Course Overview
The Level 2 Technical Diploma in Equine Studies is a one-year study programme that has been designed to introduce learners who want to start a career in Equine. It has been designed to enable learners to develop the skills and behaviours that will provide them with the best opportunity to be successful working within the industry or, to progress further with their educational studies. Learners will study a variety of units, from Principles of Working with Horses, Equine Preparation and Plaiting and Introduction to Equine Biology and Health, these will provide them with an overview of the concepts of Equine management. Alongside their course, learners will also enhance their broader skills in literacy, numeracy and digital skills, which will be invaluable in supporting progression. Learners will be supported throughout their journey by a team of highly-experienced lecturers, learning support and wellbeing staff.
The units listed below reflect the subjects currently offered on this course but are subject to change:
- Equine Tack and Equipment
- Equine Preparation and Plaiting
- Introduction to Equine Biology and Health
- Principles of Working with Horses
- Equine Work Placement
- Practical Equine Behaviour
- Practical Yard Duties
All students have access to all the equine facilities, this includes The Therapy Centre, Rider Performance Suite. This course is a mix of both practical and theory teaching. You will also complete an external equine-based work placement and yard duties on the College Equine Yard within the year. Learners will be supported by highly qualified lectures, the academic support team and wellbeing.
Assessment will take place via both internal and external assessment methods, including written assignments, oral presentations, practical and the completion of two externally set examinations, one for Principles of Working with Horses and one for Introduction to Equine Biology and Health. Support is available for all learners accessing the course in the form of 1:1 tutorials, learning support and exam arrangements.
Course Overview
Course information
The Level 2 Technical Diploma in Equine Studies is a one-year study programme that has been designed to introduce learners who want to start a career in Equine. It has been designed to enable learners to develop the skills and behaviours that will provide them with the best opportunity to be successful working within the industry or, to progress further with their educational studies. Learners will study a variety of units, from Principles of Working with Horses, Equine Preparation and Plaiting and Introduction to Equine Biology and Health, these will provide them with an overview of the concepts of Equine management. Alongside their course, learners will also enhance their broader skills in literacy, numeracy and digital skills, which will be invaluable in supporting progression. Learners will be supported throughout their journey by a team of highly-experienced lecturers, learning support and wellbeing staff.
What you’ll learn
The units listed below reflect the subjects currently offered on this course but are subject to change:
- Equine Tack and Equipment
- Equine Preparation and Plaiting
- Introduction to Equine Biology and Health
- Principles of Working with Horses
- Equine Work Placement
- Practical Equine Behaviour
- Practical Yard Duties
How you’ll learn
All students have access to all the equine facilities, this includes The Therapy Centre, Rider Performance Suite. This course is a mix of both practical and theory teaching. You will also complete an external equine-based work placement and yard duties on the College Equine Yard within the year. Learners will be supported by highly qualified lectures, the academic support team and wellbeing.
How you’ll be assessed
Assessment will take place via both internal and external assessment methods, including written assignments, oral presentations, practical and the completion of two externally set examinations, one for Principles of Working with Horses and one for Introduction to Equine Biology and Health. Support is available for all learners accessing the course in the form of 1:1 tutorials, learning support and exam arrangements.
To study this course, you’ll need a minimum of three grade 3 GCSEs to include English and a Science.
You should expect some small costs for books and stationery. There will also be opportunities to take part in trips related to the topics you are studying. These trips incur a charge/are covered by the educational visits fee.
Students are required to pay a non-refundable educational visits fee at enrolment.
All riders are expected to provide their own up to standard riding equipment and small kit list is sent out with joining instructions prior to enrolment. This includes all general riding equipment and a plaiting kit.
Is there an opportunity for students to study English and/or Maths alongside their course to improve on their grades?
Yes, students who achieved a Grade 3 or lower at GCSE will be required to attend lessons in these subjects in preparation for sitting exams/assessments at the end of the academic year. Learners will either be entered for Functional Skills or GCSE.
Will learners be able to progress to study a Level 3 qualification on completion of the Level 2?
Yes, students who successfully achieve the Level 2 Technical Diploma in Equine Studies, with an MM, will be interviewed to progress onto the Level 3 Extended Certificate in Equine Management.
Why study Equine at Hartpury College?
Hartpury’s world-class equine facilities are used not only for formal learning but also for work experience, including at our own commercial Equine Therapy Centre and in our events department, supporting our international showpiece events and other high quality competitions, with the chance to work with some of the stars of the equine world. Many students also complete work placements out in industry, including at top yards and riding centres and in marketing and commercial roles.
Why study Equine at Hartpury College?
Hartpury’s world-class equine facilities are used not only for formal learning but also for work experience, including at our own commercial Equine Therapy Centre and in our events department, supporting our international showpiece events and other high quality competitions, with the chance to work with some of the stars of the equine world. Many students also complete work placements out in industry, including at top yards and riding centres and in marketing and commercial roles.
Outstanding
Rated 'Ofsted Outstanding in all areas' for academic and curriculum-related provision
99.8% pass-rate
With a 99.2% BTEC pass rate (Hartpury College 2025), our outcomes for students are exceptional.
Living in on-site college accommodation at Hartpury, you’ll be part of a vibrant and international community of students of all ages who share their experience of life at college and university together on one campus.
The Hartpury Certificate is an enrichment programme designed to support our students to grow.
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