Free Level 2 Equine Care Course in Newcastle upon Tyne. Classes run at Northumberland College Kirkley Hall Campus, full-time during the day. You'll need four GCSEs at grade 3 to 9, including Maths and English, plus some equestrian experience to join. The course covers grooming, feeding, stable management, and horse anatomy, combining classroom learning with practical work. You'll study both riding and non-riding aspects of horse care, so the programme suits a range of interests and career directions.
Who this course is for
Unlock the potential of a rewarding career with horses with our Level 2 in Equine Care. This course offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, making it ideal for those passionate about equine well-being. Whether you prefer hands-on horseback experiences or wish to focus on non-riding aspects, this programme adapts to your interests and career aspirations. You'll learn essential skills such as grooming, feeding, and stable management, and gain insights into horse anatomy and health care practices. Our exceptional facilities, including indoor and outdoor arenas and a horse walker, provide the perfect learning environment. Whether you�re grooming competition horses or mastering the flat ride, each step prepares you for a fulfilling equine career, supported by a nurturing educational environment?
Entry requirements
You will need 4 GCSE's at grade 3-9 including Maths and English and some equestrian experience.
What you will learn
You'll develop grooming techniques and understand best practice for horse welfare.
You'll learn how to plan and manage feeding routines for horses.
You'll study stable management, including daily care and yard routines.
You'll gain knowledge of horse anatomy and how it relates to health and movement.
You'll explore equine behaviour and how to handle horses safely.
You'll build practical skills through hands-on experience with horses.
How you will learn
You'll learn through a mix of classroom sessions and practical, hands-on work with horses. Assessment is based on the City and Guilds Technical Certificate requirements, covering both theoretical knowledge and demonstrated practical skills. Your progress will be assessed through assignments, observations, and practical tasks carried out as part of your day-to-day training.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Northumberland College Kirkley Hall Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Groom: caring for horses day-to-day in yards or stables.
Stable hand: supporting yard operations and horse welfare.
Equine yard assistant: general yard duties and horse handling.
Riding school assistant: supporting lessons and horse care.
Horse care worker: welfare and husbandry roles at equine centres.
Livery yard worker: managing horses kept at livery yards.
What you could study next
Level 3 Diploma in Horse Care and Management: deepens your knowledge and prepares you for supervisory or specialist roles in equine settings.
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Equine Management: a broader qualification for those aiming toward yard management or equine business roles.
Apprenticeship in Racehorse Care or Equine Groom: earn while you work and gain industry-recognised experience alongside your qualification.