By studying a equine course at Hadlow College, you can become part of an industry which, with approximately 900,000 horses and 2 million riders in the UK, constantly needs well trained and devoted individuals to give expert care and tuition.
Our Equine Unit at Hadlow has outstanding facilities including two indoor arenas, a large outdoor arena and stabling for 64 horses. As well as a complete range of show jumps, there are also cross country fences suitable for students training at Level 3 and above. There is a horse walker, high speed treadmill and an extensive range of practical teaching resources.
Facilities at the Royal Borough of Greenwich Equestrian Centre include: 20 internal stables, indoor and outdoor riding arena, mechanical horse, equine therapy centre (with pool, hydro treadmill, spa and solarium), specialist classrooms / labs and treatment / demonstration areas.
There are horses ranging from school masters and ex-competition horses to youngstock, ensuring students are able to progressively develop their skills during the course
Students receive outstanding support from a team of highly qualified teaching staff with extensive and diverse experiences within the equine sector. The experience of training with excellent resources, combined with high expectations, both in lessons and during practical duties, gives every student the best opportunity to achieve. Students have exceptional opportunity to gain genuine hands on practical experience as well as ride and compete quality horses. They gain knowledge and develop their practical skills in horse husbandry, horse handling, grooming, application of tack and equipment, feeding and routine yard management. Students will also study horse behaviour and welfare, anatomy and learn how to work a horse correctly on the flat, and over fences, if the riding option is chosen.
In addition to the development of vocational skills, students will develop transferable skills such as; team work, effective communication, presentation skills and problem solving.
Students benefit from field trips to a variety of events and significant equine establishments. In the past these have included; The New Forest, Windsor Horse Show and The King’s Troop. Opportunity is also given to students to compete and help at College run using our horses.
The undertaking of vocational qualifications alongside their course are encouraged and supported such as the BHS examinations which are highly recognised by industry.
Work experience is built into all courses (including weekends and holidays) to ensure students develop the necessary employability skills that the industry requires.
Industry Links
As a BHS Where to Train Centre, Hadlow College runs examinations from BHS Stage 1 to Stage 3. Students receive excellent preparation for assessment from highly qualified, supportive staff.
Students also benefit from strong links with professional equine organisations, international event riders, the racing industry and Bell Equine Veterinary Practice.
Career Opportunities
- Assistant Yard Manager
- Yard Manager
- Event Organiser
- Riding Instructor
- Racing
- Competition Rider
- Therapy Centre Assistant
- Welfare Officer
- Equine Veterinary Nurse
- Retail
- Freelance Coach / Rider
- Competition Groom
- Equestrian Transporter
- Freelance Practitioner
- Nutritionist