40 years of equine

As the first equine college in the country, Moreton Morrell began its programme of equine education in 1971. A number of activities are taking place throughout the year to celebrate this milestone, starting with the Ruby Celebration evening.

The evening saw over 300 former and current students and staff, governors of the college, well known faces in the equine world and local dignitiries come to Moreton Morrell for the celebration.

Equine staff with student Jess Odam and horses King and Penfold

The evening featured four presentations from former students who are now working in the equine industry. Georgina Crossman, who now works for the British Equestrian Federation, reminissed with the audience about her time at Moreton Morrell.

She said: “For the friends I made – students and staff – and the experiences I had, I am truly grateful.  Thank you Moreton Morrell: without you I wouldn’t be where I am today!”

Lee Moulson, who now works for Warwick Racecourse and Russell Guire, founder and director of Centaur Biomechanics, also gave engaging presentations on how the college has helped them to get where they are today. The final presentation was delivered by well known Jo White, who is the Director of Campaigns for the World Horse Welfare Trust.

The college were also thrilled to welcome back former principal, George Jackson, who was the principal in charge of the college when the first equine courses were founded. George delivered a potted history of the college, along with current the current Senior Curriculum Leader for Equine, Clifford Mitchell, who has been a member of staff since 1971.

The 300 attendees then enjoyed a guided tour of the equine unit, where many commented on the changes that had been made since 1971. The original five horse stalls have now been transformed into over 100 stables, and the former polo arena is now a library.

The attendees then watched a fantastic quadrille from the college’s very talented Moreton Morrell Riding Academy, before returning for a cheese and wine supper and the chance to network and socialise.

Technical Academy Leader for Equine; Dr Diane Whitehouse commented: “The evening has been a huge success, it is so nice to see faces from the past, who are now very much faces of the future in the equine world. We are very proud of our rich history, and it is important for people to know just how far our students have gone.”

The event culminated with a raffle, where a total of £265 was raised for Jo White’s charity, World Horse Welfare Trust.

As the home of equine studies, Warwickshire College is now offering courses at Pershore in Worcester, as well as Moreton Morrell in Warwickshire. Courses range from distance learning leisure courses, to full honours degrees and BHS Certificates. The college is taking applications for courses starting in September 2012 and offers a number of taster and open events throughout the year.

See more pictures from the event.