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NATIONAL DIPLOMA IN HORSE MANAGEMENT (LEVEL 3)

Horse and rider jumping a fence, skills taught on a equine course at Hadlow College

Resources

  • 64 horses, a number of which are ex-competition, including foals and stallions
  • 2 indoor arenas, one of which is international size (35m x 60m)
  • Outdoor manege (40m x 50m)
  • Extensive cross country courses including water jumps, coffins and banks
  • Show jumping paddock and jumping lane
  • Horse weighbridge, high speed treadmill, horse walker and stocks
  • Science laboratories
  • Recognised competition and BHS examination centre

Typical Employers
Competition centres, yards, research centres, feed manufacturers, event management agencies, equine welfare organisations, riding schools, racing yards, studs and equine veterinary clinics.

Industry Links

Students at Hadlow receive a 5% discount at Speedgate Saddlery.  Students also benefit from strong links with international competition riders, the Society of Master Saddlers, Ken Lyndon-Dykes and the partnership with Bell Equine veterinary practice.

More about Equine Courses faculty

Learning about the structure and function of a horse’s various systems, and how these systems affect its health and performance, students broaden their knowledge of horse care as well as gain an understanding of business practices and procedures. Through working in the College yard you will benefit from opportunities to develop your practical and supervisory skills. You will be involved in all aspects of the daily care, handling, training and management of a variety of horses. At the end of the course you should have a fully rounded view of the equine industry.

Entry Requirements

4 GCSEs at Grade C or above, with preferably 1 in Mathematics, English or Science.
National Award in a relevant subject.
First Diploma at Merit or above.

Additional Experience
Students should possess a minimum of 1 year's riding experience (if the riding option is chosen). Life experiences will be taken into account when considering applications.

Location
Hadlow

Course Duration
2 years, 4 days per week. During year 1 students work 1 weekend in every 3, and early morning or afternoon duties. During year 2 management duties take place every 4th week.

Course Content

Year 1

  • Horse behaviour and welfare
  • Practical equitation (riding)
  • Animal biology
  • Horse rehabilitation and therapy
  • Grassland production and utilisation
  • Theory of equitation
  • Horse husbandry
  • Horse fitness and training
  • Work related experience in the horse sector (60 days)
  • Key skills

Year 2

  • Animal anatomy and physiology
  • Equine event management
  • Stable skills and tractor driving
  • Young horse stock training
  • Horse breeding and stud practices
  • Key skills

Plus a choice of four of the following units:

  • Riding over fences
  • Riding and training horses on the flat
  • Equestrian teaching (including BHS PTT)
  • Animal behaviour
  • Business management for land-based industries
  • Horse nutrition

Assessment Method
Continuous assessment through assignments, tests and practical observations. Students are encouraged to relate theory to practice in all assessments.

Progression Routes
Successful students can progress onto the FdSc or BSc (Hons) programmes. Alternatively they can pursue a career in the equine industry at a techincal or supervisory position.

Specialist Equipment Needed
You will need a BSI approved riding hat, riding boots, gloves, jodhpurs, navy blue jumpers or sweatshirts, body protector, whip and grooming kit.