Hartpury has announced a new partnership with three organisations – the Society of Master Saddlers, the Worshipful Company of Loriners and the Worshipful Company of Saddlers – to carry out industry-driven research and promote equine education.
With horse welfare at the heart of all the organisations’ equestrian activities, the partnership will drive forward training, education and research in relation to horse-human interaction and partnership.
They will also work together to champion and support a successful and modern saddlery industry, providing British equestrians with the very latest equipment and access to registered, qualified saddlery fitters.
The research will be enhanced by a range of world-class facilities at Hartpury – the world’s largest equine educational establishment – including the Equine Therapy Centre and the Margaret Giffen Centre for Rider Performance.
Rosie Scott-Ward, Pro Vice-Chancellor at Hartpury University, said: “We’re absolutely passionate about ensuring the highest standard of horse welfare across our various activities at Hartpury.
“Our new partnership with the Society of Master Saddlers, the Worshipful Company of Loriners, and the Worshipful Company of Saddlers will help to advance training, education and research into horse-human interaction.
“The partnership will also provide our students with access to experienced industry professionals and help them to stay informed about the latest developments ahead of a possible career within the industry.”
Hazel Morley, Chief Executive of the Society of Master Saddlers, said: “We are delighted to announce our partnership with Hartpury University and Hartpury College.
“This year marks the 25th anniversary of SMS Saddle Fitting training and so it is especially apt that we also embark on a close relationship with Hartpury.
“We look forward to developing industry-led research projects with Hartpury staff and students, supported by our members, which will have application and relevance to all equine professionals.
“We are also delighted to be able to offer Hartpury students the very best in saddle and bridle fitting awareness training, and we hope, for some of them, an exciting career path in the saddlery industry.
“Our members too will benefit from the excellent training available from Hartpury, ensuring that SMS qualified saddle and bridle fitters remain the best in the world.”
Sue Douthwaite, Master of the Worshipful Company of Loriners, said: “We’re committed to promoting a high standard of continuing professional development within the industry at all times.
“We’re proud to be part of this exciting new partnership to support ground-breaking research for the benefit of the saddlery and lorinery industry and the wider equestrian sector.”
Philip Napier, the Clerk of The Worshipful Company of Saddlers, said: “We are delighted to support this new partnership and hope that it goes from strength to strength.”
