BHS is on the lookout for talented young riding instructors

The British Horse Society is inviting applicants to come forward for the Young Instructor of the Year 2008

Are you an ambitious young riding instructor looking to increase your skills?

The British Horse Society has this week launched its search to find the Young Instructor of the Year 2008. This competition, now in its third year, has been developed to offer aspiring young coaches an opportunity to display and develop their skills.

The Young Instructor of the Year competition is open to anyone who is 30 years of age or under on 1 January 2008, who holds a minimum of the BHS preliminary teaching test and is actively involved in the equine industry.

BHS director of standards Margaret Linington-Payne said: “This competition is ideal for young coaches and instructors who wish to highlight and improve their existing coaching work within the equine industry.”

Tom Searle BHSII from Gloucestershire won last year’s title aged just 24. Tom, who runs a small private yard and is a freelance instructor and eventer, said he found the competition very worthwhile.

“I think the competition gives much needed direction to people like myself,” he said, adding: “I am delighted to have won it.”

The competition is split into ten regional qualifiers across the country. Each qualifier is used as a training day for selected applicants and allows them the opportunity to question, discuss and debate coaching and teaching skills with a Fellow of the BHS.

All qualifiers still have limited places available. If you are interested in applying, contact the BHS training department for further details and an application pack on 01926 707820.

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