Practical opportunities for Degree students at Enniskillen Campus

My name is Emma English and I’m in second year on the Honour’s Degree course at the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE), Enniskillen Campus.

Emma English riding CAFRE Diablo with Equine Instructor Chris Bogues.

I’m from Knocklong in Co. Limerick and I chose to study at CAFRE because of the range of equine facilities available and the opportunity to get an equine degree whilst developing practical skills. We get the chance to ride racehorses as part of the racing club, and equitation horses as part of the riding club.  

I come from a racing background and have grown up around racehorses. I’ve enjoyed being part of the racing club in the college. We get the opportunity to ride out every morning as well as learning how to school the horses and take them point to pointing at the weekends.

I joined the riding club in college, where we can ride the equitation horses. I have a lesson every Tuesday, with Chris Bogues, where we do an hour of showjumping or flat work. This is extremely beneficial to our riding skills, as well as being fun. Over the last few weeks, we have been preparing for the Castle Irvine and Enniskillen Horse Show Winter League. 

On Saturday 26th of November, I took part in my first ever show at the Castle Irvine and Enniskillen Horse Show Winter Showjumping League. This was a whole new experience for me. I rode CAFRE’s Diablo in the 70cm class, and I jumped a double clear. I was nervous before I went into the ring but, once I started, I really enjoyed myself. It felt strange to be in a showjumping arena as opposed to on the gallops on a racehorse, but I was well prepared from the riding club lessons, and I felt quite confident. 

I've loved having the opportunity to gain experience in show jumping alongside racing at CAFRE, outside of our core classes. It’s a great opportunity to meet new people and make friends and new contacts. I’m really looking forward to taking part in my next show. 

If you are interested in studying for a Degree qualification and are leaving school this summer, apply now through UCAS. If you are in Year 12 you can apply to CAFRE to study for a Level 2 or Level 3 qualification. For information on courses, visit the CAFRE website.

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