British Equestrian launches e-learning resource for future planning
British Equestrian is pleased to announce the launch of its first e-learning resource. This initiative aims to provide a starting point for equestrian businesses to safeguard their future by becoming more robust and viable. Funded through Sport England’s Together Fund and in partnership with Sport Structures, the resource will evolve to advise on implementing procedures for unexpected circumstances and developing strategies for long-term sustainability. This will complement the existing informative training resources from member bodies.
Insights from British Equestrian’s Health of Riding Establishments research and individual consultations with centres have highlighted the vulnerability of equestrian establishments. A key area of vulnerability, contributing to the closure of centres, is succession planning. The first online training modules address this critical issue.
Succession planning is essential for any business, particularly during a time when many equestrian centres are operating at capacity with long waiting lists. Reduced access to centres would exacerbate this issue.
Working with Sport Structures and with input from several equestrian centres, British Equestrian has developed three free e-learning modules to support establishments with succession planning. These modules aim to provide clarity for everyone involved in the business about the future and to establish a clear plan.
The three modules, each lasting under 30 minutes, include:
– An introduction to succession planning: This module provides an overview of succession planning and discusses the importance of having a succession plan.
– Governance and legal structures: This module explores different governance and legal structures to consider when planning for the future of a riding establishment.
– People: This module highlights the importance of having the right people with the right skills to ensure the long-term operation of a riding establishment.
Jemima Morris, Together Fund Project Manager at British Equestrian, commented, “British Equestrian has consulted with many equestrian centres worried about the future of their businesses, whether due to rising costs, lack of workforce, or unforeseen circumstances. It’s exciting to provide support for all establishments to access, hopefully allowing them to plan for the future and keep our equestrian community thriving. Ultimately, we aim to safeguard equestrianism for more people to enjoy and participate in the future. We’re actively looking to develop further modules in key areas to bring online in the future.”
The training is available on British Equestrian’s website in the Workforce section. To access the modules, learners need to register for free on the Training Hub. Once logged in, the training will be visible.
British Equestrian extends their gratitude to Sport England for the funding and Sport Structures for their support in creating this resource.