Totally agree, there needs to be stricter regulations (any regulations) on selling but that leads back to the need to license owners as well - in the same way as shotguns and 'dangerous' dogs. It will never happen as it would be too much work and who would have the responsibility??
I don't know about Hartpury but at Writtle it does not matter if you have your own horse or if you are hands on during your course. If you want to get involved yo can do work experience or volunteer on either yard (riding or stud), there is an equestrian club, a young breeders club, the riding...
You have probably found somewhere by now but look up Elm Farm in Roxwell on FB - Nat Hogger does full and part livery I think, only about 10/5 mins from the college.
I am another newbie to the forums I am afraid, I usually just read the discusssions but I do feel the need to comment on this one. I went to meadow stables looking for a horse to purchase (looking for cheap, safe cobby types). I am not a novice owner/rider and have been around horses all my...