Equestrian training courses: saddle fitting and repairs

Getting ahead in the equestrian industry means proving that you can offer the complete package.

Employers need people who can fit into a team but show the initiative to work alone, and who can back up equestrian knowledge with practical experience.

Content: a practical training course leading to City & Guilds bridle and saddle-making qualifications, which can be further developed into SMS qualified saddler status. Students attend six intensive training weeks at the centre each year, developing their skills at their home workshop in the two months between each session. The modules cover leatherwork techniques including hand stitching, bridle making and saddle repairs
Venue: the Saddlery Training Centre, Wilts
Duration: 3 years part-time
Cost: £475 per week, plus any materials as required
Entrance ruirements: some basic skills are required
Applications: ongoing
Contacts: tel: 01722 341144, email: info@saddlerytraining.com, www.saddlerytraining.co.uk

Content: this is the only full-time training available in saddlery and hand-sewn leathercraft, including both traditional craft and modern factory-based production methods. The college-based course provides a foundation in bespoke saddlery and harness manufacture, preparing students
for separately accredited diplomas in harness, bridle and saddle-making
required for industry recognition as an SMS master saddler
Duration: 1 year full-time (certificate); 2 years full-time (diploma)
Cost: 19 years and over: £1,291 per year, 16-18 years: free
Entrance requirements: Level 2 vocational qualifications or four grade C-plus GCSEs, including an art or craft subject (or equivalent). Other qualifications or work experience may be considered
Applications: from November to start the following September
Contacts: tel: 08456 122122, email: enquiries@capel.ac.uk, www.capel.ac.uk

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