An apprenticeship is made up of a 'framework' which incorporates a work-based Diploma together with a Technical Certificate, Employment Rights and Responsibilities (ERR), Personal Learning and Thinking Skills (PLTS) and Functional Skills in Maths and English (unless you have achieved GCSE Maths and English at grade C or above in the past five years).
The Technical Certificate is the British Horse Society Stage 1 and 2 Care. Derby College will pay for one entry per exam for the Care element only.
You must be in employment and committed to a career in the equine industry. You will undergo an initial assessment before starting the programme to ensure that you are capable of achieving the outcomes and have an interest in this area of work.
You must complete seven mandatory units, an additional five units and a further three riding or five optional units depending on the career path you choose.
Career pathway units: you are able to choose a further five units from an additional 30 optional units.
City & Guilds NPTC Level 2 Diploma in Work-based Horse Care (QCF).
Training is largely work-based with on-going practical assessments undertaken in your workplace. You will keep a portfolio of evidence of your practical ability and theoretical understanding. Assessment is through practical observation in the workplace and at College, written questions, witness statements and photographic or/and video evidence which can be used.
College requirements are: steel toe-cap boots, correct standard riding hat, gloves, schooling and jumping whip and a body protector.
You can progress to the next level apprenticeship or to further industry qualifications.
You can advance your career in full–time employment in an equine yard.
Melissa Shanker had always wanted to work with horses. Riding since she was nine years old, she even took part-time jobs at stables while she was at school. So studying Horse Management – together with various BHS qualifications – at Derby College was the ideal route to her dream career. After leaving College, Melissa always managed to find work with horses. She is now based at Pool House Equine Clinic in Lichfield where she has become their first-ever trainee veterinary nurse. She assists the vets with daily appointments and emergencies, helps with surgical procedures and is learning about how the laboratory is run.
specific horse care knowledge which I wouldn’t have gained just through working at riding stables.