Equine staff and students pull together to raise money for local charity

Ten equine degree students at UHI North Highland organised and hosted an instruction clinic to raise money for the Caithness Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA).

The year two students on the BA (Hons) Equine Business Management course planned, organised and promoted the weekend event as part of their Event Planning and Organisation module.

Held at the Rural Studies Centre near Halkirk, the event was heavily supported by lecturer James Munro, along with yard manager and groom Russell Skelton, who provided lessons in show jumping and flatwork for around 30 horse owners.

The lessons incorporated the Showing Register (TSR) showing clinic and attracted riders from Caithness and Orkney. James and Russell gave up their time free of charge so the students could raise money for their chosen charity.

Receiving the RDA donation, Elizabeth Hewitson said: "On behalf of Caithness RDA I would like to thank the second year equine students for the very generous donation of £700 they handed over following their successful event. This money will be used for the children who attend RDA where they gain fun, therapy and enjoyment."

Commenting on their experience, the students said: "We really enjoyed running this event, it was a great opportunity to get to know new people and fundraise for a worthy cause."

Event organising and running was a team effort by both the practical learning and online learning students with the online degree students assisting with resources and helping with virtual organisation.

The students who ran the event at the Rural Studies centre have recently carried out a block of practical learning and have since returned to their homes to continue the course through the UHI virtual learning environment.

Places are available on the equine courses for this September with flexible study options. For more information about the courses, visit www.northhighland.uhi.ac.uk

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