The Advanced Diploma in Farriery and Animal Care provides learners with an integrated programme that combines professional farriery training with a broad and applied foundation in animal care, husbandry and rural studies.

The farriery component develops learners’ competence in hoof care, trimming, balance, forging and applied shoeing, underpinned by a strong understanding of equine anatomy, biomechanics, gait and hoof health. Learners are introduced to

both hot and cold shoeing techniques, shoe design and modification, and the recognition of hoof and limb conditions relevant to farriery practice, with emphasis on welfare, safety and professional standards.

To complement farriery, the animal care component provides learners with a solid grounding in veterinary nursing and animal care, animal anatomy and physiology, animal nutrition, and horse husbandry, enabling them to understand animal health,

behaviour and daily management across a range of settings. The programme also develops essential employability skills, preparing learners for effective communication, digital competence and workplace readiness. Learning is reinforced through extensive practical sessions and work-based learning, ensuring that graduates gain real-world experience and confidence in professional environments.

By the end of the course, learners will have acquired a balanced combination of technical farriery skills, animal care knowledge, and transferable competencies, enabling them to contribute responsibly and effectively to the equine and animal

care industries, pursue employment or continue their studies in related vocational or professional pathways.

• Farrier,
• Stable Assistant Manager,
• Animal Care Worker,
• Animal Sanctuary Warden

Internal Progression Route….

• Any MCAST MQF Level 3 Diploma

OR

4 subjects at SEC / SSC&P / SSQP, or equivalent, with a Pass Grade / Level 3

An Applicant aged 21 years and over, and not in possession of the above Entry Requirements, may wish to apply via the Maturity Clause route.  Applicants under Maturity Clause must still present clear documentation showing that they have a number of achievements in hand together with their School Leaving formal Certificate / document (to confirm their successful completion of compulsory schooling).  Age is not the only eligibility factor in such instances.  Besides documents showing their past achievements, applicants must present a detailed CV using the Europass format, as well as the most recent official JobsPlus Employment History.

Further important information can be found under the respective Admissions FAQ https://mcast.edu.mt/maturity-clause/.