Saddle Fitting Training

If you have no previous saddle fitting training, it is recommended that you complete the Introduction to Saddle Fitting Course.  This will deliver an understanding of The Society's recommended fitting procedures used by our RQSFs worldwide which prioritises and enhances the welfare of the ridden horse.

The complexities of saddle fitting are explained with modules amongst others on tree width , conformation and rider requirements. Click the Intro graphic to the left to find out more

On completion of the Introduction to Saddle Fitting you can register as a Trainee Saddle Fitter.  You will need to hold public and product liability insurance or be employed by a member who holds the relevant insurances.  As a member in the UK you will benefit from professional indemnity insurance, a legal helpline and course discounts.

The Society has a great community of saddlery professionals who are generous with their support and we would encourage Trainee members to join the closed Facebook Group to be part of that community.

Click on the graphic to apply for membership

On becoming a Trainee member you are eligible to sign up to the Trainee Saddle Fitters Support Scheme.  There are two parts to this Scheme which is provided FREE of charge once you are a registered member, the first one is the ISF-QSF Bridging Scheme which is designed to offer support prior to the Qualified Saddle Fitters Training Course.

The City & Guilds Assured Certificate in Saddle Fitting( Qualified by The Society of Master Saddlers) is the qualification the Qualified course works towards.  It is a prestigious qualification which follows the Qualified Saddle Fitters Training Course which delivers all aspects required to attain the qualification.  All theory modules comprising of saddle design and manufacture, anatomy, biomechanics and rider requirements are delivered on our virtual learning platform by renowned equestrian lecturers and experts where you can work at your own pace.  The three day practical sessions are delivered at an equestrian facility in the UK.  Both practical and theory modules must be completed before sitting the Assured Certificate assessments.

Previous saddle fitting training with a recognised saddle fitting training provider can give you access to our pathway at this point on evidence of prior learning.  Both practical and theory elements are included in the price of the course.  More detail can be found by clicking the graphic on the left.

On enrolling on the QSF Training Course it is advised that you start The Guidance Scheme which is the second part of the Trainee Saddle Fitters Support Scheme.  This encourages you to work with allied equine professionals such as Vets and Muscular Skeletal Practitioners  to expand your knowledge.  It is also helpful in forging relationships to support a multi disciplinary team.

Flocking and flocking adjustments is an essential skill of saddle fitters. Our City & Guilds Assured Certificate in Flocking and Flocking Adjustments can be achieved through one of our external partnered providers who are all Master Saddlers registered with The Society.  This is a compulsory unit in the Assured Certificate in Saddle Fitting and although we recommend that it is completed at this point in the pathway, it can be taken at any point prior to the saddle fitting assessment.

To find a flocking course provider and register for the course and assessment click on the graphic to the left.

If you have trained or have gained flocking experience elsewhere and believe yourself competent in the necessary skills to sit The Society of Master Saddlers Flocking Assessment, please complete the form linked here.

Once one our assessing team have reviewed your information, we will be in touch.
N.B. We will require you to submit proof of any relevant qualifications gained.  

 

The intensive three day practical course provides the opportunity to be hands on with saddles and horses.  Our team of experienced lecturers deliver an unrivalled experience which draws on over 100 years of saddle fitting experience between them.

The Saddle Fitting Practical Application Course offers an optional two day course to refine the skills you have learnt and sit a mock assessment to boost your confidence.  Receiving feedback before assessment is invaluable with further tuition and guidance from several lecturers sets candidates up for assessment perfectly.  There are limited places available on this course to ensure dedicated attention from lecturers so booking early is essential to secure your place and not delay your assessment date.  Attendees of the Practical Application Course are given priority for assessment dates.

For more information click the graphic.

This stage is when the assessment is sat after completing the Saddle Fitting Practical Application Course or utilising the Trainee Saddle Fitters Support Schemes alongside the Qualified Saddle Fitters Training Course.  Allocated assessments are given on evidence of preparation to ensure the best chance of a successful outcome.  All five assessment units need to achieve passes to be awarded the City & Guilds Assured Certificate in Saddle Fitting.

On successful completion of the Saddle Fitting Assessment you will be able to upgrade to a Registered Qualified Saddle Fitter with The Society of Master Saddlers.  It is a great community to be part of and a rewarding career choice where saddle fitters contribute to the welfare of the ridden horse through their knowledge.  Annual evidenced CPD is a compulsory element of remaining on the register and every year the Society delivers a Saddle Fitter's Development Day as part of the RQSF membership.

We look forward to welcoming you on our next course.