This is a practical programme with an emphasis on working with horses to allow you to gain the skills required to work in the equine industry. As part of the course, you will also develop your basic knowledge and understanding of horse care and what it entails. Please note, the units studied may vary depending on the options chosen. Riding and non-riding options are available.

Course Details

Maintaining health and safety in the workplace
Principles of maintaining good working relations with others
Principles of feeding and watering horses
How to groom and wash horses
Principles of and assisting with cleaning the stables and yard
Principles of and assisting with putting on and taking off tack and rugs
Principles of and assisting with cleaning tack and horse clothing
Principles of and assisting with leading and controlling a horse for inspection under direction
Principles of and assisting with catching and moving horses
Principles of and riding under supervision in enclosed spaces
English and Maths, as required

How will it be delivered and assessed?

Assessment includes a variety of techniques, including class tests, portfolio-based and practical assessments. GCSE/Functional Skills exams in English and/or Maths will be compulsory if you have not achieved these at grade 4 when you start the course.

Entry requirements

You will need a full Entry Level 3 qualification, or equivalent, as well as 3 GCSEs at grades 1-2, including Maths and English. A passion for the subject and one satisfactory reference are also required.

Regular practical equine experience is essential. For the riding option, you must also demonstrate a suitable level of riding. We also have a maximum weight limit of 13 stone.

Equipment required

Folder with dividers to organise your work and assignments. Stationery including notepad for use in class, pens and pencils. Riding hat and hairnets. Hats must be at current British Standards with logo (PASO15, VG1, ASTM F1163 or SNELL 2001). Hats solely with BSEN 1384 will not be accepted. Dark coloured riding gloves, jodhpurs and waterproof coat. College-branded polo shirts and sweatshirts. Yard boots or wellington boots. A change of footwear for the classroom. For riding units, you will also need a body protector for jumping (BETA Level 3 009 with purple tag) (air jackets are not permitted), long riding boots or short boots with gaiters (leather) and a schooling/jumping whip.

Your next steps...

You will be able to progress to the Level 2 Diploma at the college.

The course provides you with opportunities to seek a junior position in industry, including grooms and yard workers. More senior positions can then be pursued.

Additional information

https://www.bishopburton.ac.uk/study/view-all-courses/Level-1-in-Work-Based-Horse-Care

For more courses like this, check our courses page.