British Army - Farrier - Full Time Career with Apprenticeship

A Military Level 3 Farrier apprentice in the Royal Army Veterinary Corps is responsible for the care and maintenance of military working horses, primarily within the Household Cavalry and The King's troop Royal Artillery.  Daily tasks typically include:

Shoeing Horses - Assessing, fitting and replacing horsehoes to ensure optimal hoof health and performance. Hoof Care and Maintenance - Trimming, balancing and treating hooves to prevent injury or lameness. Emergency Hoof Treatment - Addressing hoof injuries or defects that could impact operational readiness. Forge Work - Working in the forge to shape and manufacture horseshoes. Stable & Veterninary Support - Assisting veterinary staff with hoof related health issues and general horse welfare. Training & Development - Continuing professional development in farriery skills and mentoring junior personnel. Military Duties - Participating in ceremonial events, exercises and general military taskings.

Training:

An RAVC soldier training to become a Farrier will follow these steps:

Step 1 - Army Initial Training.
Under 17 years, 5 months: Attend the Army Foundation College (AFC) Harrogate for a 49 week junior entry course.

Over 17 years, 5 months: Complete 14 weeks at Army training Centre (ATC) Pirbright or Winchester for standard basic training.

Training covers military discipline, fitness, fieldcraft, weapons handling and teamwork.

Step 2: Phase 2 - RAVC Trade Training

The individual will report to the Defence Animal Training Regiment (DATR) in Melton Mowbray to begin RAVC specific training.

Step 3: Farrier Apprenticeship Training (Level 3): Selected soldiers will begin their Farrier Apprenticeship at the King's troop Royal Horse Artillery (Woolwich) or Household Cavalry (London/Windsor).

Training includes forging, horseshoeing, hood care, anatomy and blacksmithing.

Complete an intensive four year apprenticeship, working under Master Farriers.

Step 4: Earn a Level 3 Farrier qualification and register with the Worshipful Company of Farriers.

Training Outcome:

The apprenticeship is a gateway to a full-time career in the British Army. Promotion, along with increased salary and responsibility is dependent on successful completion of the apprenticeship and then on merit by competitive selection. As you advance through the ranks, you will have the increased opportunity to lead and direct people, managing resources and workforce within your area of work to deliver the required outputs whilst maintaining and instilling the highest values and standards expected of the British Army. You belong here.

Employer Description:
Protecting the nation and its dependent territories will always be the British Army's first role. Highly trained soldiers are ready to deploy anywhere at any time to meet a variety of challenges, ranging from support to the Police following a terrorist attack, to specialist capabilities such as bomb disposal and intelligence experts, 24 hours a day 365 days a year, we are always ready to serve. You belong here.

Working Hours :
Shift and working patterns may vary. Working locations will vary nationally depending on the apprenticeship and working requirements. Days and times to be confirmed.

Skills:
Communication skills,Attention to detail,Organisation skills,Customer care skills,Problem solving skills,Presentation skills,Analytical skills,Logical,Team working,Initiative,Physical fitness