A COURSE at Northumbria University is aiming to merge a love of horses with the skills of teaching others.

The course, which is believed to be unique in the country, hopes to reach out to many young people who would not normally consider studying for a degree.

The BA (Hons) in equestrian and teaching studies (with assistant instructor status), will run in conjunction with the equestrian units of East Durham and Houghall Community College and Northumberland College at Kirkley Hall. It will have its first intake of students next September.

Course leader Pam Graham said: "This course is about making the link between industry and education.

"It's an attempt to enhance the instructor's professional status by providing students with the theoretical knowledge that teachers have.

"It also fits in well with the Government's drive to reach out to non-traditional students by attracting students with a love of horses who, in many cases, might leave school at 16 to work with horses. This course gives them another option".

Throughout the course students will have the opportunity to develop their understanding of the needs of a variety of horse riders, including those who are disabled, and will become expert practitioners, skilled in all areas of education within the context of the equine world.

On successful completion of the course, students can either opt to progress through the British Horse Society exams to gain instructor status or embark on other post-graduate courses