CAFRE Equine students treading new waters
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College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) Equine students had the opportunity to deepen their understanding of equine fitness and rehabilitation during an educational visit to Glebe Equine, Hillsborough.
The second year students studying on the Level 3 Advanced Technical Extended Diploma in Equine Management course at Enniskillen Campus enjoyed a day exploring the specialist facilities. Ella Boyle and her team offered students an insight into advanced therapeutic modalities used to support equine injury recovery and performance.
A highlight of the day was the demonstration of the ECB water treadmill, a key tool in low-impact conditioning and rehabilitation for horses recovering from musculoskeletal injuries. Students observed how hydrotherapy can also aid in improving joint mobility, posture, flexibility and muscle strength in a safe and controlled environment.
Alongside the water treadmill, students were introduced to a range of innovative rehabilitation tools including InstantCryo, which helps reduce pain and inflammation, and the Combi Floor, a system that combines controlled vibration with pulsed electromagnetic field therapy to improve circulation, accelerating recovery and overall well-being of the horse.
The visit also highlighted the importance of a holistic approach to rehabilitation. Ella and her team discussed how vets, farriers, and physiotherapists work together to create tailored recovery plans, reinforcing the value of teamwork and integrated care in equine health.
The visit was part of the students’ ongoing studies in equine health and performance, providing valuable real-world context to classroom learning. Staff at Glebe Equine Rehab Centre were praised for their informative sessions and for highlighting the importance of evidence-based practice in equine therapy.
If you are thinking about studying for a qualification in equine, applications are being accepted for 2026 entry. Study after GCSE or equivalent qualifications on a Level 2 or Level 3 course, and after A-Level or equivalent qualifications for a Foundation or BSc (Hons) Degree, validated by Ulster University. For more information on courses visit the CAFRE website.
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