British Equestrian has announced that it will accept a new round of applications for its popular coaching bursary scheme, following great success from previous cohorts. The initiative is designed to support those taking their first step in their coaching career or who want to develop their existing coaching skills, with the aim of enabling more participants to enjoy equestrian sport.
Who Can Apply for the British Equestrian Coaching Bursary?
The British Equestrian Coach Bursary Scheme is open to:
- Riding school staff and volunteers who want to get started with their coaching qualifications and grow the opportunities for people to enjoy riding
- Coaches from underrepresented populations or protected characteristics within the coaching workforce
- Coaches who work with participants from underrepresented populations or with protected characteristics within the current equestrian community
Funding Available Through the Coaching Bursary
Applicants can apply for up to fifty percent of the course and assessment costs for a number of different coaching qualifications offered by British Equestrian’s member bodies. These range from general riding qualifications through to ones tailored for specific Olympic and non-Olympic disciplines within the equestrian sporting sector.
Success Stories from Previous Bursary Recipients
Jasmine achieved her BHS Coaching4All qualification through the bursary in 2023, supporting her work in bringing equestrian opportunities to young people from underprivileged areas.
“Without funding from the bursary, I wouldn’t have been able to complete the inclusive coaching course,” she said. “It helped me become more open-minded, gain more skills and get a better understanding of how small adjustments in my coaching can make my sessions more inclusive.”
British Equestrian’s Commitment to Coaching Development
British Equestrian Relationships Officer David Padgen, who has worked on developing the coach bursary scheme since its inception, commented: “We are delighted to continue the bursary scheme offering for coaches, so we can help to support the development of this vital workforce across our industry. Through the previous three successful rounds of applications, it’s fantastic to see how well the scheme has aided coaches, centres and participants alike. We look forward to offering the bursary to another cohort of new and experienced coaches.”
How to Apply for the British Equestrian Coaching Bursary
The closing date for applications for this bursary is 11:59pm on Sunday 16 November 2025.
A guidance document with further information is available from British Equestrian. Prospective applicants are advised to check through the guidance carefully before applying.
Applications for the Coaching Bursary can be submitted through the British Equestrian website.
Why the Coaching Bursary Matters
The British Equestrian coaching bursary scheme represents a significant investment in the future of equestrian sport in the UK. By supporting new and developing coaches, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds or working with diverse participants, the scheme helps to make equestrian sport more accessible and inclusive for all.
With funding covering up to half of qualification costs, the bursary removes a significant financial barrier for those looking to begin or advance their coaching careers. This investment in coaching development ultimately benefits the entire equestrian community, creating more opportunities for people to enjoy riding and participate in equestrian sport.
