Sue Martin began by helping at the centre as a child. She began teaching at just 13, in the days when that was possible! She embarked on a career with horses, and managed the centre, then owned by Keith Beaven, for several years. She also show jumped, for many years, with success, under the guidance of International rider, Mannie Beaven. She purchased the centre in 1995, and along with her family, has run it ever since. Under Sue Martin’s lead, Trent Park Equestrian Centre is a British Horse Society Equestrian Centre of Excellence. It has grown into one of the largest and most successful Riding Schools in the country as well as a Training and Examination Centre for students. In addition to her work at the Centre Sue has led and chaired the Equestrian Trailblazer Steering Group for the government’s initiative to reform apprenticeships. She is passionate about teaching people to ride, and is actively involved in the training of the centre’s career students, and can often be seen around the yard at weekends assisting the staff with the organisation of the centre’s busiest times.
Centre Manager, Maria Johnson, started her career with horses as a teenage helper at the centre. On leaving school, Maria went away to college to study horses and equine business management. Over the years, she trained for and attained her BHS qualifications. Maria worked for several years at Bishop Burton College in Yorkshire, before returning to TPEC as centre manager in 1996. After returning to the centre, Maria achieved her BHS Stable Manager’s qualification. Along with owner, Sue Martin, Maria has been responsible for the expansion of the centre into one of the most successful BHS Training and Exam Centres in the country.
Doriel joined the team in 2007 having attained her BHS Stage 4 and PTT while working as the yard manager at another local equestrian centre. Doriel also has a National Diploma in Equine Management and an NVQ Level 3 in Horse Management. Since joining the team Doriel has completed her BHSII and became Assistant Yard Manager in 2011. Doriel regularly competes in all disciplines and this competitive experience is invaluable for students and customers training for competition and exams.
