Posted: 13th January 2026 | Back to news feed
Brooksby College Equine Lecturer and Alumna, Olivia Swinbourne, recently secured the BHS Young Volunteer of the Year title at an awards ceremony at Newbury Racecourse.
Presented by actor Martin Clunes, the award recognised Olivia’s work as a volunteer Horse Care and Welfare Advisor for the British Horse Society, through which she assists with horse welfare cases.
The award also recognises Olivia’s additional work supporting at BHS events and clinics, and her role as a mentor for other advisors.
When talking about the award, Olivia said ‘I am absolutely amazed and so proud to have received this award, I never came into the role expecting anything in that aspect, but to be awarded this is amazing.
“I started volunteering to be able to support horses and their owners alike, being there to advise them and ensure the best standards of welfare for the horses. It is very important for me to utilise my previous working and educational experience in this role in the best way that I can to support equestrians and their horses. This volunteering role allows me to see the industry first-hand and expand my understanding of how we can best support welfare efforts.’
Olivia studied both her Level 3 Extended Diploma in Equine Management and BSc (Hons) at BSc (Hons) in Equine Performance with Business qualifications at Brooksby College, progressing to study a Masters of Research (MRes) in Equine Health and Welfare at Nottingham Trent University. She now lectures full-time at Brooksby College alongside her extensive volunteer work for the British Horse Society, inspiring and guiding the next generation of Equine professionals.
Applications are now open to study at Brooksby College starting in September 2026. Visit www.loucoll.ac.uk to book on to an Open Day or to apply.
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