The new sponsor of Horse & Hound’s NAGS initiative is training provider KEITS, which was established seven years ago to help employers access government funding for staff training.
Today, KEITS is the only government-funded private training provider recognised as a “centre of vocational excellence” (CoVE) in equine studies. KEITS funds modern apprentices, aged 16-25, and offers work-based training in equine, animal care, agricultural and game-keeping businesses.
The equine qualifications available through KEITS are NVQ level 1 horse care, a foundation modern apprenticeship in horse care and an advanced modern apprenticeship in horse care.
Subjects covered range from the basics of mucking out and grooming to cleaning and maintenance of stables, from caring for performance horses to breeding. Students also learn communication and teamwork skills, and undertake emergency first aid courses.
The qualifications are nationally recognised and, as they are work-based, no time is spent at college, allowing employers to keep valuable members of staff. Achievement bonuses are available to both employers and employees.
About NAGS
NAGS is a Horse & Hound initiative, which supports all grooms and students by negotiating special deals with equestrian suppliers. Membership of NAGS is free to all bona fide grooms and students, including students who are studying non-equine qualifications.
Benefits of membership include:
- Horse & Hound subscription at £1 per copy
- £3 discount voucher on a sack of Blue Chip Dynamic
- 10% discount on Splash Equestrian equipment and clothing
- no P& P charges from Equestrian Vision mail order
- eligibility for NAGS-only competitions and offers
If you are interested in becoming a member, write to: NAGS, Room 2018, Kings Reach Tower, Stamford Street, London SE1 9LS (tel: 020 7261 6993), e-mail: nags@ipcmedia.com, or click here to download a membership form in PDF format.
