Equine
The equine industry is a rewarding and exciting world to be a part of. It’s filled with opportunities and is the perfect career for someone who wants to work with horses or ponies. Horse care is our heritage and we have forged connections with many established employers, and partnerships with top equine organisations to offer the very best chance to succeed in the equine industry.
As the leading skills trainer in the equestrian sector, we are the preferred training provider for British Showjumping and British Eventing. We are also delighted to offer exclusive discounted direct entry to BHS Stages in partnership with The British Horse Society.
What to expect from our equine qualifications
Whatever an individuals experience or career goals, we have a course to kick-start their career within the equine industry. We deliver quality, hands-on horse care courses that will provide a strong foundation for a rewarding career, and enables learners to earn a wage whilst they learn. We offer qualifications that can suit any skill level and a variety of career interests and aspirations. We work with a wide array of employers from horse riding and livery stables, equestrian centres, breeding and stud yards to some of the top dressage, eventing and showjumping yards across the country.
In addition to receiving a qualification, valuable work experience and support from expert Trainer Coaches and employers, we also offer several additional benefits, including discounted membership to the British Grooms Association (BGA).
What will be learnt during our equine qualifications
Working as an equestrian is a varied and rewarding career. Individuals will develop within the industry and advance their level of horse care understanding, alongside developing the ability to coordinate the day-to-day care of horses. As a senior equine groom apprentice there is also opportunity for participants to progress their skills to manage a team in the workplace.
Our equine apprenticeships can be tailored to different specialisms including riding, yard-based (non-riding), breeding, and racing. They each provide a solid foundation in horse care and a strong start to a career working with horses.
Horse care options
Level 2 Equine Groom is ideal for individuals with minimal horse riding or horse care experience, providing a solid groundwork to launch their equine career. This qualification ensures participants are trained to become fully competent members of staff, with the skills and knowledge needed to care for horses and be consistent in their work. The qualification also increases confidence in working with horses or ponies, in a team and in the workplace.
Level 3 Senior Equine Groom is for those with more experience of working with horses in a busy environment, and focuses on more advanced horse care skills and knowledge, as well as the ability to lead and organise a team. This course will ensure individuals are trained to become an experienced senior member of staff, with the capability to plan, prepare and oversee activities on the yard.
Level 2 Equine Groom
Minimum of 13 months
Level 2 is aimed at those entering the equine industry with little to no experience. Our qualification will equip you with the knowledge and skills to meet the needs of this diverse, vocational industry.
Level 3 Senior Equine Groom
Minimum of 13 months
Level 3 is for those with a level of experience working with horses in an equine business. Our qualification will equip you with the knowledge and skills to work confidently in a more senior role, developing advanced knowledge and abilities.
" The best part about my apprenticeship is being able to work with a variety of different horses across disciplines. My employer has been extremely supportive and is always encouraging me to expand my learning and experiences. "
What happens after completing an equine apprenticeship
There are so many options open to individuals who have completed an equine apprenticeship, all of which can lead to different horse care related jobs. We are excited to help people on their journey and know that our qualifications will empower them to increase their knowledge and experience across the sector.
On completion, learners could chose to explore progression into specialist roles including, but not limited to; stud manager, racing jockey, equine rehabilitation assistant, farrier, foaling specialist, riding instructor.
Whether already in an equine role, or planning to enter the industry, our apprenticeships provide individuals with an accredited qualification at no cost to participants.
Equine apprenticeships FAQs
Formal qualifications aren’t required to undertake an equine apprenticeship. When enrolling onto the course, learners will sit initial assessments in English and maths.
For our equine apprenticeships, individuals who haven’t obtained a GCSE grade 2 to 9, or a level 1 or 2 functional skills qualification in English and maths, will be required to develop these to meet a level 1 or level 2 standard through a formal assessment, depending on their chosen equine qualification.
Those hoping to complete a Senior Equine Groom apprenticeship will need to have prior experience with horses.
The equine industry is vast. There will be scope to move up the ladder, or across the disciplines. Our equine apprenticeships could lead to a number of job options, or further training in areas including equine rehabilitation, veterinary care, breeding, horseracing and instructing. We are also proud to work with The British Horse Society (BHS) to offer discounted direct entry to BHS Stages upon completion of the equine groom apprenticeship at either level.
Our Trainer Coaches are always on hand to help learners decide on their next step and support their individual career goals.
A genuine interest and some prior experience of being around horses would be beneficial, but this is not compulsory to enter the equine industry. An apprenticeship is a great way to enter the equine field. Learners will gain practical experience working with horses while being paid. Employers are keen to recruit passionate and driven individuals who will work hard and show commitment.
I am a learner
Start your career and apply for an apprenticeship or up skill in your current role to progress your career.
I am an employer
Businesses need to grow. Up-skill through our fully funded apprenticeships.
I am a parent
We have lots of apprenticeship vacancies. Your child will earn a wage while studying a qualification.