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LEVEL 3 EXTENDED DIPLOMA IN HORSE MANAGEMENT

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

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

Applicants should have 4 GCSEs at grades A* - C, 2 of which must be English, Maths or Science or have a full level 2 qualification at Merit in a relevant subject.

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 perform early morning or afternoon duties. During year 2 management duties take place every 4th week.

Course Content

Year 1

  • Understand and promote animal health
  • Plan and monitor animal feeding
  • Prepare horses for presentation
  • Undertake stable and yard management
  • Understand animal anatomy and physiology
  • Understand and apply the principles of horse fitness
  • Understand the principles of animal nutrition
  • Understand the principles of equitation
  • A choice of either:
    - Understand the principles of horse behaviour and welfare
    - Riding and exercising horses
  • Functional skills

Year 2

  • Understand the principles of animal biology
  • Contribute to managing an equine event
  • Select, fit and evaluate horse tack and equipment
  • Business management in the land-based sector
  • Introduction to the principles of young horse handling, training and backing
  • Working horses from the ground
  • Functional skills

Plus a choice of the following units:

  • Understand the principles and practices of an equine stud or Undertake equestrian teaching
  • Investigative project or Riding horses on the flat
  • Understand the principles of horse rehabilitation and therapy or Riding horses over fences

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.