Today, we explore the remarkable journey of Ryann McPhillips, currently pursuing her BSc (Hons) Equine Management at the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) in Enniskillen. Hailing from Omagh, Ryann’s passion for horses ignited at a young age, despite not coming from an agricultural background. She began riding at the tender age of five at Clanabogan Stables and later joined the showjumping team at Drumragh College. After completing her A-levels, it was a no-brainer for her to choose CAFRE, where hands-on experience and strong industry connections take center stage.
Ryann’s journey took an exciting turn when she secured an internship in the USA with renowned international show jumper Conor Swail, whose stables, Swail Equestrian, are located in Wellington, Florida. Known for its professionalism and high-performance standards, this opportunity was a significant stepping stone for her career.
An Internship Like No Other
During her internship, Ryann was immersed in the daily operations of a busy equestrian facility. Her responsibilities included everything from mucking out stables and feeding to grooming and saddling horses. She prepared horses for travel and competitions, assisted at shows, and kept a close eye on the health of the horses, reporting any concerns. This practical training at CAFRE laid a solid foundation for her, enabling her to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
One of the highlights of her internship was the chance to participate in major competitions while supporting a talented team and observing world-class riders. This experience not only deepened her understanding of the professional show jumping industry but also boosted her confidence and expanded her professional network. Ryann encourages fellow students in the BSc (Hons) Equine Management program at CAFRE to consider such internships, as they are invaluable to personal and professional growth.
Discovering CAFRE and Its Opportunities
For those interested in following Ryann’s path, the Enniskillen Campus of CAFRE offers a variety of courses in Equine Management, including Honours and Foundation degrees validated by the Ulster University. Nestled just two miles outside of Enniskillen in Fermanagh, Northern Ireland, the campus boasts approximately 70 horses, providing students with the chance to work in areas like breeding, riding, and racing. Students also participate in events such as Point-to-Point races and prepare young horses for international competitions at esteemed venues like Goffs and Tattersalls Ireland.
Students enjoy a supportive living environment, with accommodations available for under-18s and first-year students at an affordable rate of around £60 per week. Moreover, livery costs range from £40 to £45 per week per horse, which includes bedding and feed. It’s worth noting that students from the Republic of Ireland enjoy the same rights as their Northern Irish counterparts, making CAFRE an attractive option for many.
CAFRE encourages students to seek opportunities beyond Ireland, with partnerships that include internships in Ireland and Australia. Interested individuals can apply for Honours and Foundation degree programs through UCAS, with fees set at £4,630 and £2,550 respectively. For those seeking additional qualifications, CAFRE offers certificate and diploma programs, as well as an exciting Farrier Upskilling program starting in Spring 2023.
Join the Equestrian Adventure
If you’re looking to combine your love for horses with travel and cultural experiences, an internship abroad could be the perfect fit. Such programs often require prior experience with horses, physical resilience, and a minimum age of 15. Opportunities abound in countries like Greece, Denmark, and Spain, with various types of equine facilities available for internships, including riding schools, competition yards, and therapeutic riding centers.
These internships provide a unique chance to engage in horse care and training, while also being part of an international team. Whether you’re mucking out stalls or assisting riders and veterinarians, the experience is sure to be enriching and rewarding. For more information about internships and equine programs, check out resources like Vividus International.
Don’t miss the upcoming Equine Open Day on March 7th at the Enniskillen Campus, a wonderful opportunity to learn more about CAFRE and its offerings. For further details, visit their website at CAFRE News.