Course Aim
This two-year course provides excellent preparation for those wishing to pursue a career in the equine industry or progress to higher education. The course is taught using state-of-the-art practical facilities at Enniskillen Campus and at Necarne Castle (near Irvinestown).
Course content
The main areas of study are:
- Equitation or racing
- Horse Husbandry, competition grooming and stable skills
- Breeding and stud practices
- Business Management
- Anatomy and physiology
Work placement
National Diploma students complete ten weeks approved work experience within the two-year course. Typically students work in a range of yards depending on their area of interest, such as breeding, racing, eventing, show jumping and dressage.
The Campus has a wide range of placements available within the equine industry during which students are encouraged to increase their skill base and broaden their horizons.
Career destinations
Students with a National Diploma are ideally suited to find employment of a practical nature in a wide range of equine businesses.
Examples of careers include:
- managing own business, breaking and schooling horses and/or livery
- work riders in racing yards
- stud grooms
- competition grooms
- sales representatives
Graduate's View: Amanda Dougherty
I’ve just completed my National Diploma courses. I enjoyed the practical work on the yards and learned a lot about horse management and care. I spent my work placement at a riding school and show jumping yard where I got the opportunity to groom horses for the National Balmoral Championships. I was awarded two prizes for my achievements during first year. I really enjoyed the course.
What Next?
Want to talk to someone about this course?
- Contact the Course Manager listed in the fact file located in the individual course information page.
Want to apply to CAFRE for a place on this course?
- Print out this application form (PDF 78 KB) and send it to us.
- We'll be in touch with you within a week.
