Horse Care (Equine Studies) - Level 2 (Diploma)

Our Level 2 course is suitable for learners who want to further their basic knowledge and skills. This programme provides learners with fundamental knowledge of essential topics like horse biology, handling and care, partnered with the practical skills necessary to initiate a career in the equine industry.

What will I study on this course?

You can expect to participate in practical sessions to secure your understanding of the topics taught.

The topics covered on this course include:

• Horse handling and care
• Working in the Equine Industry (events and duties; 150 hours work experience)
• Introduction to horse biology, anatomy and physiology
• Feeding and watering
• Horse health and welfare
• Riding horses (riding is optional)
• Health and Safety in the Equine environment
• Routine stable duties

Work placement

If you study this course, you'll complete 150 hours of relevant work experience to help apply what you've learned into a real life work environment. Over the last few years, our equine students have completed work experience in equine yards, larger equestrian centres, specialist therapeutic riding centres, polo clubs and much more.

Riding at CWA

Both our level 2 and level 3 equine courses have optional ride pathways. To be accepted onto a ride pathway you will need a riding ability that is close to British Horse Society (BHS) Stage 2 Ride or Pony Club C+ test. You need to be confident riding a range of horses in walk, trot and canter, with and without stirrups, and be able to safely control your horse working in an arena with other riders. Please note CWA does not expect you to have achieved any riding qualifications before joining the course this is just a guide to the standard required to do the assessed ride pathway.

Students not on the ride pathway may get the opportunity to ride as part of our Equine Yard Rewards Scheme.

To protect the welfare of our horses, we operate a weight restriction for riding of maximum 15% of the body weight for each horse. Exact weight limits therefore vary for each horse but typically the maximum weight allowance is 90kg (14 stone).

Successful completion of this qualification can lead to employment as an assistant groom or yard assistant in various equestrian environments (riding schools, livery yards, competition yards). You could also go on to more advanced qualifications such as a Level 3.

This programme is continually assessed by a combination of written tests, projects, assignment work and demonstration of competence in a range of practical tasks.

You will need:

• A minimum of 3 GCSEs at Grade 3 or above

Or:

• A relevant Level 1 qualification at merit grade
  studied at CWA or another further education provider. This does not include level 1 courses studied at school alongside GCSEs. Plus Grade 3 or above in GCSE English.

Some previous contact with horses is strongly advised. You do not need to be able to ride, as there are ride and non-ride pathways on this course.

You will be invited to an information session to help us ensure the course is right for you.