Free Level 3 Equine Management Course in Chelmsford – Writtle College

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Equine Management Course in Chelmsford. Classes run at Writtle College, full-time during the day, over two years. You'll need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English, Maths and Science, to join. The course combines practical and academic learning, covering the skills and knowledge needed to work in the equine industry or to move into higher education. This City and Guilds level 3 equine management qualification carries 1080 guided learning hours, equivalent to three A Levels.

Who this course is for

If you're looking for a well-rounded qualification that revolves around your passion for horses, this course may be just what you need. Your studies will combine practical and academic learning to give you a solid foundation in the skills and knowledge needed for a career in the industry, or to further specialise through higher education.

You can either take this course with 1080 guided learning hours (equivalent to 3 A Levels) or with 720 guided learning hours (equivalent to 2 A Levels).

Entry requirements

5 GCSEs at Grade 9-4 or A*-C Must include English, Maths and Science Satisfactory references from most recent school, college or employer

What you will learn

  • You'll develop practical horse care skills, including handling, grooming and health monitoring.
  • You'll study equine anatomy and physiology to understand how horses function.
  • You'll learn about nutrition and how to plan appropriate feeding programmes.
  • You'll explore stable management, yard routines and equine welfare standards.
  • You'll study breeding, reproduction and the management of mares and foals.
  • You'll develop knowledge of equine business management and the commercial side of the industry.
  • You'll build academic skills to support progression to higher education in equine or animal science.

How you will learn

Learning takes place in the classroom and through practical, hands-on sessions at Writtle College. You'll be assessed through a combination of written assignments, practical assessments and portfolio work. The course is structured around guided learning hours, giving you a mix of tutor-led sessions and independent study. Assessment is ongoing throughout the two years rather than through a single end-of-course exam.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Writtle College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Groom or stud hand, caring for horses day to day
  • Riding instructor, teaching clients at a livery or riding school
  • Yard manager, overseeing stable operations and staff
  • Equine therapist or physiotherapy assistant, supporting horse rehabilitation
  • Racehorse trainer's assistant, working in thoroughbred racing yards
  • Equine feed or product sales representative, advising clients on nutrition
  • Animal welfare officer, working with horses in a welfare or rescue setting

What you could study next

A Foundation Degree or BSc in Equine Science or Equine Management is a natural next step, and Writtle College offers higher education programmes in this area. You could also pursue a BSc in Animal Science or Veterinary Nursing if your interests move toward animal health. For those drawn to teaching riding, a British Horse Society (BHS) coaching qualification runs alongside or after degree-level study.