Sophia’s saddlery journey
Sophia, a second-year student at Capel Manor College, is working towards completing the prestigious Worshipful Company of Cordwainers’ Diploma in Saddle, Harness and Bridle Making. Her passion for horses and creativity has guided her toward a unique career path.
“I’ve wanted to become a saddler and saddle fitter for a long time,” Sophia explains. “Horses have always been a passion of mine. I begged every Christmas for a horse until I was 14, and that’s when I got Digger. He’s been a challenge to fit with saddles—he’s ‘brick-shaped,’ as I like to say—and in New Zealand, there just aren’t enough saddlers or saddle fitters to help. It got to a point where I thought it would be easier to learn how to do it myself!”
Sophia’s explains her unexpected relocation to the UK to join Capel Manor College. “Ordinarily I wouldn’t have been able to attend, being that I live in New Zealand, but I feel really lucky I have an English grandmother, which made me eligible to enrol.”
Once she arrived at Capel Manor College, Sophia knew she’d found the right place to turn her passion into a career. “I take the train each morning to college and the journey is well worth it. Walking through the College’s beautiful gardens to the workshop is the perfect start to my day. I usually stop by the café for a free breakfast, then head to the workshop, where most of our time is spent crafting and stitching.”
The practical nature of the course is what Sophia enjoys most. “I can’t choose just one part of it—I love making things all day and having the opportunity to be creative, but it’s also the people that make the experience so special. The saddlery department is full of amazing individuals, and it’s always a good time.”
Sophia’s second year has been particularly exciting, as she prepares her entry for the National Saddlery Competition. “Each year is divided into units like bridle, harness and saddle making, with additional topics like lorinery and business management. This year, we’re also learning box-making, which has been a lot of fun.”
Looking ahead, Sophia has ambitious plans. “After I complete the course, I’ll take my Level 3 City & Guilds skills tests, as well as my saddle and bridle fitting qualifications. My dream is to return to New Zealand and start my own business. I want to be the go-to place for all tack needs, offering repairs, adjustments, bespoke items, saddle fitting and bridle fitting. It’s an ambitious vision, but I’m so excited about it!”
Reflecting on her time at Capel Manor College, Sophia is full of gratitude. “This course is the perfect blend of hands-on learning and creativity, set in such a beautiful environment. I couldn’t have asked for a better place to kickstart my career in saddlery.”
Capel Manor College, London’s leading environmental college, continues to nurture talent and support students like Sophia as they pursue their passions and turn them into thriving careers. For more information about our saddlery and shoemaking courses, visit capel.ac.uk/courses/subject/saddlery-and-shoemaking/
