BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma in Equine Management

Horses grazing in field.
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BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma in Equine Management

*In many cases courses are FREE subject to age, household income and/or prior attainment. Please read our Course Fees & Funding page.
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Course overview

If you have a passion for equine science and want to learn about the structure, diet, behaviour, and rehabilitation of horses, then this course is perfect for you. You will develop a strong scientific knowledge base by studying three core science modules. In addition, you will gain an academic understanding of equine science and refine your applied skills during your external work experience.

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Topics

• Equine Structure, Form and Function
• Horse Tack, Equipment and Rugs
• Equine Health and Husbandry
• Work Experience in the Land Based sector
• Preparation and Presentation for Competition Disciplines

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Job opportunities after this course

• Equine Retail
• Groom, Competition Groom, Racing Groom
• Horse Trainer
• Jockey
• Mounted Forces (Police Officer)
• RSCPCA Officer
• Yard Hand / Manager

... and so much more!

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Further study options after this course

Progression into higher education course in equine management. including equine science, equine behaviour, rehabilitation, sports coaching and business management.

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Entry requirements

5 x Grade 4 or above including maths, English and science.

Students must be physically capable of carrying out the course in relation to JCQ regulations.

In line with most BHS Approved Riding Schools and our animal welfare policy, we apply a 14 stone weight limit for the riding units in all our equine qualifications. Alternative units are offered and this will not impact your chances of achieving this qualification.

Our entry requirements are in place to support our students in achieving the qualifications they have chosen to study. In addition to the entry requirements, all students will be regularly assessed by East Durham College at an early stage in their study programme. This is to ensure that students are enrolled onto courses which suit their abilities – following assessment, there may be occasions when students are transferred to a relevant course at a higher or lower level in order to ensure they are enrolled on to the right course for them to achieve and progress.

Entry onto any course at EDC may have entry requirements in addition to exam results; this includes but is not limited to DBS checks, references, fitness to practice and at times physical requirements to be capable of achieving the practical elements of the course without assistance. Entry onto any course at East Durham College is subject to final approval from the Assistant Principal.

East Durham College's Houghall Campus is committed to providing a supportive and welcoming environment for all our students. The campus, some of which is over 80 years old, has seen over £40m invested in new facilities over recent years. However, there are still some aspects of the site which are not fully accessible and would cause an issue for those with limited mobility or wheelchair users and due to the nature of the site, adjustments may not always be reasonable at this stage. The College is committed to further investment and improvements of the site, as we work towards ensuring the campus is as accessible as possible. If you have limited mobility or are a wheelchair user and wish to undertake a course at the Houghall Campus, please contact Student Services on 0191 375 4710 in the first instance to discuss your needs and options.

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How is this course assessed?

150 hours work experience. Mix of external examinations, written and practical assignments.

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When does the course start?

September 2025

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Length of course

One year with option to top up to an extended diploma at the end of year one.

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Fees & Funding

Please read our Course Fees & Funding page.
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How to apply

To apply online for this course, please click on the 'Apply' button at the top/bottom of this page.

Alternatively, if you need assistance with your application or you would like to apply over the phone or using a paper-based application form, please call Student Services on 0191 743 0149.

If you're not quite ready to apply for this course and would like some more information or to speak to a member of staff then please click on the 'Enquire' button at the top/bottom of this page.

BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma in Equine Management

*In many cases courses are FREE subject to age, household income and/or prior attainment. Please read our Course Fees & Funding page.
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