When you enrol on an apprenticeship with us either as an equine groom or senior equine groom you have various options available to you that will allow you to focus your development.  These options are called pathways and here, we explain what they involve.

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Riding

The riding pathway is a great option for those who are considering a career in teaching, or job roles where riding would be a necessity (riding groom for competition rider, backing and breaking yards, etc.).

At level 2 (equine groom) you will learn the basics of riding horses, looking at correct aids and position, how to ride safely out on the roads and in open spaces, the rules of riding in an arena or a warm-up with others, how horses learn and develop, and how to safely and correctly ride and lead horses together. You will also learn the basic skills of riding on the flat with or without stirrups, jumping a small course of jumps, riding in open spaces, riding on the road, and riding and leading quiet horses.

At level 3 (senior equine groom) you will build on this knowledge and skill, developing it further into understanding the physical and psychological effect of exercise of the horse, and learning how to evaluate, feedback, and plan a horses fitness plan to develop it towards achieving the goals of its owner and rider. You will also develop your flat skills to include lateral work and developing a horse’s way of going, as well as developing technical skills for course riding and jumping bigger tracks.

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Non-riding

The non-riding pathway is ideal for those with career aspirations of yard management – perhaps running your own livery yard or being yard manager for a top competition rider!

At level 2 (equine groom) you will learn about the important day-to-day running of the yard, including how to manage stock take, order, and delivery, correct reporting procedures, rotas, and routines. You will also develop your customer service skills and your ability to use IT to manage records and promote the business.

At level 3 (senior equine groom) you will then develop this knowledge and skill; you will learn more about facility management and maintenance, how to manage and supervise staff, and how to correctly store and manage data adhering to legislation. You will also learn how to plan and run events, and how to actively promote your business on various platforms.

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Breeding

The breeding pathway is the right choice for those looking to pursue a career within a stud.

At level 2 (equine groom) you will learn the basics of the mare and stallion’s reproductive systems, teasing and covering processes and procedures, basic care for a mare in foal and how to care for a foal. You will learn skills in handling and moving mare and foals safely, as well as experiencing covering, foaling, and weaning.

At level 3 (senior equine groom) you will develop this knowledge and skill further, along with learning more about the management of a breeding programme, the management of stallions and mares, along with learning about artificial insemination (AI) and the detail behind each stage of labour for the mare. You will also develop your skills to be able to present a stallion for inspection, prepare youngstock for sales, manage health records, and take a more prominent role in the covering process, and foaling process.

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Racing

The racing pathway is the perfect stepping stone for someone looking to get into the racing industry and progress through the ranks. Whether it be becoming a head person, travelling staff or even a jockey.

Level 2 (equine racing groom) is an essential step into the racing industry and will give you the correct skills, knowledge, and behaviour to further your career. You will learn about the routines for working in a racing yard and taking horses racing including how to care for horses after strenuous exercise. Through the course you will also cover the racing industry structure, and key organisations plus much more.

Level 3 (senior equine racing groom) will develop and stretch you further by looking at the yard from a more senior role. You will learn about the organisation of the yard and saddling up at the races. You will also have the opportunity to school horses or jump out of the stalls. You will also learn about the conformation of a racehorse and how this will affect the movement of the horse.

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Which pathway is right for you?

Which pathway is the most suitable for you is decided with guidance from your Trainer Coach and chosen employer, who will take into full consideration your career aims and aspirations, what you are wanting to achieve, and what your employer is able to offer you in terms of facilities and training.

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If you are thinking of a career working with horses and would like more information, or some advice and guidance, get in touch today!

These are our options in England.  To find out about our horse care apprenticeships in Wales, just click here.