Animal

Equine Groom - Level 2 Apprenticeship

Writtle University College are excited to be rolling out the new Equine Groom Apprenticeship Standard, which has been specifically designed by employers to meet the needs of industry and provide you with the skills and knowledge to succeed in your industry.

Apprentices will be entering a vocational industry, where they can expect to handle a variety of horses in different working environments. They must adhere to safe working practices, be prepared to work in all weather conditions and often in “out of hours” situations. They will be required to have dedication, commitment and the physical and mental toughness to cope with the rigours of the role.

In most cases the Equine Groom Apprenticeship is delivered predominantly in the workplace, with regular training workshops held at college by a qualified, professional members of staff with industry experience. Your tutor will work with you as you progress through the apprenticeship. At the end of the Apprenticeship you will be required to complete an independent End-Point Assessment to prove you have gained the required skills to achieve the Apprenticeship.

You will:

  • Work in your chosen industry for a minimum of 30 hours per week.
  • Get paid a minimum of the Apprenticeship Wage.
  • Study in a flexible way.
  • Be assessed and graded with either a pass, merit or distinction at the end of your programme by an Independent Assessment Organisation.
  • If you do not have a GCSE Grade 4 (C Grade) in Maths and English you will complete Functional Skills in English and Maths or there is the option to study for Maths and English GCSE (depending on previous qualifications).
  • Complete work-related tasks and assessments.
  • Receive mentoring visits in your workplace from your Writtle University College Training Officer, who will provide support, assess and review your progress.

Course Content

The apprentice will also select one of the specialised occupational pathways from breeding, riding, driving and non-riding.

Examples of some of the topics you may cover (depending on pathway)

  • Safe Working Practices
  • Yard and Field Routines and Duties
  • Horse Anatomy, Physiology and Welfare
  • Horse Handling, Care and Appearance
  • Saddlery and Equipment
  • Travelling Horses
  • Non-Ridden Exercise

Further details on the course content can be found on the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education website.

What are the progression options?

After completing an Equine Groom Apprenticeship at level 2, the natural progression route would be to progress on to the Senior Groom level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship, after which the option for continuing study would be to progress in to Higher Education or alternatively the Apprentice can progress in to full time employment within the industry.

This employment would likely be in the following type of job roles:
  • Stablehand
  • Groom
  • Stud Assistant
  • Riding School Assistant

How do I apply?

An apprentice needs to be in paid employment, so whilst you can apply for the Apprenticeship before you find an employer, you'll need to be employed before you can start the course. Many of our Apprentices already worked or volunteered for the companies who then decide to support them through their Apprenticeship. Our employers range from large local authorities and national contractors to micro companies. We are always happy to provide your employers with the information they need regarding potentially employing an Apprentice and can offer advice, however small or large businesses may be.

I don't have an employer

If you are interested in becoming an Apprentice, but don't have an employer please visit our website for tips on how to find an employer and to see a list of our current Apprenticeship vacancies.

I have an employer

If you have secured or are already in relevant paid employment with an employer willing to support you through the apprenticeship please complete the application form.