Making and repairing horse saddles.
Occupational Profile
Set within an industry steeped in tradition, the Saddlery trade supports the pursuit of excellence in its traditional craft skills whilst also embracing innovation and technology. The Bespoke Saddler is a fundamental occupational role in the saddlery trade and is an integral part of an industry that contributes over £8bn to the British economy. Bespoke Saddler is a broad description of someone who produces Saddles or Bridles and provides a comprehensive repair service to saddles and other equestrian equipment. All will be capable of producing a standard or bespoke product that is cut and made to a unique pattern or measurement for a horse.
Many of the skills are carried out by hand in order to produce an item that fits precisely to a customer’s requirements. Hand crafted products form the heart of the British Saddlery industry and have an international and iconic reputation.
Bespoke Saddlers have practical skills in the manufacture of equestrian products including measurement and pattern construction. The skills involved in Bespoke Saddlery cover a wide area of expertise that includes craft, technical, creative and design. These skills are fundamental to the Bespoke Saddlery industry and ultimately have to be employed with great precision, to high standards of excellence and within realistic time constraints.
Upon completion of this standard the apprentice will be competent in both Saddle and Bridle making.
Summary of standard
https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/bespoke-saddler/
Full standard
https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/media/1227/bespoke_saddler.pdf
