at Cotswold RDA, to hear more about the organisation’s inspiring work, the impact of our ongoing partnership and their exciting plans for the future.
Can you give us a brief overview of Cotswold RDA and the work you do?
Cotswold RDA (Riding for the Disabled) operates 6 days a week from our arena, based within the grounds of Cheltenham Racecourse. We offer equine activities to on average 175 participants per week, including riding and mechanical horse lessons, Pony One-to-One and Tea with a Pony sessions. These are all supported by a wonderful team of over 150 volunteers, and 14 special ponies.
What does a typical week look like for you in your role as General Manager?
No two days are the same! I manage the overall site, operations, and team of 8 staff members over two different sites, our arena centre, and charity shop in Longlevens, Gloucester.
What are you most proud of when you think about the work you and your team do?
I feel incredibly privileged to work for such an incredible charity, supported by an amazing team of staff and volunteers. Every day brings its own rewards, seeing and hearing the differences it can make to our participants’ lives.
What impact has your partnership with Haddon Training had on the organisation?
Partnering with Haddon Training has been a real success. Their ongoing support for our learners – including two apprentices and two trainees – has been invaluable. It allows them to develop practical skills and confidence while gaining real-world experience in a working equine yard, all while working toward their professional qualifications. Not to mention the extra support they provide in the arena when we are short on volunteers! It’s so exciting to see the growth of our learners, giving them a good foundation to a career in the equine industry.
What’s next for Cotswold RDA – any exciting plans on the horizon?
We are in the planning stages of developing our existing arena centre, with an extension to the front of the building. This will include two classrooms, new communal kitchen area, a larger room for our Mechanical Horse and also new office spaces. This will greatly enhance the services that we can offer, and very much help to reduce our waiting list.
Find out more about our equine qualifications here.
Are you a business that is looking to hire an apprentice? Please get in touch with us here.
