Horsemanship & Equine Course (Level 5 Certificate)
Course Overview
Applications are now open for September 2025- click here to start your application!
Welcome to our Level 5 Certificate in Horsemanship/Equitation course, where we provide comprehensive training to equip learners with the knowledge and skills essential for a rewarding career in the equine industry.
This accredited program, recognised by QQI, serves as the perfect introduction for young individuals aspiring to pursue a career in equine management or deepen their understanding of handling and caring for horses. Designed to meet industry standards, our course offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, preparing students for employment opportunities and further education in the field, and counts as "the Green Cert" too.
Throughout the curriculum, students delve into various aspects of horsemanship, including riding, breaking, and training horses, as well as the preparation for sale. Emphasis is placed on developing proficiency in horse handling techniques, stable management, and equine health and welfare practices. Moreover, this course encourages students towards Horse Sport Ireland and British Horse Society riding and coaching qualifications.
Join us at Gurteen College and embark on a journey of discovery and growth in the captivating realm of horsemanship. Enrol today and take the first step towards fulfilling your passion for horses and equine excellence.
Course Structure
The Horse/Equitation course subjects equip students with practical skills, theoretical knowledge, and personal development necessary for successful careers in the equine industry.
Course Subjects
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Stable and Yard Routine: Learn essential tasks for maintaining a safe and efficient stable and yard environment, including feeding, grooming, and mucking out, as well as stable management practices like bedding and tack maintenance.
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Young Horse Training Techniques: Explore principles and practices for starting and progressing the education of young horses, covering groundwork, lunging, and early ridden work essential for breeding and training.
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Sport Horse Riding: Enhance riding skills and proficiency in various equestrian disciplines like show jumping, dressage, and eventing through instruction in flatwork, jumping, and competition preparation.
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Anatomy and Physiology: Study the structure and function of the horse's body, including skeletal, muscular, circulatory, respiratory, and digestive systems, to identify signs of illness or injury and promote equine health and well-being.
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Personal Effectiveness: Develop personal skills and attributes vital for success in the equine industry, such as communication, time management, teamwork, and professionalism.
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Work Practice: Gain hands-on experience in a professional equine setting, developing practical skills and insight into daily operations to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts.
Awards
On successful completion, students are awarded the QQI Level 5 Certificate in Horsemanship.
After obtaining the QQI Level 5 Certificate in Horsemanship, graduates have a couple of paths they can pursue:
1. Progress to a Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Agriculture course. The available Level 6 courses at Gurteen College include:
2. Transfer to linked courses at Institutes of Technology through the Higher Education Links Scheme
Duration & Schedule
This full-time course spans one academic year.
Eligibility
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Applicants must be 17 years old or older as of January 1st following entry to Level 5.
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Applicants must undergo an interview and practical riding assessment as part of the application process for the Level 5 Certificate in Equitation.
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Students with an equivalent qualification may apply for entry to the Level 6 program.
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This process also includes an interview and riding assessment.
Next Start Date
The next intake for the course is scheduled for September 2025.
Application Details
Applications are accessible online via the Gurteen College website or directly through the Teagasc website. Applicants are required to submit the following documents:
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Proof of PPS Number (a formal document or card displaying your PPSN)
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Proof of Name and Date of Birth (preferably a Birth Certificate or Passport)
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Driving Licence (front and back) if applicable
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Medical Card (front and back) if applicable
We recommend saving photos of the required documents to your device (laptop or PC) for easy uploading during the application process.
For Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Horsemanship/Equitation - click here to start your application!
Tuition Fees
Gurteen College offers on-site residential accommodation for students who prefer to stay on campus. Residential students are required to ensure they pay the correct amount for accommodation when the first instalment of fees is due.
The costs for Gurteen's courses are all-inclusive, covering meals, printing, workbooks, WiFi, utilities, access to the student kitchen, and use of on-site sporting facilities.
The total cost for the (full-time) Level 5 Certificate in Horsemanship (Equitation) course for the 2024-25 academic year is €5800 for residential students and €1750 for non-residential students. Tuition fees are divided into two instalments, with payments due on specified dates:
Fees for 25/26 are not yet set- once we know though, that information will be here.
Residential - Total Cost €5800
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€3200 due by August 2024
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€2600 due by December 2024
Non-Residential - Total Cost €1750
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€1200 due by August 2024
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€550 due by December 2024
Embark on a transformative educational journey that equips you for a rewarding career in the equine industry. For further details and to request an application pack, please send us a message via our contact form or email us at [email protected]. We look forward to hearing from you!