Saddled up for stardom

Stardom beckons for Kingston Maurward College apprentice as a stunt extra in Stephen Spielberg’s new film 'War Horse.'

The 17-year-old is currently on location filming the eagerly anticipated movie, which stars the cream of young British talent including Sherlock actor, Benedict Cumberbatch, and Harry Potter star, Emma Watson.

Roberto Scalisi has just finished his horse care apprenticeship at the Dorchester campus and is putting his equine skills to use performing stunts on horseback as well as being a cavalry rider.

“It’s all very exciting and I’m having a lot of fun despite the long hours,” said Roberto, who also started eventing this year.

“I’ve met Benedict Cumberbatch who is very cool and down-to-earth and everyone is really nice.

“I’ve been rehearsing for my stunts which include jumping from one horse to another and vaulting over another.

“I’m also a rider in the cavalry charge and will be on foot on the front line.”

Roberto is signed up to do four months of filming until November.

His break into movies came about after his mum saw an advertisement looking for a boy with riding skills.

Zarra Lea, his work-based learning co-ordinator at Kingston Maurward, said: “He was a perfect student, always doing his work on time and doing extra as well. In fact, Roberto finished his apprenticeship in only six months!

“He’s a lovely boy and deserves this amazing opportunity.”

Roberto also hopes it will lead to more film work.

“It would be great if this opened doors,” he added.

Spielberg’s version of War Horse is an adaptation of the 1982 children’s book by author Michael Morpurgo, which was also adapted into a stage play.

It traces the friendship between Joey, a farm horse sold into the British army and sent to serve on French battlefields during World War 1.