QQI Level 5 Course Code: 5M3371
Co-ordinator: Thomas Peoples
Contact: thomas.peoples@gretb.ie
Course Outline
This course aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills relating to the equine industry. We aim to provide professional education & training to enable the learner to pursue a career in the equine industry or continue their studies in further or higher education. This course has numerous unique learning opportunities such as presentations & talks by industry leaders from a variety of equestrian disciplines; trips to local events and equine yards, sales and trips to competition and breeding yards, such as the National Stud. Practical learning experiences are a core element of this course. GCC has secured the support of both local and national horse industry personnel who will provide their help and expertise to students.
This course is suitable if you want to achieve academic qualifications before starting work in an area of the horse industry. The practical elements of the course are delivered in local A.I.R.E. approved equestrian centres. Students complete their placement in equestrian facilities in order to provide a blended approach to their learning and in order to fulfil the requirements of the Work Experience module. The theoretical elements of the course are taught both onsite in Galway Community College and at specialist external facilities.
Many additional days are spent in professional equine facilities to observe practices in yards or at national shows. Travel to all classes and events is the responsibility of the student. Some commitment is required outside of timetabled classes.
Modules
Fees
€175 GCC Student Services Fee applies to all learners.
€600 Material Cost
€50 QQI Certification Fee applies to all learners except
- Those in receipt of Back to Education Allowance.
- Medical Card Holders (valid at time of Registration)
Non EU Students are subject to an International Fee.
We advise non-EU citizens living outside Ireland to contact the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service on www.inis.gov.ie to ensure the course you are considering applying for is eligible for a student visa. Non-EU citizens living in Ireland are welcome to apply and require a PPS number (Personal Public Service Number). Non-EU citizens are required to pay a tuition fee set by the Irish government which is currently €3653. Some exemptions apply, for further information, please contact http://www.gretb.ie .
Work Experience
Work experience takes place throughout the academic year. Two days per week students gain practical and supervised experience working with horses and the industry professionals. Some parts of Half terms and Easter vaccination periods are spent on work placement. Yard placements alternate throughout the year to give experience in several disciplines.
Special Features
GCC provides the opportunity each year for learners to apply for our Erasmus program. In the past students have travelled to equine facilities in countries such as Portugal & Norway, where they got invaluable work experience.
Successful students will be given financial bursaries which cover travel, accommodation and living expenses.
Entry Requirements
QQI Level 4, minimum of 17 years of age at the time of registration, Equivalent qualifications from other countries, relevant life experiences, relevant work experiences and mature students.
A basic understanding and experience with horses is essential for student application.
Progression
For information please visit our Progression and Career Guidance pages under Student Supports
Opportunities open to students who did not achieve the desired Leaving Certificate to allow entry to your desired course from the CAO system, you can have the opportunity to achieve up to 390 points in a PLC course and gain access to 3rd Level or for mature students who did not complete a Leaving Certificate to gain access to 3rd Level.
Please Note
Galway Community College reserves the right to make changes to any course, to limit the number of places available or to withdraw a course. No part of this information shall be deemed to form a contract between the college and a student or a third party.