Level 3 Equine Management Course in Durham. Classes run at East Durham College Houghall Campus, full-time during the day over 36 weeks per year across two years. You'll cover a mix of theory and practical topics, with hands-on experience working on the Houghall equine unit, which houses horses for a range of abilities. Year one leads to a Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in horse management. Year two builds on that to complete the full qualification. This level 3 equine management qualification is awarded by City and Guilds.
Who this course is for
The course runs over 2 years with successful completion of year 1 resulting in you achieving a Level 3 subsidiary diploma in horse management. The second year ensures you will gain credits to achieve the Level 3 extended diploma in horse management. You will cover a mixture of theory and practical topics and get hands-on experience working on the Houghall equine unit. The equine unit houses a range of horses suitable for beginners to more advanced riders. You will have the opportunities to work with the full range of horses and learn how to look after horses correctly in a commercial setting.
Entry requirements
Direct Entry: At least five GCSEs at grade C or above including maths, English and science.
Progressive entry: Level 2 diploma in horse care at merit or above with a distinction grade in horse biology and a minimum of level 1 maths and English. Attendance at 85%+ for previous year and satisfactory standards of behaviour.
What you will learn
You'll develop practical horse care and stable management skills on a working equine unit.
You'll study equine biology and the science behind horse health and anatomy.
You'll learn how to assess and manage horses of varying ability levels.
You'll build knowledge of equine nutrition, welfare, and husbandry.
You'll practise riding and handling techniques with horses suited to your level.
You'll explore the management of equine facilities and yard operations.
How you will learn
Learning combines classroom-based theory sessions with practical work on the Houghall equine unit. You'll be assessed through a mixture of coursework, practical assessments, and written tasks across both years of the course. The two-year structure means assessment is ongoing, with credits building toward the full Advanced Technical Diploma.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. East Durham College Houghall Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start. You are likely to need suitable outdoor and yard clothing, including sturdy footwear, for practical sessions on the equine unit.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Groom or stud hand, caring for horses in yards or stables
Riding instructor, teaching clients of varying abilities
Horse trainer, working with horses in competition or leisure settings
Equine therapist or rehabilitation assistant, supporting horse recovery
Racehorse stable staff, working in thoroughbred yards
Equine feed or product sales representative, advising on horse nutrition
What you could study next
Higher National Certificate (HNC) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in Equine Studies, for those wanting to deepen specialist knowledge at Level 4 or 5.
Foundation Degree in Equine Science or Equine Management, offered at several universities and colleges, often with a top-up route to a full Bachelor's degree.
British Horse Society (BHS) qualifications, recognised by employers in riding instruction and yard management roles.
