We’ve recently welcomed dressage rider, Jess Coltman to our growing team of industry experienced equine Trainer Coaches. We caught up with her to discuss her exciting career and how her experience as a former apprentice has helped shape her new role with us.
“I was fortunate enough to have grown up around horses. When I finished my GCSE’s I went to Moulton College and while I was studying there I was also selected for the Dressage Academy with Harry Payne, which is where my love for dressage began. During summer holidays I also had the fantastic opportunity to complete work experience with dressage rider Judy Harvey, which made me realise this is the area that I wanted to do focus on.
After finishing college, I chose to complete a Level 3 Horse Care and Management apprenticeship through Haddon Training with Anna Ross at her international dressage yard. I decided an apprenticeship would be a great way to learn more about the equine industry whilst getting real hands-on experience. I learnt valuable skills and knowledge which I carry with me, including the day to day running of a professional yard, competition planning and grooming, as well as the importance of working well as a team.
Once I successfully completed my apprenticeship, I accepted a full-time position with Anna and worked my way up to International Groom over a couple of years. I had amazing opportunities travelling all over Europe. Anna was on the nominated list for the Rio Olympics in 2016 and it was an amazing experience to be part of the build up to such a high-profile event. Whilst still based with Anna I was also given the opportunity to ride a horse named Korenbloom Middlemarch who took me from riding at Novice level to PSG. He taught me so much, which I have taken on board and used when training my two current horses.
Ever since studying on my apprenticeship, I thought the role of a Trainer Coach would be an amazing job to have, and one that I would really like to progress into. I personally experienced the benefit of receiving great advice and knowledge from my own expert Trainer Coach, Alex Hubbard. I really enjoy teaching and training and having reached where I want to be with my dressage, I now feel ready to pass on my knowledge and experience to learners who are starting out with their own careers. I feel very fortunate to have walked in their shoes as an apprentice myself and to know and understand from their perspective what these qualifications can do for them.
I still maintain my love for dressage and continue to achieve in competitions; I competed at the 2020 British Dressage Winter Championships and was placed in the Advanced Medium Freestyle, and at the 2021 British Dressage Petplan Area Festival Championships at Intermediate 1 was placed just outside the top ten after only doing the test four times previously. I think it’s every dressage riders dream to ride in their tailcoat at a Championship show and this was a great achievement for me!
I’m now completing my Level 4 Assessor Coach qualification as I develop into my new role. I’m so passionate about supporting learners and employers in the best way possible. I want them all to be able to pick up the phone and ask me anything! I know first-hand what an incredible place the equestrian world is and look forward to helping others on their journey.”
Thank you so much Jess for taking the time to speak to us. We know how much the next generation will appreciate your support and guidance!
If you would like to know more about our equine apprenticeships and how we can help you to begin or progress your career, simply contact our friendly team.