ASSURED CERTIFICATE IN BRIDLE FITTING COURSE - JANUARY 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 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 3 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 COURSE - Thursday 19th February 2026
Are you aware of how saddle fit can seriously impact the welfare, comfort and performance of your horse?
Are you interested in a career as a saddle fitter?
Or are you an allied equine professional looking for training to complement your existing knowledge?
Maybe you are a horse owner wanting to understand a little more about the complexities of saddle fitting.
Available to all with an interest in learning more about saddle fitting, this course delivers the learning through a mix of online theory* and a one day practical module.
This is a taster into the role of the saddle fitter to:
-
understand how your saddle fitter works.
-
assist you as a para-professional to work alongside saddle fitters.
-
to give you an insight before you embark upon our Qualified Saddle Fitter course.
This course is the Introduction to Saddle Fitting course comprising of online theory learning and a compulsory PRACTICAL MODULE DELIVERED IN THE UK at Moulton College, Northampton on the Thursday 19th February 2026.
If travelling to the UK is not possible, please take a look at our theory only Introduction to Saddle Fitting course HERE
Course Description
Our comprehensive theory is delivered via an interactive online platform allowing the learner to delve into the world of saddles and saddle fitting. You will -- learn how saddles are constructed and how to identify common faults within materials.
- learn how the conformation of the horse can affect saddle selection.
- discover why tree width and design 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 SMS 9-point process of good fit that The Society of Master Saddlers Qualified Saddle Fitters use around the world to enhance saddle fit and welfare of the horse.
*This course consists of approx 6 hours of on-demand theory webinars.
Course Cost
2025 Non Member Rate = £635
2025 Member Rate* = £555
*will be available once you have logged in and confirmed as a member
SADDLE FITTING PRACTICAL APPLICATION COURSE
Have you completed the Qualified Saddle Fitters Course?
Do you want to review and enhance your skills under expert supervision?
Are you preparing for your final assessment and looking for guidance to help you succeed?
If yes, then the SADDLE FITTING PRACTICAL APPLICATION course is for you!
Course Overview
This 2 day practical course held on the 8th & 9th April 2026 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
£795
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.
QUALIFIED SADDLE FITTER TRAINING COURSE - July 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 January 2026 and attend the Practical Dates of 6th - 8th July 2026 in the UK as part of this course.
Nb. Please note that the assessment is not part of the course. If you want 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 Society's 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.
INTRODUCTION TO SADDLE FITTING COURSE - Saturday 1st August 2026
Are you aware of how saddle fit can seriously impact the welfare, comfort and performance of your horse?
Are you interested in a career as a saddle fitter?
Or are you an allied equine professional looking for training to complement your existing knowledge?
Maybe you are a horse owner wanting to understand a little more about the complexities of saddle fitting.
Available to all with an interest in learning more about saddle fitting, this course delivers the learning through a mix of online theory* and a one day practical module.
This is a taster into the role of the saddle fitter to:
-
understand how your saddle fitter works.
-
assist you as a para-professional to work alongside saddle fitters.
-
to give you an insight before you embark upon our Qualified Saddle Fitter course.
This course is the Introduction to Saddle Fitting course comprising of online theory learning and a compulsory PRACTICAL MODULE DELIVERED IN THE UK at Moulton College, Northampton on Saturday 1st August 2026.
If travelling to the UK is not possible, please take a look at our theory only Introduction to Saddle Fitting course HERE
Course Description
Our comprehensive theory is delivered via an interactive online platform allowing the learner to delve into the world of saddles and saddle fitting. You will -- learn how saddles are constructed and how to identify common faults within materials.
- learn how the conformation of the horse can affect saddle selection.
- discover why tree width and design 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 SMS 9-point process of good fit that The Society of Master Saddlers Qualified Saddle Fitters use around the world to enhance saddle fit and welfare of the horse.
*This course consists of approx 6 hours of on-demand theory webinars.
Course Cost
2025 Non Member Rate = £635
2025 Member Rate* = £555
*will be available once you have logged in and confirmed as a member
BRIDLE FIT4WELFARE
A Practical Bridle & Bit Fit Education Day
Sunday 2nd August 2026
Course Description
This one-day, welfare-focused learning day is designed for anyone who wants their horse to be comfortable, confident and well supported in a bridle.
Suitable for horse owners, riders, trainers and equine professionals, BRIDLE FIT4WELFARE provides a clear and accessible introduction to how bridle and bit fit influence comfort, communication and movement.
The day is practical, supportive and pressure-free - with no qualifications, assessments or prior experience required. You will leave with a better understanding of what good fit looks like, what common problems to watch for and how to make informed, welfare-led decisions for you horse.
Course Summary
The course combines essential theory with hand-on practical learning, giving participants a grounded understanding of bridle and bit fit in the ridden horse.
What You’ll Learn:
The course blends essential theory with hands-on practice to give you a clear, grounded understanding of how bridle and bit fit affects the horse’s comfort, communication, and performance.
You will explore:
- How bridle and bit fit influence comfort, posture and movement
- Key anatomical structures affected by bits and bridles
- The relationship between fit, function, communication and welfare
Practical learning includes:
- Identifying common bridle and noseband fitting mistakes
- Recognising signs of poor bit fit and knowing when to seek specialist support
- Assessing bits and bridles for faults, wear and safety issues
- Learning how small changes can make a meaningful difference to comfort
This course is ideal whether you are deepening your knowledge as a horse owner or refreshing your understanding as a professional.
Course Details
Date: Sunday 2nd August 2026
Location: Moulton Equestrian Centre, Moulton College, Northamptonshire
Duration: One day (6+ hours of learning)
Certificates: A Certificate of Attendance is provided. This may be used as evidence of professional development where applicable.
Course Cost:
Society Members - £230
Non-members - £250
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 - 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.
ASSURED CERTIFICATE IN BRIDLE FITTING COURSE - JANUARY 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 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. 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 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 Aug '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.
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. 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 SMS 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 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. Accommodation not included.
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 Society's 9-point process of good fit that is used by Society of Master Saddlers 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.
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.