Sophie is currently completing her Level 3 Senior Equine Groom apprenticeship at Crabbick Farm, where she is developing her skills, building her confidence and gaining valuable hands-on experience in the equine industry. With a lifelong love of horses and a passion for equine welfare, Sophie is working towards her dream of one day running her own livery yard.
What inspired you to pursue a career with horses?
My inspiration to work with horses stemmed from my love for the sport that I have grown up with, my passion for proper horse care and my desire to make a positive difference in the industry for the benefit of horses and their welfare.
What does a typical day look like for you as an apprentice?
I’m an early riser, so a typical day for me begins at around 6:30am. I ride before work as it puts me in a positive mindset for the rest of the day. I then feed all the horses, bring in the overnight turnouts, turn out the daytime horses, muck out my assigned stables and prepare the feeds.
Throughout the day, I’ll complete any extra jobs around the yard, such as harrowing the arenas, setting up the dressage arena or showjumping course, exercising horses or general yard maintenance. My lunch break typically consists of grooming my horse, Callie, or just sitting down and chilling out!
After lunch, I’ll continue any jobs I started earlier before bringing in the daytime turnout horses, feeding everybody and turning out the overnight turnout horses. I then carry out last-minute checks to make sure everybody has hay and is happy.
What have you enjoyed most about your apprenticeship, and what has been your proudest achievement?
It’s difficult to pinpoint one thing that I enjoy the most, but I’ve definitely enjoyed hearing all the feedback from liveries about how happy and satisfied they are with how their horses are being cared for. It satisfies me to know that I’m doing a good job of taking care of their horses.
My proudest achievement is the growth in my confidence when taking charge of the yard. When I began, I had never been left in charge of a yard that I’d worked on before, but this apprenticeship has helped to improve and develop my self-confidence and ability to take charge of myself, other staff members and the horses.
Have you faced or overcome any challenges during your apprenticeship?
There have been plenty of challenges along the way. I have dealt with big losses, injuries, illnesses and high-tension, stressful situations. Like most yards, the biggest challenge to overcome is the wintertime. It’s a difficult time for both people and horses, but with a positive mindset, I persevere through it each year.
How has your experience been as an apprentice with Haddon Training?
My experience with Haddon Training has been very positive. I feel like I’ve had somebody to have my back and guide me through every part of my apprenticeship, thanks to my Trainer Coach, Laura.
What are your future aspirations?
My future aspirations are to own and run a successful livery yard business, alongside competing with my own horses and producing young horses.
Find out more about our equine apprenticeships here.
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