Free Level 2 Equine Care Course in St Albans

CostFREE
Duration36 weeks
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body

About this course

Free Level 2 Equine Care Course in St Albans. Classes run full-time at Oaklands College St Albans Campus, five days a week during the day. The course runs for 36 weeks and is highly practical, with a strong focus on stable yard work and hands-on horse care. You'll build knowledge of horse management and explore the range of careers the equestrian industry offers. To apply, you'll need a minimum of four GCSEs at grades 9 to 3, including a grade 4 in maths or English, plus a Level 1 qualification.

Who this course is for

This course is ideally suited to students who wish to spend a year developing their knowledge and experience working with horses. The course is highly practical and learners applying for this course will be expected to be hardworking, keen to learn about horse care and willing to take a �hands on� approach when working on the stable yard.

The course is designed to introduce you to the many career options within the equestrian industry and youu will develop the knowledge and practical skills you�ll need to work within the industry.

You will also have the opportunity to study for British Horse Society qualifications such as the BHS Preparation for Stage 1 and Stage 2 examinations.

Entry requirements

A minimum of 4 GCSEs at grade 9 - 3 including a grade 4 in either maths or English and a Level 1 qualification.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop practical horse care and stable yard management skills.
  • You'll learn how to handle and work safely with horses.
  • You'll study horse health, nutrition, and general welfare.
  • You'll explore the range of career options within the equestrian industry.
  • You'll build knowledge of equine behaviour and how to respond to it.
  • You'll gain experience working in a stable yard environment.

How you will learn

Learning is classroom-based and highly practical. You'll spend time in the stable yard applying skills directly with horses. Assessment is through a combination of practical observations, assignments, and written tasks that test both your knowledge and your ability to work hands-on with horses.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Oaklands College St Albans Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Groom. Day-to-day care and exercise of horses in a yard.
  • Stable hand. Mucking out, feeding, and general yard duties.
  • Riding school assistant. Supporting instructors and caring for school horses.
  • Equine yard worker. Practical horse management on a private or commercial yard.
  • Horse breeder's assistant. Supporting breeding operations and foal care.
  • Livery yard assistant. Managing horses kept on behalf of their owners.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Extended Diploma in Horse Management. A natural next step if you want to deepen your equine knowledge and move into supervisory or specialist roles.
  • Level 3 Diploma in Farriery. For those interested in the specialist trade of horseshoeing and hoof care.
  • British Horse Society (BHS) qualifications. Industry-recognised awards that support careers in riding instruction and yard management.

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