NAGS Club bulletin: 17 April

Study from home

If you an interested in studying an equine science degree but have commitments that prevent you from going to university, there’s now a solution. The Open College of Equine Studies, based in Suffolk, is launching the world’s first distance learning MSc in equine science.

The course, which is available on a flexible basis to benefit students with full-time jobs or other commitments, is divided into two parts. Completion of the first part – via a series of detailed study packs – will earn you a postgraduate diploma. To attain the full Master of Science degree a research dissertation is also required.

The course will be run by the college’s new head of Equine Higher Education Dr Amanda Badnell-Waters, who is a respected academic in the field of equine clinical behaviour.

Enrolments for the course are being taken in July and the programme begins in October. For further information (tel: 01284 700703)

Students represent Britain

Hartpury College students Laura Durkan and Anna Billard are set to represent Britain at next month’s international three-day event at Compiegne, France.

Laura, on Canny Lass, and Anna, on Copper Friday, will be part of a 24-strong British squad competing between 15-18 May.

Anna, a first year student studying sports conditioning and coaching, described her selection as a “great thrill”.

“I am going to make sure that I make the most of the opportunity,” she says. “The fact that both horses are stabled here at the college and will be travelling out together will make it easier.”

Laura says that she wouldn’t be able to compete without the support of her parents, who are travelling with her.

“It’s a real team effort. Both Mum and Dad are very involved, whether it’s driving the lorry, mucking out or putting in the studs.”

Become a member

Membership of NAGS is free to all bona fide grooms and students. Benefits include: Horse & Hound subscription at £1 per copy, £3 discount voucher on a sack of Blue Chip Dynamic, 10% discount on Splash Equestrian equipment and clothing, no P&P charges from Equestrian Vision mail order and eligibility for NAGS-only competitions and offers.

If you are interested in becoming a member write to: NAGS, Room 2018, Kings Reach Tower, Stamford Street, London SE1 9LS (tel: 020 7261 6993), or e-mail: nags@ipcmedia.com

And remember, the club is open to all students, not just those studying for an equine qualification.

If you have any news or information you think would make a story for the NAGS weekly bulletin, please e-mail details to: kerry_bowness@ipcmedia.com