Apprentice becomes a manager

A horse lover who found herself a job as an apprentice at riding stables after dropping out of college has been appointed its yard manager.

Danielle Loseby, 19, of Fernwood, was promoted at Newark Equestrian centre, Coddington, after finishing her 2½-year apprenticeship in horse care and management.

Danielle said she had always wanted to work with animals and had a particular passion for horses.

She said her parents were very supportive of her decision to do an apprenticeship and proud when she told them about her promotion.

“None of my family has any history with horses,” she said.

“I just really liked horses, and I started to have riding lessons when I was seven.”

The centre’s owner, Christine Carlile, said the apprenticeship scheme was an excellent way of learning horse care and management.

“It’s a very hands-on job. Students would not get so much experience at university,” she said.

The course gave Danielle the chance to gain qualifications in first aid, child protection and health and safety.

Three other girls are now doing apprenticeships at the centre.

Danielle recommended the apprenticeship scheme and said it was a good way of learning the trade without building up a lot of debt.

Her new role means she will be taking bookings, teaching, and managing staff.

Christine said of Danielle: “She was very quiet and shy at first but now she’s blossomed.”