BTEC First Certificate in Horse Care
This course is available for non riders and riders of all abilities.
What is a BTEC First Certificate in Horse Care?
A BTEC First Certificate is a practical, work-related course. Students learn by completing projects and assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations, activities and demands. It introduces students to the employment area they have chosen and provides a good basis to go on to a more advanced work-related qualification. A BTEC First Certificate is equivalent to two GCSEs grades A*- C.
This course is suitable for students who wish to receive education and training in the horse industry. It will enable learners to start building the technical skills and knowledge relevant to the horse welfare and training.
The course will provide a good progression route to more advanced qualifications e.g. BTEC Nationals which can then lead on to Degree courses in Equine Science, or Business and Stud Management. This course can also lead to students wishing to undertake BHS Exams or apprenticeships within the industry, such as Eventing and Dressage yards.
What is the Course Structure?
Students will receive top level training by William Blane FBHS and his team at his private training yard for Event horses. William is a well known figure in the horse industry. He is an Accredited British Eventing Trainer and Chief Examiner of the Pony Club 'A' test - running and overseeing all the Pony Club 'A' test exams in the country.
Pupils he has trained and encouraged in the competitive field include:
- Leslie Law-Olympic individual gold medallist and team silver medal 3DE
- Graham Law - International Three Day Event Rider
- Tristram Owers - Completed Badminton
- Louise Skelton - Completed Badminton and Burghley
- Claire Phillips - Completed Badminton and Burghley
- Richard Johnson - Leading Hunt Jockey
- Jane Donaven - World Championships Silver Medal Winner - Endurance Riding
The course will provide students with a broad understanding of horse welfare and care. They will be expected to complete coursework and carry out training and work in the following units:
- Introduction to Horse Care and Stable Management
- Horse Behaviour and Welfare
- Horse Preparation and Presentation
Important Information
The course does not require students to ride but we believe it is important for a student to experience and develop riding skills. Therefore a small unit will be written into the two year course where students will receive group lessons according to their prior riding ability. This will not be examined so non riders can learn the basic riding skills in this unit.
Students wishing to take this course will be expected to attend a friendly interview with William Blane held at The Hereford Academy. Parents will be welcome to attend.