Why Choose This Course?

  • This is the only nationally accredited qualification of its type in the UK. It is a Level 5 Diploma, awarded by LANTRA Awards and regulated by OFQUAL
  • It is currently the only qualification that reaches a high enough standard for membership to the Equine Podiatry Association – a professional body for the regulation and support of Equine Podiatrists working in the UK
  • The course is only available through Equine Podiatry Training Ltd, a LANTRA-approved training provider
  • The course is part time and takes 2-3 years to complete
  • It has been running since 2008 and has been continually modified and improved
  • Much of the theory is now delivered online, but there are 5 face-to-face training courses too.
  • The student to teacher ratio is deliberately kept small – students are taught in groups of 8 and there is a large amount of individual tuition
  • Mentored case studies allow students to follow the progression of eight footcare cases for a six-month period under qualified supervision as part of their training
  • Training is delivered by world leaders in a wide range of disciplines including veterinary science, farriery, nutrition and equine behaviour
  • The course content has been assessed and validated by a wide range of independent horse health professionals.
  • A range of modules are taught, all of which are unique and build on each other to provide all of the necessary skills for the job
  • The examination system is independently assessed to ensure it is fair and transparent
  • The depth of tuition and required knowledge is much greater than any other barefoot trimming course available today.  For a course overview, click here.
  • This is the only course that provides in depth training in foot pathologies
  • The main tutors and mentors on the course are some of the most experienced Equine Podiatrists in the UK. The main tutors are also qualified teachers and assessors.
  • The training course is tailored to understanding the particular problems the UK climate brings to the barefoot horse
  • Course material is based on the latest information from world leading researchers and continuously updated
  • During the course, students participate in research studies to help them to better understand how science-based research helps develop the discipline
  • The syllabus exceeds the National Occupational Standard developed by LANTRA to promote a high standard of education for all barefoot trimmers in the UK. It is also well placed to be ready for the new regulatory regime currently being discussed between barefoot trimming groups and government.
  • Students receive a high level of support through a bespoke online learning management system, online discussion with practising EPs and direct contact with their tutors and mentors
  • All students accepted on the course automatically become student members of the Equine Podiatry Association
  • Students are actively encouraged to question and explore the rationale behind everything they are taught, and to seek additional training from wherever they choose
  • Students are required to carry out extensive self study, closely guided by their tutors, to ensure they can attain the high standards (80% pass mark) needed to pass each module.