John Joe Gallagher, First Diploma in Equine Studies, Enniskillen Campus

“It’s hard to believe that I have almost completed my First Diploma in Equine Studies at Enniskillen Campus. Ever since enrolling at the Campus last September, it has been an excellent learning curve.  We had a great mixture of theory and practical classes, which have expanded my knowledge of horses and the care of them.  I really enjoyed getting the opportunity to ride out the race horses in the morning; a few laps on the training gallop gives you a great start to the day!

The First Diploma course has meant that I have a better knowledge of the care of horses including feeding them and recognising if they are not well. The riding lessons included in the programme have improved my knowledge of how to “school” a horse and also have given me more confidence in my ability to do so.

Recently I was lucky enough to be selected to compete for the College at the Irish Intervarsities Competition, held in Broadmeadows Equestrian Centre; it was a great opportunity and I gained more experience competing.

I regularly compete on my own horse and it was a great benefit to be able to keep the horse on the student livery yard so I could keep him fit for competition.  

The course also offers the opportunity for me to experience working in the equine industry, by having to complete five weeks work placement.  I am looking forward to going to a top showjumping yard to help me expand upon what I have learnt at the College.  

As for the social life at the College, there is always something to entertain us. From Wednesday nights out to Halloween Parties and Christmas Formals it allowed me to meet lots of new people.

After completing my First Diploma, I would like to progress on to the National Diploma in Horse Management at Enniskillen Campus.  In the future I would like to be able to sit my British Horse Society exams and gain my teaching qualification.  I would also like to be able to run a competition yard where I will turn horses out to a high standard, and have them riding and jumping successfully.”  

John Joe Gallagher with his horse 'Next Level'