Equine Groom Apprenticeship Level 2 (Breeding)

Key Learning Areas

Horse Care and Welfare:• Daily care routines for breeding horses (feeding, grooming, mucking out)• Recognising signs of health and reproductive issues• Handling and restraint techniques specific to breeding horses

Breeding Management:• Understanding the breeding cycle and reproductive anatomy• Assisting with breeding procedures (natural cover, artificial insemination)• Managing stallions, mares, and foals

Foaling and Neonatal Care:• Monitoring pregnant mares and recognising signs of foaling• Assisting with foaling and providing post-natal care• Basic foal health care and handling

Stable Management and Facility Operations:• Maintaining cleanliness and organisation in breeding stables• Tack cleaning and maintenance• Record-keeping for breeding and foaling activities

Health and Safety in Breeding Operations:• Implementing safe working practices around breeding horses• Understanding biosecurity measures• Responding to emergencies and providing basic equine first aid

Upon successful completion of the Equine Groom Apprenticeship (Non-Riding Pathway), apprentices can progress to higher-level qualifications such as the Level 3 Senior Groom Apprenticeship or pursue careers as:
Stud Grooms
Breeding Technicians
Foaling Attendants
Stud Managers

Entry requirements for this apprenticeship include:
Interest in working with horses and equine breeding
Basic understanding of horse care and handling
Willingness to work outdoors and in a physically demanding environment

Free to apprentices. This apprenticeship has a £5,000 funding band. Depending on age some small companies will need to contribute £250 toward the funding; large companies could pay through the apprenticeship levy if they have funds available.

Level 2 Equine Groom Apprenticeship (Breeding) (Pass or Distinction)

The apprenticeship will involve a combination of practical on-the-job training at a breeding farm, supplemented by classroom-based learning and workshops at our Common Leys campus one day per week, term-time only.
Assessment methods may include observations, practical assessments, assignments, and a final portfolio demonstrating competency in equine breeding and foal care.