Staff Training: cost versus benefit

The Open College of Equine Studies looks at staff training: cost versus benefit. 

Slightly better news...
With the “powers that be” *permitting one-to-one training sessions and recognising the importance of continuing *formal education and training towards BHS Stages, BTEC courses and vocational qualifications under the criteria for lockdown #2, this hopefully brings slightly better news for some businesses. (*Correct as at 09.11.20)

Future proofing

However, the equestrian sector is fighting a daunting battle with increased winter costs looming and economic uncertainty from the recovery from the first lockdown; survival is the challenge right now. Business as usual is a distant memory and a speck on the horizon. We can do nothing about the past, but you can influence your business’s future.

Whether we want it or not, we all need to review and revise our business plans for the next months and year. Staff are a significant cost and, whilst their training may not be at the top of the list of priorities during a global pandemic, developing the team’s skillset is a sound investment which will also raise morale and motivation during worrying times.

Your staff are your business

Even the most experienced staff can learn something new to help to a business develop. Knowledgeable, well trained staff are your shop window - they contribute to your reputation and play a huge part in your success.

Many British Equestrian member bodies require CPD for their officials. CPD is well established across other business sectors and is gaining traction in the horse world, further raising the professional status of our industry.

65% of those surveyed recognised the importance of investing in staff to attract and retain the best for their businesses. Although there are associated costs, it is false economy to lose good staff and drop behind the knowledge curve. How many hours of staff training is right? As many as needed, but the survey showed the majority offer between 1 and 8 hours per month.

Emerging the other side

To assist with training costs, EEA members are eligible for a 10% discount on BHS Stages 1 to 4 Care online courses for their staff and clients through The Open College of Equine Studies (TOCES). This discount is also available to BHS Approved Centres and there is an income opportunity for BHS approved centres, through promotion of TOCES courses, which may be of assistance at this time.
TOCES is also offering a 10% discount on CPD courses to EEA members. You can find out how to get your discount code here.

The Pay As You Learn option spreads course costs into easily manageable instalments and the online courses are flexible and easy to access. TOCES provide industry qualified tutors, freeing you to focus on your business and teaching your paying clients.

If, despite the challenges and difficulties Covid-19 is wreaking on equestrian businesses, some staff training can carry on, businesses and their teams will be more likely to emerge prepared and ready for whatever 2021 has in store.