Horse and Dog Care - Level 1

What will I study on this course?

During this course, you'll work on the following units:

• safe and effective working practices
• preparing to work in land-based industries
• assist with maintaining the health and well-being of horses and dogs
• assist with feeding and watering horses and dogs
• assist with the preparation and maintenance of accommodation for horses and dogs
• assist with the handling and restraint of horses and dogs
• assist with the exercise of horses and dogs

We know that many people who either have or love horses, also own dogs, and this course will give you the theoretical knowledge and practical skills to undertake the basic care needs of these two popular species.

You'll study different units on this course compared to our level 1 courses, so this course is a great option if you're looking to progress from our introduction to animal care or introduction to equine courses.

You will need:

• 3 or more GCSEs at grade 2 or above or;
• A merit grade or above in a level 1 course in equine or animal care

Existing students would not need the above but should have achieved a level 1 course at CWA

How long is this course?

1 year

When does this course start?

02/09/2026

How many hours / days per week is this course?

Full-time courses at CWA are generally 3 - 4 days per week (though you may be in for an extra day if you are resitting English and / or Maths). The college day is typically longer than a day at school and students will need to plan their individual study in their free time (including individual study hours which are recorded at college in the Learning Resource Centre or other study areas). Work experience will be a key component of your course and most students will complete a minimum of 60 hours per academic year (on top of their college hours), depending on the course they are studying. CWA has a dedicated team of work placement co-ordinators to support you with this.

Age	Cost
16-18	Free*
19+	£600

* Some of our courses may have additional costs to cover trips, unform and equipment. These costs will be confirmed to you at enrolment.

Fee information

Though this course is free for those aged 16-18, there may be additional costs related to the programme, such as additional equipment and uniform, educational trips and work placement costs. Full details will be sent to applicants before enrolment.

Find all the information you need about course fees and financial help below.

Information on Fees and Financial Help

Adult (19+) learners

Depending on your age, course, educational history and personal circumstances, there may be options available for you to receive a course fully-funded by the government. Our fee calculator will help give you an idea on whether you'll be able to have your course fee waived or covered by an Advanced Learner Loan.

Complete our fee calculator

Learners with an active Education, Health & Care Plan

If you are aged 19 - 24 at the start of your course and have an active Education, Health & Care Plan (EHCP), any course up to and including level 3 will be fully-funded by the government. This means you will not have a course fee to pay and any equipment considered essential to complete your course will be provided by the college.

What qualification will I achieve?

City & Guilds Level 1 Certificate in Land-based Studies

How is my course assessed?

This programme is continually assessed by a combination of written tasks, projects and demonstration of competence in a range of practical tasks.