The Pony Club partners with the UK’s fastest-growing online school

The Pony Club is thrilled to announce a new sponsorship agreement with Minerva’s Virtual Academy (MVA), an innovative online independent school for 11-18-year-olds. 

As part of this exciting partnership, MVA will be prominently represented at The JCB Pony Club Championships, with branding featured on the main screen in the JCB Arena.

MVA, which has a 1,000-strong student body across more than 50 countries, is committed to providing an accessible and affordable alternative to traditional schooling, delivering world-class education while fostering a strong sense of community. 

With an Ofsted-praised approach to education, small class sizes, and dedicated one-to-one mentoring, MVA is designed to support students in balancing their studies with their sporting commitments.

This sponsorship aligns with The Pony Club’s mission to support young equestrians both in and out of the saddle, ensuring they have the best opportunities for their future.

Attendees at the Championships will have the chance to connect with MVA in the Fan Zone, where the team will be available to discuss how they can support students’ education alongside their equestrian commitments. 

Additionally, MVA will be supporting the Hydration Station alongside the Half Halt area, ensuring competitors and visitors stay refreshed throughout the event and have a place to reflect and prepare for competition.

As an added benefit, members of both The Pony Club and MVA will receive paid access to the National Schools Equestrian Association (NSEA) and a special welcome goodie bag if they wish to compete in the school team.

Jo Harrow, Head of Marketing and Commercial at The Pony Club, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership: “We are excited to welcome Minerva on board and develop our relationship for the future. 

“Their commitment to providing flexible, high-quality education aligns perfectly with the values of The Pony Club, and we look forward to seeing the impact of this collaboration at our Championships and beyond.”

Clare Sender, Head of Equestrian at MVA, said: “We are delighted to be working with The Pony Club. 

“As a keen Pony Club member many years ago, I recognise that The Pony Club values of Togetherness, Empathy, Respect and Learning are very closely aligned with the MVA ‘Ways of Being’ – Kind, Aware, Ambitious and Considerate. 

“We are looking forward to helping more families balance their education with their equestrian passion, ensuring young riders can thrive both in the classroom and in the saddle.”

This partnership marks an important step in supporting young riders with both their sporting and academic aspirations. Be sure to visit MVA in the Fan Zone at The JCB Pony Club Championships to learn more!