Between study periods and stable chores, Year 11 student Jazmine juggles school, caring for eleven horses at home, and a demanding schedule in the equestrian competition world.
Her love for horses began early. “My mum had horses growing up… she gave us her ribbons,” Jazmine recalls. “I started riding when I could walk. Just pony rides at first, and then formal lessons as I got older.” After a break due to injuries, she returned to riding and bought her first horse. “From then on, I just haven’t stopped.”
Today, Jazmine’s mornings start long before the school bell rings. “I wake up, feed my horses, ride, then rush to school. It’s stressful, but somehow I get it done.” She laughs, “I’m always late to school, but by then I’ve already accomplished a lot.”
Her horses are more than animals; they’re family. “Daisy is my big chestnut mare. Very spicy, very moody, but sweet too. Bow Bow is my favourite. He's a little Welshy. We actually saved him from being put down. I did all the work, and now he’s amazing.”
Alongside her practical experience, Jazmine is completing a Certificate III in Equine Studies. “It’s been amazing. I’ve learnt so much about horses’ anatomy, muscles and bones. Now when I’m training with my horse, I know what muscles to build.”
The course is hands-on. “We spend mornings in the classroom doing quizzes, then the rest of the day with horses – catching them, grooming, plaiting. I’d highly recommend it to anyone who loves horses.” Plaiting is one skill that stands out for Jazmine. “I had no idea how to do it before. It’s helped me so much in competitions.”
Competitions are a big part of Jazmine’s life. “I enter a lot – too many!” she laughs. “To qualify for big shows like Melbourne Royal, you need wins at smaller shows. This year, my proudest moment was winning the Novice Hunter Pony class at Melbourne with Bow Bow, my heart horse. To win on a horse I’ve trained myself… that’s my biggest achievement.” Jazmine was also touched to have her teacher, Mr Abrahams, come and support her when she competed and won with Bow Bow.
Jazmine is quick to acknowledge the support she’s received from Heathdale. "Mr Abrahams has been amazing," she says. "He helped me organise everything so I could compete against schools and represent Heathdale, and even came to watch me at Melbourne Royal when Bow Bow won. Having him there meant so much." This encouragement, along with the school’s flexibility and resources, has allowed Jazmine to pursue her passion while staying on top of her studies.
Balancing school and horses isn’t easy. “It’s really hard,” Jazmine admits. “School feels like my second option – horses are my life. So, I’m thankful for study periods and support from teachers like Mr Abrahams. And my mum. Without her, none of this would happen.”
Looking ahead, Jazmine’s goals are clear. “Next year, I want to qualify for Grand Nationals, the biggest competition. And after school, I want to be a mounted police officer. Combining horses and policing is the dream.”
We wish Jazmine every success as she tackles her final year of school and pursues her equestrian dreams in 2026!