Jennifer Lavelle, a former East Durham College Equine student, is now an assistant manager at one of Britain’s leading racehorse trainers, Johnston Racing in Middleham, North Yorkshire.
Jennifer, 21, is originally from Hartlepool and attended the High Tunstall College of Science before enrolling at Houghall on a Level 2 Equine Care Diploma in 2016.
Jennifer recalls what made her pick East Durham College. She says:
"I chose to study at Houghall due to its outstanding equine facilities, the positive lecturer reputation and good transport links that made for an easy commute. I also attended an open evening and got to see the brand new classrooms and indoor horse arena, and that's what sold me on the college."
After successfully completing her course, she secured an Advanced Apprenticeship with Elwick Stud Hartlepool and gained a Level 3 Diploma in Horse Care & Management with Houghall.
Following this, Jennifer got a job at Jedd O'Keeffe racing, stating:
"I gained most of my racing knowledge and experience here. Working at Jedd O'Keeffe racing taught me a lot and helped me progress in my career. But after working at the yard for two years, I decided it was time for a change - I wanted to see how over companies were doing it. So I contacted Johnston Racing and submitted my CV. I was thrilled when I heard I was hired!"
Jennifer now works at Johnston Racing as an assistant manager. In 2018, Mark Johnston became the winning-most trainer in British racing history when he saddled his 4,194th winner and now has over 300 horses at his state-of-the-art yard.
"I am responsible for riding, feeding, grooming and informing managers of any medical issues the horse have. We are really lucky here, we get supplied with breakfast and lunch every day. The yard is fitted with the most impressive modern equipment, and we get to go to racing days to turn out the horses. I never stop learning, it's a great job to have."
When asked what next is on the horizon, Jennifer says:
"At Johnston Racing there are many opportunities to progress in your career. You can advance into full management roles in various departments. My goal is to continue developing and hopefully become a manager one day."
Asking Jennifer if she would recommend East Durham College, she said:
"Definitely go for it! East Durham College gives you the excellent starting knowledge and skills you need to get into the industry today."
Jennifer is well on her way to achieving her ambition to become a manager. We can't wait to see where she goes next and have no doubt she'll keep achieving her dreams in the equine industry.
