Equine students gain international industry insights in Sweden
Students and apprentices following equine training programmes at Coleg Sir Gâr have recently returned from a visit to Sweden.
The group was hosted by Flyinge Kungsgård, an equestrian centre which is a renowned, historic training venue where they train unbroken horses to grand Prix level in show jumping, dressage and eventing. They also train professional riders, farriers, drivers and college students.
Six students from Carmarthenshire took advantage of this educational and cultural experience which was fully funded by Taith, Wales’ international learning exchange programme.
Lucy Cleaver, Coleg Sir Gâr equine lecturer said: “We were privileged enough to partake in some activities whilst at the centre, such as farriery, driving, breaking and schooling young horses and riding their beautiful Swedish Warmblood horses.”
“It wasn’t just about horses, it’s important that students learn about culture and international communication so we visited Bollerup with a tour and history of the local area and the buildings.
“We also visited Denmark, Copenhagen and went to Tivoli gardens, enjoyed a theme park and then some local shopping.”
Students were also able to experience specific industry practices with Lövsta Stuteri & Seminstation where they saw mares being scanned, flushed and inseminated as well as seeing a world champion with a four-time gold medallist, exercising around obstacles.
Catherine Nicholls, a Coleg Sir Gâr equine apprentice who was part of the visit said: “I just want to say a massive thank you to the college’s equine team for this amazing opportunity.
“I am incredibly grateful to be chosen to go as visiting Flyinge was a truly once in a lifetime experience, seeing the next generation of top competitive riders and their horses training together was inspiring.”
Lucy Cleaver, Coleg Sir Gâr lecturer added: “All the students and staff thoroughly enjoyed the trip, they learnt a lot about the equine industry and the history and culture of Sweden, as well as team building and generally widening their horizons and experiences.”
