Every good horseman will wish also to be a good horse master. To be so you will need the knowledge and experience to deal with the various problems encountered when looking after a horse.

It is essential to understand fully every aspect of horse management. In dealing with horses there is a right way and a wrong way of doing everything. In general, the ‘right’ way is the safe way – safe to the groom and safe to the animal. To teach a right way in all things is the object of this course.

It should be the ambition of every good horseman to strive for the highest attainable standard in the turn out of his horse, in the management of the stable, in the care of tack, and in the cleanliness of the premises. Cleanliness is particularly important as germs, disease and infection thrive in dirty conditions.

Riding is one of the supreme partnerships that exist between man and animal. Few people will deny the beauty and grace of the horse. Most riders come to realise the horse’s generosity and gentleness. Through man’s own lack of thought, ability, knowledge or kindness, misunderstandings may occur, and a bad or an ungenerous horse may result. The aim is to help all who love horses to become better riders who in turn, will train better horses.

Good riders must apply themselves, both physically and mentally, to a never-ending task of learning. There is a life time of pleasure and discovery ahead, as there is for all who wish to learn. Every horse you ride is an individual, and will teach you something new. As your confidence and knowledge increases you will develop resourcefulness, courage and skills within yourself. Above all you will discover the joy of riding. We ride for our pleasure, but let us do it well. Our horses and our own enjoyment will then be enhanced.

The aim is for you to be able to:

• Handle a group of horses from the ground in a safe, controlled and sympathetic manner that benefits horse and riders

• Understand the body language of a horse

• Work with a horse in a polite but firm way

• Have a basic understanding of the “Natural Horsemanship”

• Have an idea on running your own yard and setting up stables

• Care and manage horses and stables

• Have a routine with the horses and stables and the basic feeding of horses

• Work with a horse in a safe, correct and sympathetic manner

• Classify and Identify different horses

• Understand the stable routine and equipment management

• Identify different parts of the tack and care of it

• Demonstrate the ability to ride a horse at a strong intermediate skill level

• Mount and dismount the correct way

• Have an understanding of the right way to ride

• Have an understanding on different aids

• Assist clients in horseback skills

• Understand the Health, Condition and Exercise of a horse

• Care of the foot and shoeing of a horse

• Identify a sick/lame horse

• Understand how to make a sick/lame horse comfortable

• Understand the equine ailments

• Have a clear understanding on safety for yourself, client and horse at all times

• Load and unload horses into a horsebox

• Transport a horse