We hope this course will be fun, interesting, and challenging, and we're looking forward to meeting you all in September!

The programme incorporates a range of modules which ensure relevance for students who intend to work in any part of the equine industry. In addition, there will be opportunities to develop and enhance ridden equitation skills and take BHS qualifications, enabling graduates to develop specialist areas of interest and facilitate progression within practice. 

You will be encouraged and supported to explore current issues in the industry and are encouraged to investigate particular areas of interest. All modules are closely linked to industry and students are encouraged to support their learning with appropriate work experience - in fact, many of your fellow students are probably employed in industry. 

There is a mandatory work experience in the course, and this will link tightly to your modules. The college also has close links with equine rescue centres, studs, equine therapists and other associated equine-based employers, and we arrange a wide range of visits and guest speakers to give you the maximum breadth of expertise!

Welcome to Duchy Stoke Climsland University Centre, Cornwall College. My name is Michelle Chappell, and I am the Programme Manager for the FdSc Equitation Training and Behaviour programme. In addition, I also programme manage the Animal Health and Management FdSc and BSc (Hons) Applied Animal Health courses. I am very passionate about animal health and welfare with a particular focus on equine and canine species.

Having grown up in the county of Cornwall and attended local schools and colleges to complete my education, I can genuinely advocate studying here in Cornwall. After completing my studies, it led to work both within parts of the UK and abroad, so returning to work in Cornwall has meant returning to my happy place. Situated between Bodmin Moor and Dartmoor and being a short drive away from some amazing beaches, we are surrounded by vibrant natural landscapes in which a variety of wildlife thrive. I am fortunate to be involved in the structure and delivery of courses that encompass my interests and inspire me to continue researching. 

At our campus, I lecture on a diverse range of subjects. These include equine and animal anatomy and physiology, equine and animal behaviour, equine and animal health and disease and various related topics.

As you embark on your academic journey with us, I encourage you to make the most of your time here at the university. Take full advantage of the unique resources available to you, such as the equine science research hub, equine simulator and Qualysis motion capture equipment, equine yard and our links to industry. Institutions such as Mare and Foal Sanctuary, Equine rescue charities and numerous equine related industry providers facilitate incredible opportunities for hands-on learning and observation of the equine species.

Additionally, I encourage you to engage in volunteering activities, as they offer invaluable practical experience and a chance to contribute to welfare efforts. Getting involved with these initiatives can enhance your understanding of the field and connect you with like-minded individuals.

It goes without saying that striking a balance between academic and social life activities is important. Cornwall offers a lively community with plenty of social events and recreational opportunities. Take time to explore and enjoy the local attractions, cultural events and outdoor activities that Cornwall has to offer.

Again, welcome, and I very much hope that by the end of your studies, which have been full of light-bulb moments, you find a completely different understanding of equines and leave with the thirst to develop further and strive to contribute to this fascinating world of nature.

Michelle Chappell | Programme Manager FdSc Equitation Training and Behaviour

It's important for the practical sessions to remember that Stoke Climsland is in a relatively wet area of the country, and that many equine-based practicals must take place outside! We also have a range of equine- and laboratory-based practicals, for which you will need to be prepared. 

Make sure that you have:

• Warm and waterproof coat – no hood / secured hood.

• Yard safe boots (e.g. Wellingtons, jodhpur boots, work boots, riding boots).

• A navy embroidered Polo Shirt – HE Equitation Science for practical sessions and off-site visits (more information on enrolment).

• A scientific calculator, pens and pencils, paper and folders to stay organised.

• A laptop is recommended to support activities in taught sessions, completion of assessments, and independent study.

• We recommend you buy this in advance if you can, so you have everything you need from day one. 

• Riding optional – beige/dark coloured breeches/jodhpurs, long leather riding boots (or short boots with gaiters)

• Current British Standard approved riding hat.

• The current British Standard approved body protector.

• Riding gloves.