General Information for BSET Academy

bset academy general info

Location: BSET Academy is situated in the picturesque KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. Nestled in the Karkloof valley, students enjoy breath-taking views from both the front porch and horse-back. Ideally situated in-between the heart of the breeding and horse racing industries, BSET Academy offers students a behind the scenes glimpse into the various equine disciplines. King Shaka International Airport is about a 2-hour (150km) drive whereas the Pietermaritzburg Airport is a quick 50min (50km) trip.

Climate: The summer months span through from September to April and are sub-tropical by nature. Winter runs from May to August and is characteristically dry and sunny with cold nights and frosty mornings. Due to the region's temperate climate, all equine activities are enjoyed throughout the year, with the exception of polo which is played through the winter season only.

Accommodation: BSET Academy students live on campus and share a well-appointed fully furnished house on the property, with each student having their own bedroom. Students have full access to a swimming pool on the property.

Meals: A cooked breakfast is provided on weekdays. However, the rest of the meals are self-catered for by the students.

Domestic:  Washing, laundry and daily cleaning functions are undertaken for the students BSET Academy domestic staff.

Clothing: Students are required to wear blue/black jeans or blue/black jodhpurs and leather jodhpur boots. Students will need to purchase their BSET Academy uniforms on enrolment, these entail shirts, fleeces, caps and jackets. BSET Academy uniform is worn daily.

Personal Protective Equipment: Students are required to provide their own approved safety riding helmet. It is compulsory for a helmet to be worn at all times when riding. The wearing of body protectors is encouraged.

Health care: South Africa has an excellent and advanced private health care system. BSET Academy is a 12-minute drive from the Lenmed Howick Private Hospital and 25-minutes from Life Hilton Private Hospital, which both have 24/7 Emergency rooms. Various other doctors and healthcare practitioners are found in Howick, Hilton and the nearby city of Pietermaritzburg.

Insurance: All students are required to have a comprehensive medical insurance. We advise international students to check with their travel agents regarding both medical and travel insurance.

Social activities: BSET Academy encourages students to experience and explore the region's attractions in their free time. On our doorstep is the Karkloof Country Club which offers students the opportunity to gain access to the vast surrounding forestry land on foot or bicycle. The Midlands Meander, which we are situated in, boasts a vast array of restaurants and curios to explore.

Both the Karkloof and Howick Falls are common tourist attractions and for the thrill seekers the Karkloof Canopy Tours are also just around the corner.

If students are looking for a weekend getaway, the Durban beach front is just over an hour and a half drive (120kms) or if the mountains are more appealing, Underberg is roughly a 2-hour drive (140kms) in the opposite direction.

For those wanting to continue competing in their chosen discipline there are various shows and tournaments within an 80km radius.

Communications: Signal can be a bit patchy up on the farm but both Vodacom and MTN cell service is available. Students are encouraged to bring their own USB modem or Wi-Fi dongle. Free Wi-Fi is however not provided.

Equine Studies • Equine Body Work • Equine Transeva Technique • Fascia Health • Magnetic Massage
PERFECTING THE EQUINE ATHLETE

27 (0)72 021 4835

PO Box 91, Howick, 3290