Skip to main content

Equine Foundation Apprenticeship Horse Care Level 2

At a glance

  • Part Time

  • 18 months

  • Pibwrlwyd Campus

A foundation apprenticeship is a work-based learning programme where the learner is earning while learning. It focuses on developing the skills required to enable the learner to gain full time employment in the equine industry. The programme is aimed at learners over the age of 16. The apprentice will be employed and receive at least the minimum apprentice wage.

Learners on this programme have the option of two study pathways. Pathway one incorporates the British Horse Society qualification route and is exam based. The second pathway involves building a portfolio of evidence through a City & Guilds work based diploma.

The apprentice will attend college one day a week. In college learners cover underpinning theoretical knowledge in horse care and specialist  practical skills to equip learners for the workplace. Learners should achieve the level two apprenticeship framework within 18 months.

Programme Features
  • All learners will be supported by a training adviser/assessor who will monitor progress towards achieving targets on a regular basis (every 56 to 61 days)
  • They will liaise closely with the employer to ensure that qualifications are achieved within the timescale
  • The apprentice is assessed in the workplace as and when required (every 56 to 61 days)
  • British Horse Society exams are recognised internationally as an industry standard.
  • The City & Guilds Work based diploma is an non-examined alternative pathway
  • Learners will study at Coleg Sir Gar, a British Horse Society approved examination centre based at its Pibwrlwyd campus. Facilities include an indoor school, outdoor menage and stables accommodation for approximately 14 horses.
Programme content

Examples of units of study include:

  • Equine nutrition
  • Anatomy and Physiology
  • Grassland Management
  • Stable design
  • Lunging a horse under supervision
  • Grooming, plaiting and fitting equipment
Progression and employment

Learners who have successfully completed this foundation apprenticeship at the required standard, can progress onto an apprenticeship at level three.

Method of assessment

BHS Horse Knowledge and Care and Riding and Road Safety examination which can be undertaken at Coleg Sir Gar’s Pibwrlwyd campus.

The learner will be continually assessed both in the workplace and at college which will include coursework, assignments, practical work, work based evidence and observations.

Entry requirements

There are no specific entry requirements, however there are qualifications or experience that will help learners understand the sector prior to starting, for example:

  • Pony Club C Test
  • BTEC Level 1 Certificate in Caring for Horses
  • Level 1 Work-based Diploma in Horse Care
  • BHS Stage 1 Horse Knowledge and Care
  • Level 1 NVQ in Horse Care
  • Previously worked in, or are currently working within the industry.

These programmes are part financed by the European Social Fund through the Welsh Government.

British Horse Society Gold Membership is required.

Inspiring Learners

Link to Coleg Sir Gar Instgram      Link to Coleg Sir Gar Facebook      Link to Coleg Sir Gar Twitter     Link to Coleg Sir Gar Linked In 

Get in Touch

Graig Campus
Sandy Road
Pwll
SA15 4DN
01554 748000
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.


Coleg Sir Gar is a company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales No. 08539630 and is a registered charity No. 1152522. 
The registered office is at The Graig Campus, Sandy Road, Pwll, Llanelli, Carmarthenshire, SA15 4DN