NPA Horse Care SCQF level 4

This National Progression Award (NPA) at SCQF level 4 is an introductory qualification in horse care for people who are interested in gaining initial experience and/or a formal qualification. The Award will provide candidates with primary horse care skills and relevant knowledge and understanding. It will also help to develop successful and confident learners with transferable skills

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: GF4J 44

SCQF level 4

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

This National Progression Award in Horse Care consists of four mandatory Units at SCQF level 4.

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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 content of this award reflects the need for the basic skills required at this level, the emphasis being on the safety elements of handling horses. Candidates will only be required to assist and to work under supervision.

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.

Deliver this qualification

Why study this qualification

This NPA is aimed at school pupils, school leavers and adult learners with little or no equestrian experience. It is also suitable for employees who wish to develop their abilities in the horse industry through continuous professional development.

Many riding establishments engage people who help them on a voluntary basis but who do not gain any formal qualification for the work carried out. The NPA in Horse Care at SCQF level 4 will give these volunteers an introductory qualification that will enable them to assist safely with quiet horses and enhance their prospects of gaining access to further education, or their opportunities for part-time or full-time employment.

The NPA at SCQF level 4 is also suitable as a short course for school pupils on work experience who have a keen interest in horses.

Access

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

There are no specific, formal entry requirements for the NPA in Horse Care at SCQF level 4, however given the practical nature and environment of this course, it will be beneficial if candidates can demonstrate an interest in working with horses.

For candidates who have recently left school, centres may ask for relevant Standard Grades at General level as a condition of entry, though no formal entry requirements may be required of adult returners. Centres should check whether potential candidates are likely to cope with the demands of the award and reference to school attainment or appropriate life or work experience may provide evidence.

Employment and progression

All Units in the NPA in Horse Care at SCQF level 4 facilitate progression to the level 5 National Certificate in Horse Care and have been designed to correspond directly to some of the mandatory Units in the level 5 Award. Units included in the SCQF level 4 award have been chosen to develop initial skills which are important for introducing the important safety aspects of working with horses.

Candidates may be able to progress to higher level qualifications within a college such as the National Progression Award in Horse Care at SCQF level 6 and then to the HNC in Equine Studies.

Qualification structure

Group Award Code: GF4J 44

SCQF level 4

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

This National Progression Award in Horse Care consists of four mandatory Units at SCQF level 4.

Unit search