Free Level 2 Equine Care Course in York. Classes run at Askham Bryan College, full-time during the day over one year. You'll cover horse feeding and watering, stable duties, horse handling, tack and clothing, and riding. Learning combines lectures, guest speaker talks, visits, practical sessions in the Animal Unit, and work experience. Entry requires four GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including two from English, Maths and Science, or a suitable Level 1 vocational qualification with English and Maths at Level 1.
Who this course is for
For those looking for an entry level course in Equine Care
What you will learn
You'll plan and monitor feeding and watering programmes for horses.
You'll carry out routine stable duties, including mucking out and yard maintenance.
You'll handle and groom horses safely and correctly.
You'll fit and care for horse tack and clothing.
You'll learn the basics of equine biology and animal health.
You'll maintain animal welfare and accommodation to recognised standards.
You'll develop riding skills under supervision.
How you will learn
Your work is assessed continually throughout the course. Learning takes place through classroom lectures, talks from guest speakers, off-site visits, and hands-on practical sessions in the Animal Unit. You'll also complete work-related experience on the stable yard. Physical activity forms a large part of the programme, so you should be prepared to work practically in both yard and academic settings.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Askham Bryan College will confirm anything else you need before you start. The course involves physical yard work, so suitable clothing and footwear for stable environments is strongly advisable.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Groom: caring for horses day-to-day on a yard
Stable hand: supporting yard operations and horse welfare
Riding school assistant: helping instructors and managing horses
Equine yard worker: general yard duties at livery or competition yards
Horse care assistant: supporting equine health and welfare in a team
Trekking centre assistant: leading and caring for horses at trekking centres
What you could study next
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Horse Management: a deeper study of equine science, management and business, suited to those aiming for supervisory or specialist roles.
Level 3 NVQ in Horse Care: a work-based qualification that builds practical competence and is valued by employers across the equine industry.
Level 3 Diploma in Farriery or Equine Therapy: specialist routes for those interested in a specific equine profession.
