What the WUC Equine Academy will provide for the rider:

• Group and individual ridden training sessions with resident coaches, including periodic re-assessment
• Group training sessions with professional external trainers
• Fitness training including; sport psychology sessions, Pilates classes, cardiovascular training, coaching sessions, gym strengthening sessions and nutrition advice
• Individualised yearly planner for competitive progress and goal setting, with some classroom based theory learning
• High-intensity technical and tactical planning sessions

What the WUC Equine Academy will provide for the horse:

• A dedicated space in the Academy Block of DIY stables with an associated “ensuite” sand-pen
• Therapeutic assessment by qualified veterinary physiotherapists or chiropractic staff, including regular massages by supervised veterinary physiotherapy or sports therapy WUC students
• Biomechanical gait assessment to include the use of pressure-monitoring systems for saddle/rider asymmetry and rein balance
• Nutrition advice from qualified nutritionists

Acceptance into the Equine Academy will be competitive. Retention of your Academy place will require the successful applicant to pass and excel at their academic assessments throughout the year, alongside their riding commitments. Candidates will have an exemplary attendance record and convey a commitment to the provided academic sessions. In return, members will have access to our equine facilities and our experienced support staff.

It is expected that Equine Academy members will become ambassadors for the Academy and maintain high standards throughout their time as a member, by helping with demonstrations at University Open Days, becoming involved in marketing initiatives and for taught sessions.

Members must support fellow students on the yard, offering to become mentors to encourage and develop other students. Members must be able to work as part of a team to maintain professional standards at all times, whether in the stable barn or as a rider representing WUC while competing at events.

Members will be required to chart their development and success via Social Media channels, such as Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, and there will be an expectation to showcase the progress of the Academy horses and riders through writing a blog.

The application process:

• Now accepting applications for 2023 entry
• Applicants must submit a 1,500 word written application justification, accompanied by a 10 to 15 minute video evidencing the rider and horse combination’s flat work and some jumping, if applicable, to support the written application
• Applicants must provide a reference from a qualified instructor, riding club committee member, Pony Club District Commissioner or professional rider within the intended discipline. If utilising a professional rider as a reference, the applicant must have spent time training or employed as a member of the rider’s yard team
• Shortlisted applicants could potentially be invited to a viewing day for initial assessment in August
• Unsuccessful applicants will be ranked and placed on a waiting list and offered places as appropriate if or when spaces become available
• Successful applicants will be informed by e-mail as to when they can bring their horses on site, this is usually over the weekend prior to Induction
• Students are able to apply for Academy membership prior to each academic year

Applications must be received by end of July 2023