INTRODUCTION TO SADDLE FITTING - OS THEORY

This theory only course is available to non-UK residents only and is for those interested in learning more about saddle fitting.

If you are a UK resident or wish to enrol on the full Introduction to Saddle Fitting course please click HERE

Course Description

Delve into the world of saddles and learn how saddles are constructed and how to identify common faults within materials.

Identify how conformation of the horse can affect saddle selection and discover why tree width is fundamental to a correctly fitting saddle.

Understand how rider requirements for the saddle and their influence can impact the fit of the saddle.

Begin to develop an understanding of the Gold standard SMS 9-point process of good fit that is used by SMS Qualified Saddle Fitters around the world enhances saddle fit and welfare of the horse.

Comprehensive theory delivered via an interactive online platform allowing self-paced learning.

Course Duration

This course consists of approx 6 hours of on-demand theory webinars available from 1st February 2025 

ASSURED CERTIFICATE IN BRIDLE FITTING INCLUDING MEASURING AND BITTING - JANUARY 2025

Course Description

This comprehensive Bridle and Bit Fitting Qualification, begining on 6th January 2025, is open to all wanting to become a Qualified Bridle Fitter. 

Upon successful completion of all stages, you will be eligible for assessment. Once you have passed all assessment units, you will be awarded the City & Guilds Assured Certificate in Bridle Fitting, including Measuring and Bitting (Qualified by The Society of Master Saddlers). 

This course consists of comprehensive theory sections delivered via an interactive online platform in stages.  Each stage is open for a limited duration and allows you to work at your pace within the time constraints.

As part of your training, you will be required to attend hands-on practical sessions at the end of Stage 2 and Stage 3 in the UK.

You will be assessed when you complete all elements of each stage.  The assessment comprises a written paper, submitted videos, and on-site practical assessments. 

All course fees and assessments 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 August '25)

• 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 May '26)

• 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.
  

Course Duration

This course is expected to take approximately 18 months to complete

Member Benefits & Becoming a SMS Registered Qualified Bridle Fitter (SMS RQBF) 

Member Benefits include:

• Use of the relevant SMS Logo to show you are a member and have the support and backing of an independent association.
  

• Listing on the SMS 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 SMS Registered Qualified Bridle Fitter (SMS RQBF).

*Only the first assessment is included in the initial fee.  Any additional assessments will require an extra charge.

ASSURED CERTIFICATE IN BRIDLE FITTING INCLUDING MEASURING AND BITTING - SEPTEMBER 2024

*** ENROLMENT CLOSED.  TO ENROL ON OUR NEXT ACBF COURSE CLICK HERE ***

Course Description

This comprehensive Bridle and Bit Fitting Qualification is open to all wanting to become a Qualified Bridle Fitter. 

Upon successful completion of all stages, you will be eligible for assessment. Once you have passed all assessment units, you will be awarded the City & Guilds Assured Certificate in Bridle Fitting, including Measuring and Bitting (Qualified by The Society of Master Saddlers). 

This course consists of comprehensive theory sections delivered via an interactive online platform in stages.  Each stage is open for a limited duration and allows you to work at your pace within the time constraints.

As part of your training, you will be required to attend hands-on practical sessions at the end of Stage 2 and Stage 3 in the UK.

You will be assessed when you complete all elements of each stage.  The assessment comprises a written paper, submitted videos, and on-site practical assessments. 

All course fees and assessments 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 May '25)

• 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 '26)

• 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.
  

Course Duration

This course is expected to take approximately 18 months to complete

Member Benefits & Becoming a SMS Registered Qualified Bridle Fitter (SMS RQBF) 

Member Benefits include:

• Use of the relevant SMS Logo to show you are a member and have the support and backing of an independent association.
  

• Listing on the SMS 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 SMS Registered Qualified Bridle Fitter (SMS RQBF).

*Only the first assessment is included in the initial fee.  Any additional assessments will require an extra charge.

INTRODUCTION TO SADDLE FITTING COURSE - 17th APRIL 2025 

QUALIFIED SADDLE FITTER TRAINING COURSE - JUNE/JULY 2025

Qualification

Duration

Study Mode

Course Overview

Course Cost (from Jan 1st '25)

Entry Requirements

SADDLE FITTING PRACTICAL APPLICATION COURSE

Course Overview

This 2 day practical course held on the 14th & 15th April 2025 at Moulton College, Northampton is designed for those who have completed the Qualified Saddle Fitters course and are looking to enhance the skills learnt prior to assessment. 

Limited numbers ensure you have dedicated attention from the course lecturers. 

On the course you will revisit and enhance your skills in: 

• Static saddle fit. 
  

• Dynamic saddle fit. 
  

• Full saddle fittings from start to finish. 
  

• Interpreting templates. 
  

• Changing gullet bars. 
  

• Using saddles from different manufacturers. 
  

• Girthing options to help achieve best fit. 
  

• Enhanced shimming protocols to guide alternations. 
  

Course Costs

£745* 

*If Booked before 31st December 2024. 
 

Want To Sign Up To The Saddle Fitting Practical Application Course 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.

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.