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iPet Network Level 4 Diploma in Ethical Equine Practice

An Ofqual-regulated Level 4 Diploma in Ethical Equine Practice, designed for those working with horses who want to develop their knowledge and skills through a science-based, welfare-first approach.
GLH 92
TQT 440
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What's included?

  • Monthly 1-1's With Your Tutor
  • Live Teaching Events
  • Peer Groups
  • Study Groups
  • Responsive & Timely Support
  • Entry Into Our Private Community

Become an Ethical Equine Practitioner

This Ofqual-regulated Level 4 Certificate in Ethical Equine Practice is designed for those who want to work with horses in a way that is grounded in science and compassion. You’ll explore equine behaviour, welfare, and training through an evidence-based lens, gaining the skills to make informed, ethical decisions in practice. Whether you’re already involved in equine care or looking to expand your professional pathway, this course provides a solid foundation for responsible, welfare-focused work with horses.
Please note that while the overall course duration allows for adequate study time, all required work must be completed and submitted at least 3 months before the official end date. This is to allow for essential internal and external quality assurance processes to be completed prior to certification.

Qualification Objectives

By the end of this programme, learners will be able to:

  • Understand the natural behaviour patterns of horses and recognise how domestication and management affect welfare.

  • Identify behavioural signals, stress indicators, and ways to support equine wellbeing in practical settings.

  • Demonstrate knowledge of equine anatomy and physiology, recognising signs of health and illness.

  • Explore ethical issues in equine use, training, and sport, applying frameworks such as the Five Freedoms and Five Domains.

  • Trace the evolution and domestication of horses, recognising how their sensory systems and adaptations shape behaviour today.

  • Apply principles of equine management and ethical training, with a foundation in learning theory and welfare science.

  • Analyse the historical and contemporary roles of horses, reflecting on human–equine relationships and suggesting welfare improvements.

Meet the instructor

Irene Perrett 

Irene Perrett. MA, Cert Ed., BHS IV SM.

Irene’s involvement with rescue dogs and horses resonates with her long-held passion to better understand human and more-than-human relations. She has a background in equine education, contributing to the development of equine courses and is a Pony Club AH assessor. Irene works with horses and their guardians to engender an empathetic and educated approach. It was a Romanian rescue dog who sparked her desire to research and study canines, with qualifications in teaching, training, bereavement, animal cruelty and well-being. She gained an Advanced Diploma in Canine Psychology and Behaviour in 2018, an Anthrozoology MA in 2022 and is currently a PhD student at the University of Exeter. She has a particular interest in the well-being and rights of human and non-human animals, and engendering cohesive interspecies relationships. Irene lives with and fosters Romanian rescue dogs and can often be found walking with them over Exmoor.
Patrick Jones - Course author