ASSURED CERTIFICATE IN BRIDLE & BIT FITTING COURSE (ACBF)
January 2027 Intake (Cohort 6)
City & Guilds Assured Certificate in Bridle and Bit Fitting (A11G-03)
Take the next step towards becoming a professionally qualified bridle and bit fitter with The Society of Master Saddlers.
This part-time comprehensive Bridle and Bit Fitting course combines flexible online learning with practical, hands-on training. It has been developed for experienced horse people who want to gain the specialist knowledge, practical skills and professional recognition required to work as a bridle and bit fitter.
Successful completion of the course and its assessments leads to the City and Guilds Assured Certificate in Bridle and Bit Fitting, qualified by The Society of Master Saddlers.
Before enrolling, please read the full course information and The Society of Master Saddlers' Course Booking Terms and Conditions.
VIEW THE FULL COURSE INFORMATION
COURSE DETAILS
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Course begins - 4th January 2027 |
Study format - Part-time hybrid learning, combining online study with in-person practical training in the UK |
|---|---|
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Course Duration - Approximately 18 months
|
Stage 2 practical training - 23-25 August 2027 |
|
Course Fee - £2,840 including VAT |
Stage 3 practical training and assessment - Three days in February 2028 |
WHAT'S INCLUDED?
The course fee includes:
- access to all required online learning modules;
- five days of practical training across Stages 2 and 3;
- support and guidance from the course team;
- online quizzes and written assignments;
- the first attempt at the City & Guilds assessment;
- City & Guilds certification following successful completion; and
- Trainee Bridle Fitter membership of The Society of Master Saddlers for 1 year.
Accommodation and travel are not included. Any required resits or reassessments will incur an additional charge. Admission to membership is subject to meeting the Trainee Bridle Fitter membership criteria.
HOW THE COURSE WORKS
The course is delivered across three progressive stages.
Online theory modules are made available for specified periods. Learners can work through the learning materials flexibly during each module but must complete all required activities and assessments by the published deadlines.
Learner progress is supported and monitored through online quizzes, written assignments and practical activities. Learners must be able to create and submit work in Word (.docx) or PDF (.pdf) format and record and upload video evidence when required.
Attendance at both practical training modules is compulsory.
Full details of the course content, delivery and assessments can be found on the main Assured Certificate in Bridle and Bit Fitting course information page.
VIEW THE FULL COURSE INFORMATION
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Applicants must have suitable prior experience handling and working with horse.
The course is particularly suitable for:
- experience horse owners and equestrians;
- saddlers and saddlery apprentices;
- saddle fitters;
- equine professionals;
- veterinary and allied veterinary professionals; and
- those wishing to establish a professional bridle and bit fitting service.
Learners must have regular access to suitable horses, bridles, bits and appropriate facilities to complete the required practical activities and video submissions.
If you are unsure whether your experience or access to horses and equipment is suitable, please contact the training team before enrolling.
QUALIFICATION AND PROFESSIONAL REGISTRATION
After successfully completing the course and all required assessments, you will be awarded the:
City & Guilds Assured Certificate in Bridle and Bit Fitting (A11G-03)(qualified by The Society of Master Saddlers).
Successful learners will be eligible to apply to upgrade their Society membership to Registered Qualified Bridle Fitter (SMS RQBF), subject to meeting the applicable membership requirements and paying the annual membership subscription.
BEFORE YOU ENROL
By enrolling, you are committing to:
- completing approximately 18 months of structured study;
- working through the online modules within the periods specified;
- meeting all published coursework and assessment deadlines;
- attending both compulsory practice modules in the UK;
- having access to suitable horses, bridles and bits for practical work and video submissions;
- submitting written work and video evidence electronically; and
- reading and accepting The Society of Master Saddlers Course Booking Terms and Conditions.
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
Eligible learners may apply for The Society of Master Saddlers Loriners Bursary, which can provide up to £500 towards the cost of the course.
Bursary applications are considered separately and an application does not guarantee an award. Please check the eligibility requirements and applicable application deadline before enrolling.
FIND OUT ABOUT THE LORINERS BURSARY
READY TO ENROL?
Before booking your place, please make sure you have read:
- the full ACBF course information;
- the Course Booking Terms and Conditions;
- the Course Booking FAQs;
- the practical dates and compulsory attendance requirements; and
- the information about what is and is not included in the course fee.
If you have any questions before enrolling, please contact the training team:
INTRODUCTION TO SADDLE FITTING COURSE
Friday 19th February 2027
Develop your understanding of how saddle fit can influence the welfare, comfort and performance of the ridden horse.
This introductory course is suitable for:
- horse owners and riders who want to understand more about saddle fit;
- equine and allied professionals wishing to complement their existing knowledge;
- saddlers and others working within the saddlery trade; and
- anyone considering progressing towards professional training as a saddle fitter.
The course combines approximately six hours of flexible online theory with a compulsory one-day practical module at Moulton College, Northampton.
READ THE FULL COURSE INFORMATION
Course Details
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Course format - Online theory followed by one day of practical training |
Online learning - Approximately six hours of on-demand theory webinars and supporting learning |
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Course Cost - £660 including VAT |
Practical module - Saturday 1 August 2026 |
|
Member Discount - 10% |
Venue - Moulton College, Northampton |
The discounted member fee will become available after you have logged in and your current Society membership has been confirmed.
What You’ll Learn
The online theory provides an introduction to saddles and professional saddle fitting. You will:
- learn how saddles are constructed;
- identify common faults in saddle materials and construction;
- consider how the horse’s conformation can influence saddle selection;
- understand why saddle tree width and design are fundamental to fit;
- explore how the rider’s requirements and influence can affect saddle fit; and
- begin to understand the Society’s nine-point approach to assessing saddle fit, used by Society of Master Saddlers Qualified Saddle Fitters around the world.
During the practical module, you will have the opportunity to apply your online learning and explore:
- static and dynamic saddle fit;
tree width and saddle design;
- relevant aspects of the horse’s conformation;
- templating;
rider requirements and influence; and
- the relationship between the horse, saddle and rider.
The online theory must be completed before attending the practical module.
Why Take This Course?
The course will help you to:
- better understand the work of a professional saddle fitter;
- make more informed observations about saddle fit;
- complement your existing work as an equine or allied professional;
- or
explore saddle fitting before committing to further professional training.
This is an introductory educational course. Completion does not qualify you to practise or describe yourself as a Society of Master Saddlers Qualified Saddle Fitter.
Progressing to the Qualified Saddle Fitter Pathway
Successful completion of the Introduction to Saddle Fitting Course, or evidence of recognised equivalent prior learning, is required before progressing to the Society’s Qualified Saddle Fitter training pathway.
Applicants must also meet the other entry requirements applicable to the Qualified Saddle Fitter pathway. Completion of this course does not automatically guarantee admission.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE QUALIFIED SADDLE FITTER PATHWAY
Overseas Theory-Only Option
Learners who are unable to travel to the UK may enrol on the separate Introduction to Saddle Fitting – Theory Only course.
The theory-only option does not include the practical module and does not constitute completion of the full Introduction to Saddle Fitting Course. Learners wishing to progress to the Qualified Saddle Fitter pathway will need to provide evidence of their learning and meet the applicable entry and practical requirements.
VIEW THE OVERSEAS THEORY-ONLY COURSE
Before You Enrol
By enrolling on the full course, you are committing to:
- completing the online theory before the practical module;
- attending the compulsory practical module at Moulton College;
- arranging and paying for your own travel and accommodation, where required; and
- reading and accepting The Society of Master Saddlers’ Course Booking Terms and Conditions.
Ready to Enrol?
Before booking, please make sure you have read:
- the full course information;
- the Course Booking Terms and Conditions;
- the practical dates and compulsory attendance requirements; and
- the Course Booking FAQs.
If you have any questions, please contact: training@mastersaddlers.co.uk
SADDLE FITTING PRACTICAL APPLICATION COURSE
6th - 7th April 2027
Refine your practical saddle fitting skills and build your confidence under the guidance of experienced Society of Master Saddlers lecturers.
This optional two-day practical course is intended for learners who have completed the Society's Qualified Saddle Fitters training Course and would benefit from further supervised practice before undertaking their saddle fitting assessment.
Places are limited to allow learners to receive focused tuition, practical experience and constructive feedback.
READ THE FULL COURSE INFORMATION
Course Details
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Course Dates - 6th & 7th April 2027 |
Venue - Moulton College, Northampton |
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Course Duration - Two days |
In-person practical training |
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Course Cost - £825 including VAT |
Availability - Places are limited and subject to confirmation of eligibility |
What You'll Practice
During the course, you will revisit and develop your skills in:
- assessing static saddle fit;
- assessing dynamic saddle fit;
- completing full saddle fittings from start to finish;
- taking and interpreting templates;
- assessing and changing interchangeable gullet bars;
- working with saddles from different manufacturers;
- selecting and evaluating girthing arrangements;
- using appropriate shimming protocols to inform saddle adjustments or alterations;
- considering the influence and requirements of the rider; and
- communicating observations and professional recommendations.
Practical activities may vary according to the horses, riders and saddles available during the course.
Eligibility
This course is intended for learners who have completed the Society’s Qualified Saddle Fitters Training Course.
Places are not available through open self-enrolment. All prospective learners must complete the eligibility form and receive confirmation from the training team before booking.
Assessment Readiness
This course provides additional supervised practical experience but is not an assessment and does not guarantee that a learner is ready to undertake the City & Guilds Assured Certificate in Saddle Fitting assessment.
Learners who are due to undertake their assessment immediately after the course may be advised not to proceed if their performance during the course indicates that they have not yet reached the required standard.
This advice is intended to help learners avoid attempting the assessment before they are adequately prepared.
What Is Included?
The course fee includes:
- two days of practical training;
- tuition and guidance from experienced Society lecturers;
- opportunities to complete practical saddle-fitting activities;
- feedback on your performance and areas for further development; and
- use of the horses, saddles and relevant equipment provided for the course.
Travel and accommodation are not included.
Before You Apply
Please make sure that you have:
- completed the Society’s Qualified Saddle Fitters Training Course;
- read the full Practical Application Course information;
- checked the course dates and venue;
- read the Course Booking Terms and Conditions;
- considered whether you require travel or accommodation; and
- completed the eligibility form.
Ready to Apply?
Because this course is not open to general enrolment, your eligibility must be confirmed before you can book a place.
Please complete the short eligibility form. The training team will review your submission and contact you about your eligibility, availability and booking arrangements.
Course fee: £795
If you have any questions, please contact: training@mastersaddlers.co.uk
BRIDLE FIT4WELFARE
A Practical Bridle & Bit Fit Education Day
Sunday 1st August 2027
Develop your understanding of how bridle and bit fit can influence the horse's comfort, communication, movement and welfare.
This one-day, welfare-focused learning experience is suitable for horse owners, riders, veterinary surgeons, allied veterinary and equine professionals, coaches and trainers.
Combining essential theory with practical demonstrations and activities, the day will help you understand the principles of good fit, recognise common concerns and know when specialist support should be sought.
No previous bridle-fitting training is required, and there are no qualifications or assessments.
READ THE FULL COURSE INFORMATION
Course At A Glance
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Date - Sunday 2nd August 2027 |
Venue - Moulton Equestrian Centre, Moulton College, Northampton |
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Duration - One day, providing more than six hours of learning |
Certificate - Certificate of Attendance/CPD certificates awarded |
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Course Fee - £260 including VAT |
Member Discount - 10% |
Who Is The Day Suitable For?
The day is suitable for:
- horse owners and riders;
- veterinary surgeons;
- veterinary physiotherapists and other equine therapists;
- equine dental technicains;
- saddle fitters and farriers;
- coaches and trainers;
- equine bodyworkers; and;
- other professionals working with horses and riders.
For owners and riders, the day provides practical knowledge to help you recognise common concerns, carry out routine equipment checks and have more informed conversations with fitters and other professionals.
For veterinary and allied professionals, the day provides valuable context when considering equipment as part of the wider clinical, therapeutic or performance picture.
Benefits for Veterinary and Allied Professionals
Bridle and bit fit may be relevant when considering a horse presenting with discomfort, altered movement, changes in ridden behaviour, resistance or performance concerns.
The day will help veterinary and allied professionals to:
- recognise common bridle, noseband and bit fitting concerns;
- understand the anatomical structures that may be affected by fit;
- consider equipment as part of the wider clinical, therapeutic or performance picture;
- ask more informed questions when discussing the horse with an owner or rider;
- communicate observations clearly within the multidisciplinary team;
- understand the role and scope of a professional bridle and bit fitter; and
- recognise when referral to an appropriately qualified fitter may be beneficial.
What You’ll Learn
The day combines accessible theory with practical demonstrations and activities, helping you understand what good bridle and bit fit looks like, recognise common concerns and know when specialist advice should be sought.
Essential Theory
You will explore:
- how bridle and bit fit may influence comfort, communication, posture and movement;
- key anatomical structures relevant to bridle and bit fit;
- the relationship between fit, function and equine welfare; and
- the importance of considering the horse, equipment and rider together.
Practical Modules
Through practical demonstrations and activities, you will learn how to:
- recognise the principles of appropriate bridle, noseband and bit fit;
- identify common fitting concerns and signs that a horse may be uncomfortable;
- consider the position and adjustment of bridle components;
- understand how the horse’s mouth, bit and bridle interact;
- identify common faults, wear and safety concerns;
- carry out routine equipment checks; and
- recognise when specialist assessment, repair or replacement may be required.
Certificate and Professional Development
Participants will receive a Certificate of Attendance confirming more than six hours of learning.
The certificate may be used as evidence of continuing professional development where applicable. Participants are responsible for confirming whether the day meets the CPD requirements of their employer, membership organisation or professional regulator.
Important Information
BRIDLE FIT4WELFARE is an educational awareness and professional development day.
Attendance does not qualify participants to practise or describe themselves as a Society of Master Saddlers Qualified or Registered Qualified Bridle Fitter.
The course does not train participants to diagnose equipment-related conditions, prescribe equipment or undertake professional bridle and bit fittings. It is designed to strengthen awareness, communication and appropriate referral within each participant’s existing knowledge and professional scope.
The day does not replace an individual bridle and bit fitting assessment by an appropriately qualified professional.
Before You Enrol
Please make sure that you have:
- read the full course information;
- checked the date and venue;
- read the Course Booking Terms and Conditions;
- considered your travel and accommodation requirements; and
- understood the educational scope of the day.
Ready to Enrol?
Current Society members should log in to access the discounted member rate.
If you have any questions before enrolling, please contact: training@mastersaddlers.co.uk
ASSURED CERTIFICATE IN BRIDLE & BIT FITTING COURSE - August 2026
Course Description
This comprehensive Bridle and Bit Fitting course is open to all wanting to become a Qualified Bridle Fitter and leads to the City and Guilds Assured Certificate in Bridle Fitting including Measuring and Bitting (Qualified by The Society of Master Saddlers).
Delivered over three stages through a mixture of theory and hands-on practical modules, it takes approximately 18 months to complete. The theory modules are accessed via our online learning platform and are open for a limited period of time during which the learner can work through them at their own pace.
Learner progress is tracked throughout the course by means of online quizzes and written assignments designed to consolidate understanding and support continued development. Learners must be able to save and submit coursework as Word (.docx) or PDF (.pdf) files.
The compulsory practical modules are delivered in the UK at the end of Stages 2 and 3. After successful completion of all modules, the learner will be eligible for assessment, which comprises of five units covering all aspects of bridle and bit fitting. This includes a written paper, submitted videos, and in-person practical assessments, all forming part of the City & Guilds Assured qualification.
Once you have passed all assessment units, the learner will be awarded the City & Guilds Assured Certificate in Bridle Fitting, including Measuring and Bitting (A11G-03) (Qualified by The Society of Master Saddlers).
All course fees, assessments and trainee membership of The Society of Master Saddlers are included within the course fees (VAT included)*
All course bookings are subject to The Society of Master Saddlers Booking Terms and Conditions.
Course Overview
Stage One - Theory only
-
Head anatomy in relation to bridle fit.
-
Evolution of the bit and bridle.
-
Role of the bridle fitter and working within a multidisciplinary team to maximise welfare and performance.
Stage Two - Theory & 2 Day Practical (to be held in Mar '27)
-
Building on knowledge learnt in Stage 1.
-
Mouth anatomy for successful bit fitting.
-
Discover how optimal bridle fit impacts gait.
-
Learn integral biosecurity protocols.
-
Record keeping for building your business.
-
Specialist lectures from Allied Professionals.
Stage Three - Theory and 3 Day Practical (to be held in Feb '28)
-
Building on knowledge from Stages 1 & 2.
-
Double bridle fitting and problem-solving common issues.
-
Measuring bridles for best fit.
-
Common accessories used with bridles.
-
Assess anatomical and specialist bridles and their aims.
-
Establishing a Bridle Fitting Business including marketing.
Member Benefits & Becoming a Society of Master Saddlers Registered Qualified Bridle and Bit Fitter (SMS RQBF)
Member Benefits include:
-
Use of the relevant Society Logo to show you are a member and have the support and backing of an independent association.
-
Listing on the Society website - www.mastersaddlers.co.uk
-
Discounted fees for educational courses and modules.
-
Support and advice from our Liaison Officer, CEO & Wellbeing Committee.
-
Up to date industry and Society news.
-
Access to our ‘member only’ Facebook group
As part of this course you will benefit from Trainee membership with The Society of Master Saddlers. Upon successful completion of the course and assessment you will be eligible to upgrade your membership to Society of Master Saddlers Registered Qualified Bridle Fitter (SMS RQBF).
Please note that the upgrade to Qualified Bridle Fitter status will incur an annual membership fee, charged pro rata from the date of qualification.
*Only the first assessment is included in the initial fee. Any additional assessments will require an extra charge. Accommodation not included.
ASSURED CERTIFICATE IN BRIDLE FITTING COURSE - AUGUST 2025
*** ENROLMENT CLOSED. TO ENROL ON OUR NEXT ACBF COURSE CLICK HERE ***
Course Description
This comprehensive Bridle and Bit Fitting course is open to all wanting to become a Qualified Bridle Fitter and leads to the
Assured Certificate in Bridle Fitting including Measuring and Bitting (Qualified by The Society of Master Saddlers).
Delivered over three stages through a mixture of theory and hands-on practical modules, it takes approximately 18 months to complete. The theory modules are accessed via our online learning platform and are open for a limited period of time during which the learner can work through them at their own pace. The compulsory practical modules are delivered in the UK at the end of Stages 2 and 3.
After successful completion of all modules, the learner will be eligible for assessment which comprises of five units covering all asppects of bridle and bit fitting. This is in the form of a written paper, submitted videos, and in-person practical assessments. Once you have passed all assessment units, you will be awarded the
Assured Certificate in Bridle Fitting, including Measuring and Bitting (A11G-03) (Qualified by The Society of Master Saddlers).
All course fees, assessments and trainee membership of The Society of Master Saddlers are included within the course fees (VAT included)*
All course bookings are subject to The Society of Master Saddlers Booking Terms and Conditions.
Course Overview
Stage One - Theory only
-
Head anatomy in relation to bridle fit.
-
Evolution of the bit and bridle.
-
Role of the bridle fitter and working within a multidisciplinary team to maximise welfare and performance.
Stage Two - Theory & 2 Day Practical (to be held in March '26)
-
Building on knowledge learnt in Stage 1.
-
Mouth anatomy for successful bit fitting.
-
Discover how optimal bridle fit impacts gait.
-
Learn integral biosecurity protocols.
-
Record keeping for building your business.
-
Specialist lectures from Allied Professionals.
Stage Three - Theory and 3 Day Practical (to be held in February '27)
-
Building on knowledge from Stages 1 & 2.
-
Double bridle fitting and problem-solving common issues.
-
Measuring bridles for best fit.
-
Common accessories used with bridles.
-
Assess anatomical and specialist bridles and their aims.
-
Establishing a Bridle Fitting Business including marketing.
Member Benefits & Becoming a Society of Master Saddlers Registered Qualified Bridle Fitter (SMS RQBF)
Member Benefits include:
-
Use of the relevant Society of Master Saddlers Logo to show you are a member and have the support and backing of an independent association.
-
Listing on The Society of Master Saddlers website.
-
Discounted fees for educational courses and modules.
-
Support and advice from our Liaison Officer, CEO & Wellbeing Committee.
-
Up to date industry and Society news.
-
Access to our ‘member only’ Facebook group
As part of this course you will benefit from Trainee membership within The Society of Master Saddlers. Upon successful completion of the course and assessment you will be eligible to upgrade your membership to a Society of Master Saddlers Registered Qualified Bridle Fitter (SMS RQBF).
*Only the first assessment is included in the initial fee. Any additional assessments will require an extra charge. Accommodation not included.
QUALIFIED SADDLE FITTER TRAINING COURSE - OCT 2026
Qualification
Assured Certificate in Saddle Fitting (Qualified by The Society of Master Saddlers)
Duration
18 months - 3 years.
Study Mode
Self-paced, Hybrid. You must complete the theory which opens on the 1st March 2025 and attend the Practical Dates of 27th - 29th October 2026 at Moulton College in the UK as part of this course.
Nb. Please note that the praactical assessment is not part of the course. If you wish to be considered for assessment please contact our Training Administrator at training@mastersaddlers.co.uk.
Course Overview
Open to those who have completed the Introduction to Saddle Fitting or can evidence recognised prior learning in an equivalent course.
This course includes theory and practical training to provide you with all the skills necessary to become a successful saddle fitter.
Learn effective evaluation of condition and conformation ready to assess the horses back and take templates prior to saddle fit.
Discuss how adjusting saddles can create optimal fit and evaluate the fit of saddles using the SMS Gold Standard 15-point procedure and put this into practise throughout the practical days attendance.
Within this qualification you must also complete an assessment in Saddle Flocking - This unit is provided by our expert external providers.
Course Cost
2026 Non Member Rate = £3655
2026 Member Rate* = £3185
*will be available once you have logged in and confirmed as a member
Entry Requirements
You need to have experience of working around horses.
Ideally you will have completed The Society of Master Saddlers INTRODUCTION TO SADDLE FITTING COURSE or Equivalent.
All course bookings are subject to The Society of Master Saddlers Booking Terms and Conditions.
ASSURED CERTIFICATE IN BRIDLE FITTING COURSE - JANUARY 2026 (Enrolment Closed)
Course Description
This comprehensive Bridle and Bit Fitting course is open to all wanting to become a Qualified Bridle Fitter and leads to the City and Guilds Assured Certificate in Bridle Fitting including Measuring and Bitting (Qualified by The Society of Master Saddlers).
Delivered over three stages through a mixture of theory and hands-on practical modules, it takes approximately 18 months to complete. The theory modules are accessed via our online learning platform and are open for a limited period of time during which the learner can work through them at their own pace.
Learner progress is tracked throughout the course by means of online quizzes and written assignments designed to consolidate understanding and support continued development. Learners must be able to save and submit coursework as Word (.docx) or PDF (.pdf) files.
The compulsory practical modules are delivered in the UK at the end of Stages 2 and 3. After successful completion of all modules, the learner will be eligible for assessment, which comprises of five units covering all aspects of bridle and bit fitting. This includes a written paper, submitted videos, and in-person practical assessments, all forming part of the City & Guilds Assured qualification.
Once you have passed all assessment units, the learner will be awarded the City & Guilds Assured Certificate in Bridle Fitting, including Measuring and Bitting (A11G-03) (Qualified by The Society of Master Saddlers).
All course fees, assessments and trainee membership of The Society of Master Saddlers are included within the course fees (VAT included)*
All course bookings are subject to The Society of Master Saddlers Booking Terms and Conditions.
Course Overview
Stage One - Theory only
-
Head anatomy in relation to bridle fit.
-
Evolution of the bit and bridle.
-
Role of the bridle fitter and working within a multidisciplinary team to maximise welfare and performance.
Stage Two - Theory & 3 Day Practical (to be held in Aug '26)
-
Building on knowledge learnt in Stage 1.
-
Mouth anatomy for successful bit fitting.
-
Discover how optimal bridle fit impacts gait.
-
Learn integral biosecurity protocols.
-
Record keeping for building your business.
-
Specialist lectures from Allied Professionals.
Stage Three - Theory and 2 Day Practical (to be held in May '27)
-
Building on knowledge from Stages 1 & 2.
-
Double bridle fitting and problem-solving common issues.
-
Measuring bridles for best fit.
-
Common accessories used with bridles.
-
Assess anatomical and specialist bridles and their aims.
-
Establishing a Bridle Fitting Business including marketing.
Member Benefits & Becoming a Society of Master Saddlers Registered Qualified Bridle Fitter (SMS RQBF)
Member Benefits include:
-
Use of the relevant Society Logo to show you are a member and have the support and backing of an independent association.
-
Listing on the Society website - www.mastersaddlers.co.uk
-
Discounted fees for educational courses and modules.
-
Support and advice from our Liaison Officer, CEO & Wellbeing Committee.
-
Up to date industry and Society news.
-
Access to our ‘member only’ Facebook group
As part of this course you will benefit from Trainee membership with The Society of Master Saddlers. Upon successful completion of the course and assessment you will be eligible to upgrade your membership to Society of Master Saddlers Registered Qualified Bridle Fitter (SMS RQBF).
Please note that the upgrade to Qualified Bridle Fitter status will incur an annual membership fee, charged pro rata from the date of qualification.
*Only the first assessment is included in the initial fee. Any additional assessments will require an extra charge. Accommodation not included.
INTRODUCTION TO SADDLE FITTING - OVERSEAS THEORY-ONLY COURSE
Develop your understanding of saddle fit through flexible online learning wherever you are based.
This theory-only course is available to non-UK residents only and is designed for those who would like to learn more about the principles of saddle fitting but are unable to attend the practical module in the UK.
If you are a UK resident, or wish to complete the full Introduction to Saddle Fitting Course, please view the full course information and enrolment page.
VIEW THE FULL INTRODUCTION TO SADDLE FITTING COURSE
Course Details
|
Eligibility - Non-UK residents only |
Study format and arrangements - Flexible, self-paced online theory learning completed within the access period specified |
|---|---|
|
Course duration - Approximately six hours of on-demand webinars. |
Practical module - Not included |
|
Course cost - £210 |
Member discount - 10% |
The discounted member fee will become available after you have logged in and your current Society membership has been confirmed.
What You'll Learn
The course provides an introduction to saddles and the principles of professional saddle fitting. You will:
- learn how saddles are constructed;
- identify common faults in saddle materials and construction;
- consider how the horse’s conformation can influence saddle selection;
- understand why saddle tree width and design are fundamental to fit;
- explore how the rider’s requirements and influence can affect saddle fit; and
- begin to understand the Society’s nine-point approach to assessing saddle fit, used by Society of Master Saddlers Qualified Saddle Fitters around the world.
The theory is delivered through the Society's Virtual Learning Environment using recorded webinars and supporting learning materials.
Important Information
This course contains the online theory element only and does not include practical training.
Completion of the overseas theory-only course does not constitute completion of the full Introduction to Saddle Fitting Course. It does not qualify a learner to practise or describe themselves as a Society of Master Saddlers Qualified Saddle Fitter.
Successful completion of the full Introduction to Saddle Fitting Course, or evidence of recognised equivalent prior learning, is required before progressing to the Society's Qualified Saddle Fitter training pathway.
Overseas learners who complete the troy-only course and subsequently wish to apply for the Qualified Saddle Fitter pathway will be required to provide evidence of their learning and meet the entry and practical requirements applicable at that time.
Ready to Enrol?
Before enrolling, please make sure that you have read:
- the full Introduction to Saddle Fitting course information;
- the Course Booking Terms and Conditions;
- the Course Booking FAQs;
- the eligibility requirement confirming that this option is available to non-UK residents only; and
- the information explaining that this is a theory-only course and does not include the UK practical module.
If you have any questions, please contact: training@mastersaddlers.co.uk
Current Overseas Society Members
If you are a current overseas member of The Society of Master Saddlers, please log in to access the discounted member fee.
The
Trainee Saddle Fitter Bridging Scheme
is part one of the
Trainee Saddle Fitter Support Scheme.
The Bridging Scheme is designed for Society of Master Saddlers Trainee members who have completed the Introductory Saddle Fitting course and are looking to progress to the Qualified Saddle Fitting Training course.
A free scheme currently under development, it provides additional learning material and support outside of course attendance. Future updates will include case studies and Q&A sessions with leading saddle fitting lecturers to help you progress with your saddle fitting journey.
Want To Sign Up To The Trainee Saddle Fitters Guidance Scheme But Not Sure If You're Eligible?
Because this scheme isn't open for everybody, we must check your eligibility first. If you would like us to check, please click HERE and complete the short form.
The
Trainee Saddle Fitter Guidance Scheme
is part two of the
Trainee Saddle Fitter Support Scheme.
The Guidance Scheme is to support Trainees who are progressing from the QSF theory, towards Practical course dates and future assessment.
The scheme has been designed to be supportive and have many online facets as well as advising participants to find days out with Guides, such as Saddle Fitters, Saddle Manufacturers, Musculoskeletal practitioners, Farriers or Veterinarians.
These guidance days can be spaced out at your choosing, and the Workbook serves as a guiding document for these days.
If you are enrolled onto the Qualified Saddle Fitters Training Course the Enrolment key for the Guidance Scheme will be provided upon completion of the QSFTC Theory.
Want To Sign Up To The Trainee Saddle Fitters Guidance Scheme But Not Sure If You're Eligible?
Because this scheme isn't open for everybody, we have to check your eligibility first. If you would like us to check, please click HERE and complete the short form.