NPA Horse Care SCQF level 6

The National Progression Award in Horse Care at SCQF level 6 is a practical award that is designed to provide candidates with a formal qualification, often for work they have been doing for some time in riding schools or stables.

The NPA in Horse Care at SCQF level 6 may also provide a bridging programme to HNC/HND Equine Studies for candidates who have successfully completed the NC in Horse Care at SCQF level 5.

The qualification is available through colleges.

Alternative assessment guidance

This subject will not have alternative assessment guidance for session 2023-24. You should refer to the Group Award/Unit specifications for detailed delivery and assessment information. For general support on delivery and assessment see the HNVQ assessment guidance 2023-24.

Qualification structure

Group Award Code: GF4H 46

SCQF level: 6

NPA in Horse Care at SCQF level 4 and 6 (501 KB)

The National Progression Award in Horse Care consists of three mandatory Units at SCQF level 6 and two optional Units at SCQF level 5.

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How to assess

Given the practical content of this qualification, successful delivery of the NPA in Horse Care will require access to a realistic working environment such as a college stable or riding school. Tutors are encouraged to use a variety of practical activities and to emphasise the development of the candidate's own personal qualities and skills.

The horses used must be quiet and used to handling, although all candidates will be made aware that any horse can be unpredictable. The use of personal protective equipment is also highlighted throughout the individual Units.

Some elements of the course may be suitable for e-assessment such as the identification of tools, grooming kit, tack etc.

Deliver this qualification

Why study this qualification

This NPA is aimed school leavers and adult learners with appropriate equine experience. It is also suitable for employees who wish to develop their abilities in the horse industry through continuous professional development. In addition, this NPA should enhance candidate progression to the HNC in Equine Studies.

Access

Entry to award is at the discretion of the delivering centre.

However, for entry to the NPA in Horse Care at SCQF level 6, it is recommended that candidates should have achieved the National Certificate in Horse Care at SCQF level 5 (or an appropriate qualification from another awarding body), or can provide evidence of appropriate experience of working with horses in an educational, voluntary or paid capacity.

Candidates would be expected to have achieved Core Skills at SCQF level 5 in Communication, Working with Others, Problem Solving and Numeracy. The level of ICT required for entry to the NPA in Horse Care at SCQF level 6 is Core Skill ICT at SCQF level 4, because of the nature of the horse care industry and the lesser dependence on ICT than in other industries.

Some candidates may need  to be provided with a Core Skills profile to determine their suitability for undertaking the level of the award.

Employment and progression

Achievement of the NPA in Horse Care at SCQF level 6 should facilitate progression either to further study, eg to the HNC Equine Studies at SCQF level 7, or to employment within the industry, eg as a competition groom.

Qualification structure

Group Award Code: GF4H 46

SCQF level: 6

NPA in Horse Care at SCQF level 4 and 6 (501 KB)

The National Progression Award in Horse Care consists of three mandatory Units at SCQF level 6 and two optional Units at SCQF level 5.

Unit search