Equestrian Training Programme -Q.Q.I. Level 4

The Equestrian Training Programme is a 2-year full-time vocational training programme that enables the learner to develop the knowledge, skills, and competence in a broad range of equine skills, which will enable the student to work in a variety of equine sectors.  Successful graduates will be awarded a Quality in Qualifications Ireland  QQI level 4 Major Award in Horsemanship 4M3154 via the K.W.E.T.B. (Kildare Wicklow Educational Training Board) 

FAQs

No. You do not need previous experience with horses to do this course but some experience would be an advantage for you.

No. You do not need previous horse-riding experience to do this course however it is an advantage. Please note, part of the QQI major award includes horse riding. At Festina Lente we have a rider weight limit of 12 stone for riders with experience (balanced in walk and trot), and 11 stone for beginner riders.

This is a Two-year full time vocational training programme.

Monday–Thursday 9am–4.30pm and Friday 9am–3.30pm. During the week there will be one early morning start for feeds at 8.00am.

On the Equestrian Training Programme you will learn about: 

  • Handling horses in a safe way
  • Daily stable and yard tasks
  • Caring for horses and feeding of horses
  • How horses behave and why -based on the latest Equitation Science Research
  • The equipment used when working with and riding horses
  • How to work as part of a team and communicate with others
  • The skills necessary to ride competently

The start date for the programme will be in late August.However, there is also  ongoing intake, this means that as places become available during the year you can start.

If you are 16 years of age or older, are physically able for the demands of the course, and are on a disability allowance (D.A.) or possibly other Department of Social Welfare allowance e.g. J.A. you are eligible to apply for the programme.

If you are not on a disability or other allowance but have another learning disability or another health issue, you may still be able to participate.

Please note, part of the major award includes horse riding. Here at Festina Lente we have a rider weight limit of 12 stone for riders with experience (balanced in walk and trot)and 11 stone for beginner riders.

Contact us if you have a question about your eligibility.

Tara Barrett 

Equestrian Training Programme Co-ordinator 

Email: tara.barrett@festinalente.ie  Phone: 087 7387263

Complete the application form found here

Please note that all applicants must have received a tetanus injection. Please ask your GP to complete this form, click here to download Tetanus Vaccination Record for your GP to sign.

If your application is successful, you will be invited to an informal interview with

Tara Barrett, Equestrian Training Programme Co-ordinator

If your interview indicates to us that you are a suitable candidate for the course and a place is available, you will be offered an orientation week. This allows the Coach/co-ordinator to get to know you and gives you a chance to sample the programme and see if you like it. After the orientation week, a place on the programme may be offered.

Assessments take place on an on-going basis. Assessments can be in the form of projects, portfolios or skills demonstrations. There are some written exams but they are accessible for people with literacy needs and support can be provided as appropriate.

If you successfully complete all of the modules you will receive a QQI Level 4 Major Award in Horsemanship. Your keyworker will work with you during your final year to support you with your transition plan whether that is to go on to further training, employment or other. 

If you are already on a disability allowance or another social welfare payment, you will receive a training allowance instead. Your eligibility for disability allowance will not be affected by participating in the programme. Depending on circumstances You may also qualify for a meal allowance or a rent allowance payment. The payment you receive depends on your age and the current payment or benefit that you receive. Funding for this project is made available through KWETB.(Kildare, Wicklow Educational Training Board.

Yes. You take compulsory leave at Christmas, Easter & Summer (total 25 days)

You will need to wear strong shoes or boots and jeans. Tracksuit bottoms or hoodies are not permitted. Clothing requirements are dependent on weather: rain jackets and rain trousers during wet weather, warm clothing during the winter, sun-cream and a hat during the summer. Riding hats, boots and body protectors are available if you do not have riding gear for the orientation week. Once accepted on the Programme, it is compulsory for trainees to wear navy in line with the Festina Lente uniform. No jewellery or earrings/nose rings to be worn.

Festina Lente does not provide accommodation but it may be possible to put you in touch with accommodation options.

Please contact: 

If you are over 16 years of age, are physically able for the demands of the course, and are on a disability allowance (D.A.), you are eligible for the programme. If you are not on a disability allowance but have another learning disability or another health issue, you may still be able to participate.

Contact us if you have a question about your eligibility.

Tara Barrett 

Equestrian Training Programme Co-ordinator 

Email: tara.barrett@festinalente.ie  Phone: 087 7387263