Houghall Campus
Course overview
Love horses? Start your potential future career working in the equine industry with this introductory course at our stunning Houghall Campus in Durham!
This course is mostly based at our multi-million pound equine centre. This amazing environment includes a large-size stable block, housing our own variety of horses, a specialist indoor arena, outdoor menage and we even have an incredible, state-of-the-art Racewood eventing simulator which you can use to practice your riding skills.
As part of your course you'll cover a mix of both theory and practical activities, with evidence captured throughout the year to record all the new skills you're gaining! You'll then use this build a portfolio of evidence for the course.
With help from our highly-experienced lecturers who've worked in the equine industry for years, plus our incredible Houghall equine unit, this course provides the ideal environment for you to gain both the theory and practical skills and knowledge to get started in the equine industry. We'll help you by developing your essential employability skills and preparing you for further training or potentially even working as an equine apprentice in the future.
Topics
You'll cover a wide variety of topics as part of your Level 1 Horse Care course, including:
• Maths & English
• Health & Safety and Safe Working Practices
• Work Experience
You'll also get involved with/assist with the following:
• Feeding & Watering
• Maintaining Health
• Preparing Accommodation
• Preparing for Exercise
• Exercising Horses (under supervision)
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!
Further study options after this course
Level 2 Technical Diploma in Equine/Animal Care/Land & Wildlife/Agriculture.
You must achieve a minimum grade of Merit in this qualification and a GCSE in Maths OR English at grade 4 to progress to a Level 2 Technical qualification. Learners who do not meet the maths & English may be offered an alternative qualification.
Entry requirements
Our entry requirements are reviewed annually and are subject to change as qualifications, awarding bodies and assessment criteria evolve.
Due to the practical nature of the compulsory course assessments, you must be physically able to carry out practical tasks by yourself after proper training.
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.
For the latest qualifications and grades required by course type/level, please follow this link to check the most up-to-date entry criteria for direct entry and internal progression at the college.
How is this course assessed?
You will be assessed throughout the course through written tasks and practical activities. There is also a multiple choice test on safe working and health & safety.
When does the course start?
September 2025
Length of course
One year programme, full time.
Fees & Funding
Please read our Course Fees & Funding page.
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.
