Logo of The Orchard Equine College featuring a stylized horse head with a tree and apples inside.

City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma in Horse Care

Build deeper skills, confidence and industry-level competence in a supportive, professional equine environment.

Our Level 2 Diploma in Horse Care is designed for learners who are ready to take the next step in their equine education. This practical, hands-on qualification prepares young people for real industry roles, greater responsibility and progression into further study.

Make a Referral
A white and gray horse with a halter on its head inside a wooden stable, looking at the camera.

What is the Level 2 Diploma in Horse Care?

The City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma in Horse Care is an intermediate equine qualification that develops practical skills, theoretical knowledge and workplace competence.

Learners work more independently, take on greater responsibility, and develop a solid understanding of the daily demands of a real equestrian working environment.

This course builds on the foundations of Level 1 and prepares learners for employment or further study within the equine industry.

A young girl wearing a helmet riding a black and white pinto horse in an outdoor riding arena during sunset.

Who Is This Course For?

This qualification is ideal for:

  • Young people aged 16+

  • Learners who have completed Level 1 Horse Care (or equivalent experience)

  • Those confident working safely with horses

  • Individuals who enjoy practical work and hands-on learning

  • Learners who want to prepare for work in riding schools, livery yards or equine apprenticeships

  • Students wanting to progress into higher-level qualifications

This course is perfect for young people who want to grow in confidence, responsibility and ability in a supportive, welfare-focused setting.

Riding pathways are optional and not required to complete the qualification.
Learners can choose a riding or non-riding route based on confidence and suitability.

Close-up of a horse saddle pad with an embroidered tree logo and the words 'The Orchard', next to a horse's white and brown coat.

What You Will Learn

Learners develop a deeper understanding of horse care, yard work and equine welfare. Topics typically include:

Horse Health & Behaviour

  • Monitoring and assessing horse health

  • Recognising common illnesses and injuries

  • Understanding behavioural indicators

Feeding & Nutrition

  • Types of feed and feeding systems

  • Feeding plans and rationing

  • Factors affecting dietary needs

Tack & Equipment

  • Fitting and adjusting tack correctly

  • Tack checks and maintenance

  • Basic repairs and equipment care

Stable & Yard Management

  • Industry-standard mucking out

  • Field care and turnout routines

  • Biosecurity and hygiene

  • Daily and weekly yard routines

Employment Skills

  • Following workplace procedures

  • Health & safety awareness

  • Working as part of a yard team

  • Professional behaviour and communication

Learning is delivered through practical sessions, supported theory, worksheets, and real yard responsibilities.

Optional Riding & Pathway’s

We offer optional riding and non-riding pathways, plus specialist routes such as rehabilitation and competition care. These can be added to your programme depending on learner interest and suitability

Riding is not required to complete this qualification.
Learners who wish to follow a riding pathway may do so, but it is completely optional..

A man giving a presentation about horse treatment to a group of three women in a room with large windows and a television screen displaying a slide titled 'Decision to Treat at Home and Monitor'.

Course Structure

The Diploma is delivered through:

  • Weekly structured sessions

  • Guest Speakers & Lectures

  • Practical assessment of skills

  • Written and workbook-based evidence

  • Portfolio building

  • Observations and competency checks

  • Real yard duties and routines

Learners complete various units which contribute to achieving the full City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma.

Young girl riding a white horse in an outdoor riding arena, wearing a helmet and riding gear, under a clear blue sky.

Progression Opportunities

After completing the Level 2 Diploma, learners can progress to:

  • Level 3 Advanced Technical or Vocational Equine Qualifications

  • Equine Apprenticeships

  • Work placements in riding schools, livery yards and equestrian centres

  • Roles such as Assistant Groom, Yard Assistant or Trainee Groom

  • Specialist pathways (coaching, equine therapy, behaviour, rehabilitation etc.)

This qualification provides a strong foundation for those wishing to pursue an equine career.

A young girl wearing a blue shirt, black riding helmet, and black riding pants rides a black and white horse in an outdoor riding arena during daytime. The arena is enclosed with wooden fencing and surrounded by trees and greenery.

Entry Requirements

To enrol on the Level 2 Diploma, learners must:

  • Be 16 years or older

  • Have completed Level 1 Horse Care (or equivalent experience)

  • Be confident handling horses safely

  • Have appropriate clothing and PPE

  • Show willingness to complete both practical and theory elements

  • Learners do not need to ride to complete this course - non-riding pathways are available.

A positive attitude and good attendance are essential.

A brown horse with a black mane is chewing on grass in a green field with trees in the background.

Course Fees

Course fees vary and may depend on learner needs, programme structure and session frequency.

For current pricing information, please contact our College Team.
We can discuss:

  • Course cost

  • Payment plans

  • Clothing/equipment needs

  • Any additional support