Apprenticeships
The Senior Equine Groom Apprenticeship is designed to develop advanced practical skills and in-depth knowledge required to manage horse care to a professional standard across a range of equine environments. Apprentices will build competence in areas such as horse health and welfare, nutrition, grooming, and fitness, alongside developing the ability to monitor condition, recognise early signs of illness or injury, and implement appropriate care plans. The programme also covers yard management, including maintaining facilities, managing resources, and supporting team operations. In addition, apprentices will gain experience in handling and preparing horses for competition, transport, and breeding activities, while adhering to industry regulations and high standards of biosecurity. Emphasis is placed on professionalism, communication, and responsibility, enabling apprentices to take a lead role within a yard and contribute effectively to the success and welfare of the horses in their care.
A certificate of completion from the Institute for Apprenticeships
After completing the Senior Equine Groom Apprenticeship, learners can progress into a range of responsible and skilled roles within the equine industry. Many move into senior or specialist positions such as yard manager, head groom, or competition groom, taking on greater responsibility for horse welfare, staff supervision, and daily operations. There are also opportunities to work within specific disciplines, including dressage, show jumping, eventing, racing, or breeding establishments, where advanced handling and performance preparation skills are highly valued.
For those interested in further development, learners may choose to specialise in areas such as equine nutrition, rehabilitation, or coaching, or progress onto higher-level qualifications in equine management.
Throughout the programme, evidence of progress is gathered to reflect day-to-day competence, with a final End Point assessment involving an observation and professional discussion at the end bringing everything together to confirm the apprentice can perform confidently, independently, and to industry standards.
Suitable employment on or prior to starting the apprenticeship training programme.
An appropriate level of Maths and English (assessed prior to apprenticeship start)
Apprentices without English or maths (at Level 2 for a Level 3 Apprenticeship or Level 1 for a Level 2 Apprenticeship) must achieve this prior to taking the End Point Assessment).
We can support you to achieve the desired level of Maths and English, through functional skills taught sessions which are mandatory to attend as part of your programme (you cannot achieve your apprenticeship without the required level of maths and English).
