AT present the Kildare and Wicklow Education and Training Board Certificate and Advanced Certificate in Equine Studies courses are based in the Curragh Post Primary School.

In consultation with the industry and subject matter experts, the current programs were developed to provide the learners with a holistic understanding of the needs of the horse, its welfare, safety, current legislation and market trends in the equine industry. The broad knowledge of equine subjects and transferable skills lead to numerous progression routes within the equine industry.

LEVEL 5

The level five certificate in horsemanship offers a chance for progression into the work place, on to level six programmes or into higher education programmes. The structure of the course allows learners who are non-riders to participate. The inclusion of modules on payroll and book keeping allows suitable students the opportunity to progress on to the equine business course offered at NUI Maynooth.

In the past students have progressed to degree courses in equine business, veterinary nursing and equine science. Many learners secure employment with their work placement providers at the end of the course. The course also allows learners the opportunity to work for the British Horse Society (BHS) qualifications and equestrian tourism exams.

LEVEL 6

The level six qualification is developed to allow students to progress in a specialised way whilst maintaining a broad base of learning. It is classed as an advanced certificate and thus fulfils one of the conditions of stamp duty exemption on the transfer of a farm to a son or daughter. It also meets the criteria for schemes or grants that may be available from time to time. Practical training, as part of these courses, is delivered at an AIRE approved training centre one day per week. The students experience industry placement two days per week in selected yards around the area.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

On Friday, April 1st, 2016 the Curragh Post-Primary School is holding an open interview day for students that have applied, or are interested in applying, to their horsemanship level five and six courses. The event will start at 10:00am and should be finished by noon. If you are interested in either of these courses you are welcome to come along.

For further information visit: curraghpps.ie