Need to know
Entry requirements
Duration: 1 year
3 GCSEs grades 9-3 OR equivalent qualification at Level 1.
Duration: 2 years
3 GCSEs grades 9-1 and a keen interest in the subject OR equivalent qualification at Level E3.
If you want to take the riding option of this programme you will be required to email evidence of your practical assessment (you will be given the criteria in the offer letter after interview).
What qualification will I gain?
Equine Care City & Guilds Level 2 Technical Certificate – plus English and maths qualifications if required.
How will I be assessed?
You will be assessed by a variety of methods including assignments, presentations and practical assessments. There are externally set and marked assessments for the mandatory units. This includes an externally set and moderated assignment and two externally set and marked exams, sat under examination conditions.
Course content
What will I study?
The programme will enable you to develop your skills in all areas of equine care, including handling, grooming and feeding. You will also learn how to fit and use a range of tack and equipment. There is an emphasis on equine health, welfare and behaviour, along with gaining an understanding of equine anatomy and physiology. There are both riding and non-riding options available.
Throughout the study programme you will continue to develop your skills in English and maths to assist you with progression to further study or employment.
Mandatory units:
- Health and safety for land-based industries
- Equine health and welfare
- Working in the equine industry
- Horse tack and equipment
- Undertake routine stable duties
- The principles of feeding and watering horses
- Horse handling and grooming
- Introduction to lunging horses
Specialist units may include:
- Introduction to equine anatomy and physiology
- Principles of horse behaviour
- Riding horses under supervision
English and maths:
If you don’t already have GCSE English and maths grade A*-C, we will work with you to help you develop your maths and English skills.
Work experience:
You will be required to participate in weekend yard duties every third week to enable you to develop and apply practical skills in a realistic working environment. There will be a two week work placement with a suitable equestrian provider to give valuable experience within sectors of the industry you may wish to work.?
Personal development skills, study skills and employability skills
Additional vocational learning and qualifications
Next steps
On successful completion of this study programme you may wish to apply for further full-time programmes. Along with GCSEs, this study programme will enable you to progress to the Equine Care & Management Advanced (Level 3).
Additional information
If commuting to Shuttleworth College will be difficult for you, then you can choose to live in our halls of residence on campus. Priority is given to those who live the furthest distance from the College so make sure you book early to avoid disappointment. Visit our accommodation page for more information – www.bedfordcollegegroup.co.uk/halls.
This course will involve a lot of physical activity and outdoor work. To take part in this course you may have to pay up to £200 for protective clothing unless you already have them. This will include boots, hat, body protector and gloves etc.
Any questions?
If you would like to find out more about this or other courses, please use our Livechat below, or contact info@bedfordcollegegroup.ac.uk.
