• Full Time
  • Level 3

BTEC Diploma in Horse Management Level 3

Applications for full time 2025/26 courses are now closed.

2026/27 applications will open in November 2025.

Subject Area
Animal Care, Equine and Land-based
Start date
7 September 2026
Duration
1 year
Mode of study
Full Time
Location
Usk Campus
Level
3

Course Overview

This course will enable you to meet the demand in the equine industry for competent, well trained individuals.

…You’re progressing from a Level 2 Diploma in Horse Care

… You’re progressing from a Level 2 Work-based course

…You have relevant experience and wish to develop your skills

You will cover units in:

  • Riding on the flat and over fences
  • Teaching
  • Advanced husbandry skills and health
  • Equine science and reproduction
  • Work experience and key skills

The course also offers the opportunity to prepare for and take BHS (British Horse Society) exams up to Assistant Instructor (BHSAI) level.

You’ll benefit from the excellent facilities at the equestrian centre which is a BHS approved exam centre to intermediate instructor level. It is a compact, well equipped equestrian unit, comprising a stable yard which houses up to 15 horses for you to use for your riding and practical sessions. There are two full size modern all-weather surfaces, one of which is indoors, show jumps, a cross country schooling area and grazing paddocks. The centre is staffed by an experienced well qualified team who supervise and support you when undertaking yard duties and work experience. Through working in the college yard your understanding of horse care will be broadened.

You’ll be assessed through practical and written assessments and you’ll achieve:

To enter the course, you’ll need a minimum of 5 GCSEs grade C or above to include Maths/Numeracy, Science and English/Welsh First Language; or an appropriate Level 2 Diploma qualification at Merit grade with GCSEs to include Maths/Numeracy or English/Welsh First Language at grade C or above.

Full commitment to attendance is required. Respect for others, enthusiasm for the subject and self-motivation, along with a passion for equine studies are the essential qualities we expect to see in all our learners. You will be continually assessed and there is an expectation that you will continue your studies and coursework/work placement during your own time.

Successful completion of the Year 1 90 Credit Diploma will allow you to progress on to the second year and complete the full Extended Diploma. From there, progression routes include Foundation Degree in equine related subjects, higher BHS qualifications or employment in the equine industry.

Minimum of 5 GCSEs grade C or above to include Maths/Numeracy, Science and English/Welsh 1st Language; or an appropriate Level 2 Diploma qualification at Merit grade with GCSEs to include Maths/Numeracy or English/Welsh 1st Language at grade C or above

Please note that this is not only a practical course, there is an amount of written work included.

You will need an up to date tetanus injection before starting the course.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) will be required for the practical aspects of the programme including riding boots, Jodhpurs and a riding hat to the current safety standards. You will need to purchase these in advance of the course starting.

BHS exams will be an additional cost for which a BHS membership will also be required.

White horse in a stable

Usk Campus

Course Code
UFDI0309AC
Duration
1 year
Mode of study
Full Time

All courses may be subject to change and cancelled if deemed not viable to run.

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