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Free Level 3 Equine Management Course in Ipswich – Suffolk New College Suffolk Rural

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start9 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body
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About this course

Free Level 3 Equine Management Course in Ipswich. Classes run at Suffolk New College Suffolk Rural, full-time over two years. You'll study equine care, yard management, and the science behind horse health and behaviour. The course includes a riding pathway option. If you want to pursue that route, you'll attend a riding assessment so the centre can place you on the right pathway. To join, you'll need four GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English Language, Maths and Science, or a Level 2 qualification at Merit with GCSE Grade 4 in English Language and Maths. A reasonable level of physical fitness is required for yard work.

Who this course is for

Please see view the course at http://www.suffolk.ac.uk/courses

Entry requirements

4 GCSEs at a Grade 4 or above, including English Language, Maths and Science. Or, a Level 2 qualification (at Merit), plus GCSE Grade 4 in English Language and Maths. If you wish to pursue a Riding Pathway, you will be invited to a riding assessment, which we will use to determine the most appropriate pathway for you. Due to the practical nature of the course a reasonable level of physical fitness is required to complete essential tasks on the yard.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop knowledge of equine health, welfare, and nutrition.
  • You'll learn how to manage a yard safely and efficiently.
  • You'll study horse behaviour and how to handle horses confidently.
  • You'll gain practical skills in grooming, feeding, and daily horse care.
  • You'll learn about equine anatomy and common health conditions.
  • You'll explore business and management principles relevant to the equine industry.
  • You'll develop riding skills if you follow the riding pathway.

How you will learn

You'll learn through a mix of classroom sessions and hands-on practical work at the yard. Assessment includes assignments, practical observations, and written work. You'll build a portfolio of evidence throughout the two years. Practical tasks are assessed on the yard, so a reasonable level of physical fitness is required to complete them.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Suffolk New College Suffolk Rural will confirm anything else you need before you start. Suitable outdoor clothing and sturdy footwear are likely to be needed for yard work, so check with the centre when you enrol.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Groom or stud hand, caring for horses on a yard
  • Riding instructor, teaching clients of all levels
  • Yard manager, overseeing daily operations and staff
  • Equine therapist or physiotherapy assistant, supporting horse rehabilitation
  • Horse trainer, working with horses in competition or leisure settings
  • Equine nutritionist assistant, advising on feed and diet
  • Stable manager at a racing yard, livery, or trekking centre

What you could study next

A Level 3 equine management qualification can lead to further study in animal science or equine studies at degree level. You could progress to a Foundation Degree or BSc in Equine Science, Equine Business Management, or Animal Behaviour. Some learners go on to professional coaching qualifications through British Equestrian bodies. A higher-level equine management qualification can also open routes into yard management or equine business roles.

Apply on suffolk.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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