As part of National Apprenticeship Week, we’re featuring Alton Piece Equestrian Centre, a family-run riding school in the Worcestershire countryside built on a lifelong passion for horses. Run by mother-and-daughter team Adele and Molly, the centre offers a welcoming environment for riders of all ages, with everything from lessons and pony days to therapy sessions. We spoke to Adele about her journey in the industry, how apprenticeships have become part of the business, and her experience working with Haddon Training.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself, your history in the industry and your business?
We’re Adele and Molly, mother and daughter, and together we run Alton Piece Equestrian Centre in Rock, Worcestershire. Having always worked with horses as a coach, rider, and groom, Adele opened Alton Piece in April 2005. Molly was always involved in the running of the riding school while growing up, and joined the business full time after leaving school in 2014. Alton Piece is a family-friendly riding school, offering group lessons, private lessons, pony days, birthday parties, horse therapy sessions and more. We pride ourselves on being a friendly, welcoming environment, getting to know our clients personally and having a team of hand-selected, quality horses and ponies who are well suited to their roles and enthusiastic about their job.
When did you first start hiring apprentices, and what motivated you to take this step?
In 2012, one of our lovely weekend yard volunteers asked if we would consider taking her on as an apprentice, and it started from there. Molly actually completed an apprenticeship at Alton Piece when she finished school, which gave her a great foundation and the confidence to go on to achieve further qualifications within the industry.
What benefits have you seen in your business from having apprentices on your team?
The apprentices we have worked with at Alton Piece have been enthusiastic, bubbly and keen to learn. Having the support of the apprenticeship scheme ensures your employee is knowledgeable and has a broad skill set. We’re very proud that our stables has inspired someone’s vocation, and given them that initial confidence to take the first steps into what could be a lifetime’s career.
How has your experience been working with Haddon Training?
This is our first year facilitating an apprenticeship through Haddon Training. We have received exceptional support from Haddon, and the training for our apprentice is very thorough. All of the staff we have come into intact with have been professional, approachable and gone the extra mile to ensure everything runs smoothly. We wouldn’t hesitate to take on another apprentice through Haddon Training, or to recommend Haddon to anyone considering an apprenticeship with horses.
Find out more about are equine apprenticeships and qualifications here.
Are you a business that is looking to hire an apprentice? Please get in touch with us here.
