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LEVEL 2 DIPLOMA IN HORSE CARE

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 Equestrian Studies faculty

Enhancing your practical skills and subsequent employability, this course is ideal for those students seeking a career in the horse industry or who wish to progress onto a higher level course. You will learn how to handle and understand a variety of horses as well as develop your riding, horse husbandry and communication skills. In addition to the highly practical content, you will study horse behaviour and welfare, nutrition and learn how to correctly exercise a horse on the flat and over fences.

Entry Requirements

Applicants should have a profile of a minimum of 4 GCSEs, 2 of which should be at grades C - D.  This profile should also preferably include 2 in English, Maths or Science.

Location
Greenwich , Hadlow

Course Duration
1 year, 4 days per week (incuding early morning or afternoon duties each week).

Course Content

  • Carry out and understand the principles of feeding and watering
  • Fit and maintain horse tack and clothing
  • Introduction to lungeing horses
  • Introduction to riding horses on the flat
  • Introduction to the principles of horse behaviour
  • Maintain animal health and welfare
  • Functional skills

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 further their skills by enrolling onto a work-based qualification, Apprenticeship or the Level 3 Extended Diploma. Alternatively should they wish to do so, they may gain employment in the equine industry as a groom, stablehand, retail assistane or rider.

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