FARRIERY Ireland was established in 2003 and provides structured training for Irish farriery apprentices and continuing education for practising farriers. Training to become a farrier not only helps to maintain and develop the standard and quality of farriers around Ireland; it also offers graduates a license to travel as the qualification (QQI Level 6) is recognised internationally. The curriculum is constantly changing to keep up with the demands of the industry.

To take part in the course applicants must be 16 years old or over, and they must be employed by a national apprenticeship employer (master) who is approved by SOLAS before they begin the course. The minimum duration of the course is four years and two months. The course is run over seven phases; four phases consist of the apprentice farriers working with their employer and the remaining three phases are spent in the farriery school learning new skills expanding their knowledge and successfully passing all skills demonstrations and theory assessments.

Topics covered include:

  • Anatomy and physiology
  • Conformation and movement
  • Horsemanship and horse welfare
  • Forging skills
  • Shoemaking
  • Horseshoeing
  • Cold and hot fitting
  • Conditions of the leg
  • Conditions of the foot
  • Foot balance
  • Business Studies

    • For more information on courses or becoming a farrier visit www.farrieryireland.ie