The qualification delivered is the British Horse Society stage one care, which is widely recognised in the equine industry. The qualification is ran through the Open Equine College and students learn remotely at the provision. The qualification offers students an introduction to the horse and how to care for them appropriately.

The qualification is made up of nine modules which include: 

Equine Anatomy 

Equine Behaviour 

The Stabled Horse 

The Grass Kept Horse 

Saddlery 

Foot, Shoeing and Lameness 

Feeding

Horse Health

All topics are accessible to students that do not have prior knowledge of horses. The qualification can be sat from the age of 13 upwards and study time is flexible depending on the individual student. The qualification can be sat year round at a BHS centre. If students do not feel ready to sit their qualification many colleges offer the exam on Equine and Animal courses so they have a head start with their studies when considering their next steps in education. 

We also deliver equine therapy which promotes physical and mental well-being when looking after and learning about horses. Equine therapy is great for students that want to experience the daily routine of a horse and learn about them without the pressure of a qualification. Many students enjoy being around the horses because they offer a calming nature. 

There has been more study recently into the effectiveness of equine therapy and results show that students of all abilities show better social functioning skills as well as reduced aggressive behaviour. Many students that have been based at our provision that have been observed have shown improved communication skills and behaviour has also improved when they work with the horses.