At The Society of Master Saddlers, we recognise that becoming an effective and skilled saddle fitter requires time; hence, our training pathway spans a minimum of 18 months.
Our courses, assured by City and Guilds, offer a comprehensive blend of theoretical and practical learning. This ensures that you are well-prepared for the journey from trainee to qualification, with some elements being compulsory and others optional, forming a flexible pathway that can be fitted around your regular work.
How To Train
Step 1:
The first step to becoming a Qualified Saddle Fitter registered with The Society of Master Saddlers is to familiarise yourself with the Saddle Fitting Pathway.
If you have no prior experience of saddle fitting, e.g. you have not received any formal training elsewhere, then we recommend that you enrol onto the Introduction to Saddle Fitting course. This hybrid course comprises a theory module delivered online and a one-day practical module delivered at leading equestrian colleges and universities in the UK.
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Step 2:
After completing the Introduction to Saddle Fitting course, you can register as a Trainee Saddle Fitter with The Society of Master Saddlers.
You will be required to have valid public and product liability insurance or work for an employer with the relevant insurance. Once you are a member, you can benefit from our professional indemnity insurance, legal helpline, and course discounts and become part of our saddlery community. You may also be eligible to be listed on the Equine Fitters Directory.
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Step 3:
Once registered with The Society, you can sign up for the complimentary Trainee Saddle Fitters Support Scheme.
Part 1: The ISF-QSF Bridging Scheme is designed to guide you through the learning process outside of your course attendance, offering support prior to the Qualified Saddle Fitters Training Course.
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Step 4:
The Qualified Saddle Fitters Training Course is a comprehensive and extensive program that looks at all aspects of saddle fitting. The theory module is comprised of webinars and presentations from world-renowned equestrian lecturers and experts. Topics covered include anatomy, saddle design and manufacture, rider requirements and much, much more.
If you have previous saddle fitting training with a recognised saddle fitting training provider, you can jump on the pathway at this point. Due to the intensity of this course, we will require evidence of prior learning. The cost includes both the theory and practical modules.
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Step 5:
Once you are signed up for the Qualified Saddle Fitters Training Course, you might wish to begin the second part of the Trainee Saddle Fitters Support Scheme.
Part 2: The Guidance Scheme encourages you to work alongside other equine allied professionals, such as veterinarians and equine therapists, to learn new skills and expand your knowledge. It also helps nurture relationships with those professionals, supporting Multi-Disciplinary Teamwork.
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Step 6:
The Society of Master Saddlers recognises that an essential skill required by saddle fitters is knowing how and when to flock a saddle. Our City and Guilds Assured Certificate in Flocking and Flocking Adjustments can be achieved by studying at one of our external partnered providers and is a unit of the City and Guilds Assured Certificate in Saddle Fitting. Although this is the point within the pathway that we recommend you take this, it can be undertaken at any point before sitting the saddle fitting assessment.
You should attend a practical course at one of these centres in preparation for the assessment, which will be carried out by one of our experienced Society of Master Saddlers assessors.
Click HERE to find out more about our external providers.
Step 7:
Now it is time to attend the practical module of the Qualified Saddle Fitters Training Course. This intensive three-day course will provide you with the opportunity to get hands on with saddles and horses. Delivered by our team of expert lecturers, you will receive tuition which draws on years of experience in all areas of saddle fitting.
Step 8:
Once you have completed the Qualified Saddle Fitters Training Course and before the assessment, you might like to refine your skills or sit a mock assessment to boost your confidence. The Saddle Fitting Practical Application Course is an optional two-day course designed to do just this.
With tuition and guidance from several lecturers, each with vast knowledge and experience, you will be prepared for the saddle fitting assessment. This course is a great opportunity to practice your skills in a controlled environment and receive feedback from experienced professionals.
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Step 9:
The City and Guilds Assured Certificate in Saddle Fitting assessment can be sat after the Saddle Fitting Practical Application Course or the Qualified Saddle Fitters Training Course if you have utilised the Trainee Saddle Fitters Support Schemes.
Spaces are allocated on experience and evidence of preparation, ensuring you have the best possible chance of success. You will need to pass all five assessment units to be awarded the City and Guilds Assured Certificate in Saddle Fitting.
Step 10:
Finally, once you have successfully completed the saddle fitting assessment, you will be eligible to upgrade to a Registered Qualified Saddle Fitter with The Society of Master Saddlers.
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