Work experience

At Plettenberg Equestrian Academy, we feel that it is imperative for students to get a good idea of the different aspects of the horse industry so that they can get a better understanding of where they would like to take their equestrian career.

During their ten months, students will spend a week doing work experience where they will get the chance to work in different types of yards (polo, racing, riding school, competition, stud etc.)

We are also affiliated with Plettenberg Park, a 5 star luxury boutique hotel which is managed by the Three Cities Group. We are responsible for taking Plettenberg Park hotel guests out for rides into the Harkerville forest. Students will therefore become involved in dealing with the public one on one, acquiring communication skills very necessary for the equine industry.

Career Opportunities

The Plettenberg Equestrian Academy is well connected within the horse industry in South Africa, allowing students a wealth of career advice once they have graduated. We are now part of Equine Services Consultants, who specialize in industry placements and the students can register with them for equine placements.

The mainstream career paths within the horse industry are outlined as follows:

Equine Stud Management – with career opportunities being stud groom, assistant stud manager and stud manager.

Stable Yard Management – with career opportunities being stable yard groom, stable yard supervisor and stable yard manager.

Equine Riding Instructor – with career opportunities being freelance instructor, riding school owner or being fully employed at a riding yard establishment.

If students wish to further their SANEF qualifications, the Academy now offers advanced SANEF Modules 5 and 6 preparation courses, and students can then continue with their studies go on to gain their SANEF level one instructors certificate.

The Academy also has links overseas for graduating students who wish to travel the world whilst gaining some international horse experience. The Plettenberg Equestrian Academy being part of The International Hotel School is also linked to the Three Cities Group of hotels and resorts. There is therefore scope for graduating students who wish to work with horses within the tourism industry.

Read about what some of our graduates have been doing on our News page