Horse Care Level 2

Course code: EFCM115P

Subject area: Equine Studies

Study level: School Leaver

Course level: 2

Course details

9:30am - 4:30pm

Monday to Friday

6th Sep 2021 - 1st Jul 2022

Common Leys Farm

Contact details

enquiries@abingdon-witney.ac.uk

01993 208148

This is a one year full time course, supported by periods of developing practical skills on the college’s equine yard. All aspects of horse care are covered throughout the year with a mixture of practical and classroom sessions. The course is designed to give you the skills and knowledge needed to work in the horse industry. Routine duties on the college yard are an integral part of the course and will give you a taste of what it is like to work full time with horses. Programme content includes; routine stable duties, horse handling and exercise, industry experience and horse feeding. As well as practical skills development such as grooming, plaiting, trimming and bandaging.

Students will be studying towards a study programme that will include their main vocational qualification, skills in English and Maths, Tutorials, Enrichment and Work Experience. These are essential skills for employment. Students will usually attend College 4-5 days a week from 9.30am -4.30pm.

The Level 2 Diploma in Horse Care is a one year, full time, college based course with a strong practical element where experience is gained at the College Equine Unit and nearby at equine enterprises. Students will complete a block of work experience, both at the equine unit and off site with local employers, during the year to continually develop their employability and general horse husbandry skills.

Modules covered may include:

• Clean and maintain stables
• Provide feed and water to horses
• Carry out routine care and monitor the health and well-being of horses
• Restrain horses using specified methods
• Monitoring and maintaining health and safety
• Maintain and develop personal performance
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with others
• Prepare a stable for a horse
• Fit and remove horse clothing
• Plait and trim horses manes and
• Clean and groom horses for appearance
• Assess grazing land for the introduction of horses
• Turn out, catch and maintain horses when turned out
• Fit, remove and maintain tack for exercise
• Care for horses after exercise
• Assist with the preparation of horses for sale
• Assist with receiving a horse and carry out an initial assessment
• Load and unload animals for transportation
On successful completion you may progress onto a Level 3 programme such as the City and Guilds Diploma in Horse Management, or into employment where you may be able to train for further qualifications as an apprentice.
4 GCSEs at grade 3 or above including Maths, English and one Science subject plus a successful interview and assessment day where you can demonstrate your suitability for the programme. Or a pass in a level 1 vocational qualifcation, minimum of E3 in functional skills English and maths and a successful interview and assessment day where you can demonstrate your suitability for the programme.
In addition to the main course fees given below there is an additional cost of approximately £50 for uniform and £50 for course trips. If you need to buy riding hat, boots and jodphurs then you should budget for costs in the region of £100. You may be eligible for a bursary to help with these costs. Please speak to our admissions team (Costs are given for guidance only.)

Due to COVID-19 we are not currently planning any trips as part of your course. If we are able to organise trips during your course, the cost of these will be communicated to you at the time. Trips are optional, and you will not be penalised if you choose not to participate. Bursaries may also available to cover the cost of some trips.

There are bursaries available to help you with other course cost, call 01235 216 298 for more information.

The 19+ full fee button displays the full fee that may apply, the rules on fee reduction are complicated and we would encourage you to talk to our Admissions staff on 01235 555 585 to discuss your options. Also see the Course Fees & Finance page by searching Fees and bursaries link at the top of the screen.

16 - 18 Fee

Tuition Fee: £0.00
Exam Fee: £0.00
Kit / Clothing: £195.00

Total Cost: £195.00


19+ Fee

Tuition Fee: £1,250.00
Exam Fee: £0.00
Kit / Clothing: £195.00

Total Cost: £1,445.00


19+ Reduced Fee

Tuition Fee: £0.00
Exam Fee: £0.00
Kit / Clothing: £195.00

Total Cost: £195.00

City and Guilds Level 2 Diploma in Work-based Horse Care.
Assessment is via a portfolio of evidence including written tasks, oral questions and practical assessments.
Excellent English and Maths skills are essential for your success on your chosen course and for your progression onto further courses and into employment. You will also develop good practical horse husbandry skills ready for industry and confidence whilst working around a variety of horses.