About the course
This BHSQ Work-based Diploma course has replaced the NVQ award as a Level 1 introductory course in order to fit the new National Qualifications and Credit Framework.
This highly practical course is an excellent first step into the equine world. A passion for horses is transformed into a meaningful industry recognised qualification during this one year course.
This study programme covers the basics of horse care including essential everyday stable duties and grooming. Students look after the College horses, learning safe techniques for leading, turning out and catching them.
Key Information
Location: Liverpool Campus or Preston Campus
Course length: One Year (35 weeks)
Available course dates: Please select the appropriate campus and start date to apply online.
Liverpool Campus
September 2026
Preston Campus
September 2026
Course Modules
Assist with Cleaning Tack and Horse Clothing
Assist with Cleaning the Stables and Yard
Assist with Feeding and Watering Horses
Assist with Putting on and Taking off Horse Rugs
Assist with Putting on and Taking off Tack
Catch and Move Horses Under Direction
Groom and Wash Horses Under Direction
Lead and Control a Horse for Inspection Under Direction
Maintain Good Working Relations with Others
Maintain Health and Safety in the Workplace
Mount and Dismount Quiet Horses Under Supervision
Principles of Catching and Moving Horses Under Direction
Principles of Cleaning Tack and Horse Clothing
Principles of Cleaning the Stables and Yard
Principles of Feeding and Watering Horses
Principles of Grooming and Washing Horses Under Direction
Principles of Leading and Controlling a Horse for Inspection Under Direction
Principles of Maintaining Good Working Relations with Others
Principles of Maintaining Health and Safety in the Workplace
Principles of Mounting and Dismounting Quiet Horses Under Supervision
Principles of Putting on and Taking off Horse Rugs
Principles of Putting on and Taking off Tack
Principles of Riding Horses in an Enclosed Area
Ride Horses in an Enclosed Area Under Supervision
Entry requirements & additional information
This course gives a practical introduction to the equine industry. Students need to be over 16, demonstrating confidence and competence in basic horse care skills 3 GCSE Grade 1 -2 including English or Maths or equivalent Entry Level 3 Qualification. Please note there is a maximum weight limit of 14.5 stone for the riding units.
Stable management will be developed within the College yard and students will gain a comprehensive knowledge of horse care. It is extremely popular with school leavers who wish to combine a practical based training programme with sound theoretical knowledge. This course is ideally suited to students who wish to spend a year developing their knowledge and experience working with horses. The course contains plenty of practical work and so students applying for this course will be expected to be hardworking, keen to learn about horse care and willing to be hands on when working on the stable yard.
The optional Riding Unit allows students to develop their riding ability and skills. Students taking this unit will have one riding lesson per week.
Myerscough has some of the best teaching and event facilities in the UK. Students completing this one year course will be well prepared for employment in the equine industry.
City and Guilds Level 2 Technical Certificate in Equine Care or BHSQ Level 2 Diploma in Workbased Horse Care (Liverpool)
Costs that are mandatory for the course:
Specialist Clothing and Equipment: Costs approx £100
Plain navy blue or black jodhpurs
College sweatshirt/ polo shirt in navy/ black, or similar plain sweatshirt/ polo shirt
Navy or black jacket (warm and waterproof advised)
Boots for yard work � wellingtons or strong boots
Riding hat to current standard with kitemarks � PAS 015 (2011), VG1 01.040 (2014-12), ASTM F1163 (2004a or 04a onwards), SNELL E2016, AS/NZS 3838 (2006 onwards) or EN1384:2023.
Gloves and hairnet
Riding boots or leather gaiters (suede chaps are not allowed as they rub the horse�s sides)
Jumping whip and schooling whip
Back protector is compulsory for jumping lessons
(Hooded jumpers, bright or garish clothing is not acceptable on the yards)
Resources and Facilities Contribution, approximately £95 Preston, £30 Liverpool (subject to change).
Costs that are optional for the course:
Students will be given the opportunity to participate in enrichment activities throughout the duration of the course. For example:
Horse of the Year Show £35
HAPPA £5
Badminton Horse Trials £150