NPA Specialist Racehorse Care SCQF level 5

This National Progression Award (NPA):

  • introduces learners to techniques that are important in the equine sector
  • provides an overview of the horseracing industry with a focus on the requirements for working with horses within the horseracing sector

It develops practical, technical and transferable skills such as racehorse care, rehabilitation and therapy, and develops a working knowledge of the rules and regulations that govern horseracing in the UK.

This qualification is available through colleges and training providers.

NPAs can be taught as a full-time course over one year or as a part-time course over two years.

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: GR22 45 (24 SCQF credit points)

SCQF level: 5

This National Progression Award consists of 4 mandatory units (24 SCQF credit points).

Mandatory units include:

  • Horseracing Regulation and Controlled Substances: An Introduction
  • Horse Rehabilitation and Therapy: An Introduction
  • Racehorse Care: An Introduction
  • Horse Care: Horse Health

See the group award specification (288 KB) for the full list of mandatory units.

Unit search

How to assess

Assessment will be a combination of practical and knowledge assessments under closed- and open-book assessment conditions. See the assessment and evidence requirements for each unit.

Assessment and/or e-assessment support packs are available for this qualification

Deliver this qualification

Why study this qualification

The NPA in Specialist Racehorse Care is designed for a wide range of learners, including:

  • learners who are at school or who have just left school
  • those who are looking to access HN programmes
  • individuals who are seeking national recognition of their achievements

You will develop an understanding of the principles of horseracing regulation and controlled substances as well as gaining an introduction to racehorse-specific injuries and rehabilitation.

You will also develop important practical skills that will allow you to make a valuable contribution to the work of a racing yard.

Access

Entry is at the discretion of the college or training provider. However, if you are thinking of entering the SCQF level 5 award it is recommended that you should have Core Skills at SCQF level 4.

Employment and progression

You could use this level 5 award to progress to:

  • study at SCQF level 6
  • an HNC/HND in Equine Studies or a related area
  • a PDA in Equine Breeding
  • an SVQ in the Horse Care sector
  • employment in the Horse Care sector, perhaps as a racing groom or work rider

Qualification structure

Group award code: GR22 45 (24 SCQF credit points)

SCQF level: 5

This National Progression Award consists of 4 mandatory units (24 SCQF credit points).

Mandatory units include:

  • Horseracing Regulation and Controlled Substances: An Introduction
  • Horse Rehabilitation and Therapy: An Introduction
  • Racehorse Care: An Introduction
  • Horse Care: Horse Health

See the group award specification (288 KB) for the full list of mandatory units.

Unit search